In a sad development in the fight against the spread of COVID-19 in Mississauga, Village of Erin Meadows long-term care home is reporting the death of three residents due to the virus.

While not releasing the gender and ages of the deceased, Schlegel Villages — which operates the nursing home — confirmed 12 cases among residents and seven among staff in addition to the three deaths.

“There have been three deaths in the long-term care side of the Village. We are working closely with Public Health in terms of increased testing and the team there, as in all of our Villages, is following strict infection control protocols,” said a Schlegel Villages media spokesperson in an email response.

On April 7, Schlegel Villages reported three staff members and five residents infected with coronavirus at Village of Erin Meadows and an additional three staff members testing positive at its Erin Mills Lodge Mississauga location.

As of Monday (April 13), that number had grown to 19 resident and staff cases at Village of Erin Meadows, located at 2930 Erin Centre Blvd. and at least 11 at Erin Mills Lodge (2132 Dundas St W.).

“This is a tragedy," said Mayor Bonnie Crombie is an emailed statement. "It’s always incredibly sad when anyone in our community contracts COVID-19, particularly our seniors who are among the most susceptible.

"My heart goes out to the families and friends of those who have passed and those who are still fighting.

“I want to thank all of the doctors, nurses and personal support workers in our long-term care facilities for their courage and bravery. This fight wouldn’t be possible without them.

"I have every confidence in their ability to work with Peel Public Health to contain these outbreaks and keep our seniors safe.”

Schlegel Villages added it is taking several measures in its efforts to contain the spread: