Public Health Sudbury & Districts has confirmed a second death related to COVID-19. 

Dr. Penny Sutcliffe, chief medical officer of health for the region, made the announcement this afternoon. 

The woman, who was in her 80s, tested positive on April 21 for COVID-19 as part of the outbreak declared at St. Joseph’s Villa. Out of respect during this difficult time, the health unit said no further details will be provided.

“On behalf of all of our staff, I want to extend our sincere condolences to the family,” said Jo-Anne Palkovits, president and CEO of St. Joseph’s Health Centre (SJHC). “I also want to acknowledge the efforts of our staff, who themselves are devastated by this news. 

“We continue to follow all necessary policies and procedures to provide safe care to our residents. Our community needs to continue to be kind and supportive to one another during these difficult times, while also ensuring we follow the advice of public health officials.”

Sutcliffe also extended condolences on behalf of Public Health Sudbury, while encouraging people to look out for one another and be safe.

“We have to continue to do all that we can to prevent the spread of disease to protect older members in our community. I encourage people to reach out, check in, and be there for one another, while maintaining physical distance,” said Sutcliffe.

Since mid-March, St. Joseph’s Villa, like other LTC centres, has imposed strict physical distancing guidelines. It also continues to isolate residents from one another in their own private rooms to prevent the spread of infection. 

Again, as in other LTCs centres, residents are assessed for COVID-related symptoms three times a day. 

“Staff continue to wear the proper masks for the duration of their shift, and also wear eye protection, gloves, and gowns for direct care with all residents,” St. Joseph’s Villa said in a statement. “Staff are also screened for symptoms at the beginning and end of each shift. With these measures, along with visitor restrictions in effect since mid-March, risk of infection throughout the facility remains low.”