Yukon reports 1st COVID-19-related death, in Watson Lake

Yukon is reporting its first COVID-19-related death.

A person from Watson Lake died on Thursday, said Yukon's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Brendan Hanleyat a news conference on Friday.

Hanleysaid the individual was "older" and had "significant underlying medical conditions."

He said the person died at home, "unexpectedly but peacefully."

The territory has seen a recent cluster of five cases in the rural community ofWatson Lake, with an unknown source of infection.

"This is a very sad day for Yukon, one that I had hoped we would not see," said Hanley.

"Weare just as susceptible here to COVID as we are anywhere else."

Watch Friday's news conference here:

Hanleywould not release details about the deceased person, saying confidentiality is importantgiven Yukon's small population.

This is the first reported death related to COVID-19 in the North.

"Today I mourn with Watson Lake and with all of you," said Hanley.

He said a COVID-19 patient's status can change quickly, often in the second week of the illness. He said that the person had daily check-ins from physicians, and things would not have been different if the person had beenin hospital.

"Sometimes things happen suddenly," said Hanley.

Hanley said people need to "redouble our efforts toprotect our elders and more vulnerable citizens."

Hanleysaid the territory seems like it's been successful in containing the Watson Lake outbreak.He said that 53 people have been tested in the townso far. Watson Lake has a population of roughly 800 people.

Hanleysaid the other Watson Lake cases are doing well at home, withdaily check-ins.

The risk of COVID-19 has not changed in Watson Lake or elsewhere in Yukon, said a government statement.

Hanley asked people to respect mask policies in local establishments, and wear a mask "if in doubt."

Yukon has reported a total of 23 cases since the pandemic began, with 17 people considered recovered.

Yukon reported its most recent case in Whitehorse on Thursday, which was not linked to the Watson Lake cases. The new case is linked to two travel-related cases previously reported in Whitehorse, according to a government statement. Health officials say the person was already self-isolating andthere is no risk to the public.

At his news conference Friday, Hanleysaid Yukonerscan still go out andtrick-or-treat this weekend with precautions, but he urged people to gather only with their social bubble.

Condolences from premier

Premier Sandy Silver expressed condolences in a statement Friday afternoon.

"I am very saddened by this loss and I send my condolences to the friends and family of the deceased. On behalf of all Yukoners, I also send support and love to the entire community of Watson Lake at this difficult time," the statement reads.

The premier thanked people for their efforts to containCOVID-19, and asked people to stay vigilant.

"Let us stand together to support our fellow Yukoners as they mourn their loved one and share our strength with them at this time," he said.