Peterborough has its first confirmed case of COVID-19.

Peterborough Public Health reported Sunday that a man in his 30s went to Peterborough Regional Health Centre Thursday after travelling to Spain and Portugal.

The patient had fever, dry cough and a headache. He was tested for the coronavirus and sent home to self-isolate.

Health officials are tracing his travels and contact with other people. The risk to local residents remains low, Peterborough Public Health states.

"Having a confirmed case in our area is not unexpected given the transmission of this virus around the world," states Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, medical officer of health, in a release. "As a community and as a health system, we have been preparing for COVID-19. Hopefully this news about the first local case helps reinforce the importance of public health measures in place such as school closures and event cancellations, as well as personal precautions like social distancing and regular handwashing."

"The team at PRHC responded quickly and professionally with the appropriate precautions and protocols to ensure the safety of those in the emergency department and the hospital," stated Dr. Lynn Mikula, chief of staff and chief medical officer at PRHC.

Patients and visitors will see changes starting Monday, she continued. This will include additional screening, limited entries and exits and restrictions for visitors. Mikula urged people to avoid coming to the hospital for non-urgent reasons.

Symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe and include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Complications can include pneumonia or kidney failure, and in some cases, death.

Peterborough Public Health urges anyone who suspects they may have symptoms of COVID-19 and have recently travelled to call 705-743-1000, ext. 401 or email covid19@peterboroughpublichealth.ca Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., or Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For medical advice after these hours, contact Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 (TTY 1-866-797-0007).