Statement on a case of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in a passenger from the Grand Princess

OTTAWA, March 11, 2020 /CNW/ - The Public Health Agency of Canada today announced a positive case of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in a Canadian who was repatriated to Canada from the Grand Princess cruise ship.

The case was identified during the initial screening and medical assessments conducted when the passengers arrived at the Canadian Forces Base in Trenton, Ontario, where they will complete a 14-day quarantine. Only passengers who did not have symptoms of COVID-19 upon boarding were permitted to return to Canada on the flight chartered by the Government of Canada.

Upon medical assessment at Trenton, one passenger recorded a mild fever and a cough, and a laboratory test confirmed COVID-19. The individual is in isolation at the facility, and regular follow-ups and assessments are being conducted.

To respect privacy, no further details on the individual can be disclosed.

All infection prevention and control protocols were followed in processing the travellers returning from the Grand Princess. We are providing care and support to this case and all Canadians in quarantine.

Cruise ship outbreaks of COVID-19 can occur because of the close contact between passengers. While the majority of affected passengers may experience mild symptoms, older people and people with a weakened immune system or underlying medical condition are at a higher risk of developing severe disease.

The Goverment of Canada, the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, the Canadian Red Cross, and Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health are working together to ensure that all necessary infection prevention and control protocols are being taken to prevent the spread of infection.

The early detection of this case and the rapid response taken by all authorities involved demonstrate that our public health and emergency response systems are working.

For the latest information, please visit Canada.ca/coronavirus.

SOURCE Public Health Agency of Canada

Media Relations, Public Health Agency of Canada, 613-957-2983