A man in his 70s who returned from travelling abroad is now the fourth confirmed case of COVID-19 in the Porcupine Health Unit (PHU) region.

The individual travelled on both international and domestic flights and the health unit has issued an advisory to those who may have had close contact with him.

“Anyone who sat in the rows identified below should self-isolate for 14 days and monitor for any symptoms (cough, fever and/or shortness of breath),” Dr. Lianne Catton, PHU’s medical officer of health, stated in a release. “If you have any symptoms, please stay home, and call the PHU or your primary care provider.”

• March 12, 2020: Houston into Toronto Pearson International Airport on Air Canada flight AC594. Passengers in rows 20-24 and flight crew that may have served these rows are considered close contacts of the confirmed case. These individuals are directed to self-isolate for 14 days from their arrival in Canada, and contact their local public health authority if any symptoms;

• March 12, 2020: Toronto Pearson International Airport to Timmins on Air Canada, flight AC8291. Passengers in rows 5-9 and flight crew that may have served these rows are considered close contacts of the confirmed case and are directed to self-isolate for 14 days and contact the Porcupine Health Unit if any symptoms.

The individual was assessed and tested at the Timmins COVID-19 Assessment Centre on March 20, the release stated.

“Staff took all necessary precautions for infection control, testing, and assessment. The individual followed the directions of public health and remains in self-isolation at home, with monitoring by the PHU. The PHU conducts a thorough case investigation to help identify anyone who may be a close contact. If you are considered a close contact of this or any case, you will receive a call from the PHU.”

Catton added, “Seeing a travel-related case in our community is an important reminder that it is critical for every individual who has travelled outside of Canada to self-isolate for 14 days to reduce the spread of COVID-19.”

She said the evolving nature of COVID-19 requires immediate attention.

“We urge each and every community member to practice social distancing by keeping a minimum of two metres between themselves and others; stay home, and limit potential exposure to COVID-19. Social distancing is key – we need to work together to reduce the opportunity for the virus to spread from person to person and to protect our vulnerable community members.”