The Van Wert County Courthouse

Thursday, Mar. 28, 2024

Health Dept. provides Coronavirus update

VW independent/submitted information

The Van Wert County General Health District is working with the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and Center for Disease Control (CDC) to monitor the current situation regarding the 2019 Novel Coronavirus. 

At the time of this release there are no confirmed cases in Ohio, while health officials across the U.S. are working with healthcare providers to promptly identify and to evaluate any suspected cases. 

“The Van Wert County General Health District wants to reassure the public we are monitoring the current situation and are in frequent contact with ODH and CDC,” said Paul A. Kalogerou, county health commissioner/medical director. “The Ohio Department of Health’s website, www.odh.ohio.gov, reports that an estimated 20,000 flu related deaths occur each year in the U.S. and as of right now no deaths have occurred from the Coronavirus in the U.S.” 

“We are committed to the safety of our community and will release additional information and guidelines as they become available,” Dr. Kalogerou added. “Please read and follow the precautionary guidelines released by ODH and the CDC.” 

At this time, precautions are universal and the same as those used to prevent the spread of the common cold and the flu.

–Wash hands often with soap and water. If not available, use hand sanitizer. Avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

–Avoid contact with people who are sick.

–Stay home while sick and avoid close contact with others.

–Cover mouth and nose with a tissue or a sleeve when coughing or sneezing.

–Those who have recently traveled to China, specifically Wuhan City, Hubei Province, or another outbreak area who feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing should do the following:

  • Seek medical care right away. Before going to the doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about the recent travel and symptoms.
  • Complete a questionnaire, as recommended by the ODH and CDC, if requested.
  • Avoid contact with others.
  • Do not travel while sick.

Follow the universal precautions as listed above. In addition to the above guidelines, Dr. Kalogerou recommends maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet, adequate rest, and physical activity, which will help a person’s immune system defend against infections.


For more information, visit the Van Wert County General Health District website at www.vanwertcountyhealth.org or follow Van Wert County Health Department on Facebook.

POSTED: 01/30/20 at 8:19 am. FILED UNDER: News