A man in his 50s has been given some great news after being identified as Chatham-Kent's first confirmed case of COVID-19.
Officials with the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit said the individual has made a full recovery. He was tested for the novel coronavirus after he developed symptoms following a cruise.
“He has done wonderfully," said Dr. David Colby, Chatham-Kent’s medical officer of health. "He has satisfied every quarantine measure that was put in place to prevent the spread of the infection.”
Although the man in his 50s returned home before the federal government invoked the Quarantine Act, Colby said the former patient cooperated with health officials throughout the entire process.
“When positive cases are confirmed, we work with the patient to conduct contact tracing, as well as those close to them to ensure they are absolutely clear on the measures in place to protect themselves and others," said Colby. "It was very obvious that this patient, in particular, was very committed to doing anything and everything asked of him.”
There are five more confirmed cases in Chatham-Kent that are still in isolation.
The total number of confirmed cases in Ontario since the outbreak started is at 1,706, which includes 23 COVID-19 related deaths and 431 resolved cases.
Residents who believe they may be experiencing COVID-19 symptoms can call Telehealth or use an online assessment tool. Residents with questions can also call CK Public Health’s COVID-19 intake line at (519) 355-1071 ext. 1900 or email covid19@chatham-kent.ca. Additional information can also be found on the CK Public Health website.