The fifth and sixth cases of COVID-19 recorded in Sudbury area are young men who had contact with others suffering from the virus.

Dr. Penny Sutcliffe, Sudbury & Districts Medical Officer of Health, reported the findings Wednesday.

The fifth case is a male in his 20s while the sixth case is a male in his 30s, she said in a release.

Both are close contacts of confirmed cases elsewhere in Ontario. Both individuals were assessed and tested at Health Sciences North’s COVID-19 Assessment Centre on March 21. Following testing, they were discharged to their respective homes to begin self-isolation, where they remain, the health unit said.

“Everyone must practise social distancing (physical distancing) to reduce the chances of the virus spreading from person to person, and to protect our health care system and vulnerable populations,” Sutcliffe said. “We have to assume that this virus is circulating locally and everyone is asked to stay home unless essential to do otherwise and to keep two metres apart when you must go out.”

Returning travellers are also reminded that they must self-isolate for 14 days from their return to Canada. These individuals must go home and stay home and ensure essential errands or shopping is done by others.

That brings to at least 12 the number of COVID-19 cases so far in northeastern Ontario, including one in the Sault Ste. Marie area, four in Timmins and one West Nipissing OPP officer. All of the cases has been recorded since March 21.

Meanwhile, Health Sciences North said Wednesday it is continuing to focus on conserving personal protective equipment.

“After reviewing the current supply of PPE following recent conservation measures, HSN is returning to providing only urgent and emergency procedures,” the hospital said in a release to the media.

“Impacted patients are being contacted by HSN and do not need to call the hospital. Elective and non-urgent procedures remain cancelled until further notice.”

The hospital has also decided now to delay procedures, where it is safe to do so, for patients who have travelled internationally within 14 days, even if they are asymptomatic of COVID-19.

Meanwhile a COVID-19 Support Fund has been set up in response to a significant number of community members wanting to support the hospital’s operations during the coronavirus outbreak.

Donations to the fund will help purchase equipment and supplies to support front-line staff and patients. Anyone looking to donate can visit hsnf.akaraisin.com/COVID19.

HSN continues to be in touch with businesses, industry and community partners to see if they have additional personal protective equipment such as N95 masks, gloves, gowns and goggles that can be donated. Organizations looking to donate supplies to HSN can email ppesupplies@hsnsudbury.ca.

There are still no admitted patients at HSN who have tested positive for COVID-19.

sud.editorial@sunmedia.ca