SARS death reported

NEWMARKET –Dr. Hanif Kassam, York Region’s Associate Medical Officer of Health, confirms that a York Region resident died June 29, 2003, of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The woman was a health care worker who developed probable SARS. With respect to the family, other details of the resident will not be released.

"This is very sad news," commented Dr. Kassam. "Our thoughts go to the deceased person's family and friends."

"Residents can be assured that Health Services continues to work hard to prevent the spread of SARS," added Dr. Kassam. "Protecting the health and safety of the public is our number one priority."

This is the eighth SARS-related death in York Region since the outbreak began March 15^th, with four York Region residents who died in Toronto, two Toronto residents who died in York Region and two York Region residents who died in York Region.

For more information about SARS or any other health-related topic contact York Region Health Services Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653.

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Contact: York Region Corporate Communications Services

• (905) 830-4444 Ext. 1234

Please note:

In respect to the privacy of the family, Dr. Hanif Kassam will not be responding to media inquiries about this release.