Still 2 COVID-19 cases confirmed locally

VW independent/submitted information

Van Wert County General Health District (VWCGHD) continues to report two confirmed cases of COVID‐19. The Ohio Department of Health reported on Wednesday that there are 5,148 confirmed cases in the state. There have been 1,495 hospitalizations, and 193 COVID‐19 related deaths. 

ODH updates these numbers daily at 2 p.m. Local residents can find that information at https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/.

While the number of confirmed cases for Van Wert County remains the same, the health department knows there is community spread happening throughout Ohio. The local Health District recommends that all county residents take precautions to protect themselves against COVID‐19. 

COVID‐19 can cause mild to more severe respiratory illness. Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Anyone who has any of these symptoms should quarantine at home. Older adults, people with chronic health conditions, and people with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for more serious complications from COVID‐19. Most people who get sick with COVID‐19 will have only mild illness and should recover at home. 

New guidance recommends that people wear a mask when in public, such as at the grocery store and pharmacy, to help slow the spread of COVID‐19. Wearing a mask will not prevent someone from contracting COVID‐19, but it can help prevent them from spreading it to others ‐‐ especially if they have it, but are not yet showing symptoms. Do not use medical supply masks, which must be reserved for healthcare workers, first responders, and people who are known to be sick. 

Persons entering the state with the intent to stay are asked to self‐quarantine for 14 days. This includes “snow birds” returning to the area for the season. This does not include truckers, those essential workers who work across state lines, and healthcare workers. 

The community is urged to help reduce the spread of COVID‐19 by following these recommendations: 

• Wash hands with soap and water often for at least 20 seconds. Those unable to wash their hands should use a hand sanitizer.