A fully vaccinated woman in her 90s died from COVID-19 while living at a long-term care facility in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, according to the Region of Waterloo. This is the region’s first report of someone who had received both vaccine doses dying from COVID-19.
The Village of Winston Park currently has a COVID-19 outbreak with three other residents reportedly testing positive for COVID-19 as of June 18. Currently, there is no report on whether a variant of concern was involved.
“This person’s death is a tragic reminder of the toll the COVID-19 pandemic is taking on families and the community,” said Associate Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Rabia Bana.
“Death is a very rare outcome in fully immunized individuals. I encourage everyone in Waterloo Region to remain vigilant. Members of the public need to continue to follow public health guidance and get immunized as soon as possible,” Dr. Bana explained.
“Vaccines along with public health measures are still our best protection against COVID-19 and the Delta variant which is circulating in our community.”
The long-term care facility said the resident was only showing mild COVID-19 symptoms prior to her death. “As we have seen through the course of the pandemic, the virus can change quickly and our deepest condolences are with loved ones and team members facing this loss today,” reads the facility’s statement.