Over the past month, we have witnessed the coronavirus outbreak continuing to spread to communities around the world, affecting our nation, province and community.

Since Feb. 29, Durham Region Health Department has had over 150 cases of COVID-19 reported. I am saddened to report that COVID-19 has taken its first lives in our city. On behalf of Oshawa City Council, I express our sincere condolences to family and friends who have lost loved ones to COVID-19.

I would also like to offer my deepest thoughts to those who are fighting COVID-19, have loved ones fighting the illness and our community members in self-isolation. We are thinking of you.

I extend my admiration and thanks to the first responders and health care professionals who are working around the clock for the safety and well-being of our community.

Sadly, the coronavirus has affected all facets of our community – from our local economy, to the way our municipality does business, to our health care system.

There are loved ones who we cannot visit in the hospital or long-term care facilities; family members who are in self-isolation; others who have had non-urgent surgeries or treatments postponed; those who are struggling with fear and anxiety; vulnerable community members in need of support and services.

Please know that my sincere thoughts and sympathies are with you during this difficult time. I am here for you – email me with ideas of how the City can help at mayor@oshawa.ca.

This is also an important reminder of the severity of the situation. I urge you to follow the recommendations of our government and health authorities – relentlessly practise physical distancing, wash your hands regularly and check in virtually on family, friends and neighbours.

We are all in this together. We must each do our part to help save lives.