Health District provides COVID-19 update

VW independent/submitted information

As of Wednesday, the Van Wert County General Health District (VWCGHD) reports two confirmed cases, and both cases have recovered. 

A person is reported as recovered from COVID‐19 when that person is released from isolation by local health district officials. A person who has been placed into isolation due to infection with COVID‐19 is released from quarantine when the following criteria are met: 

• At least seven days have passed since the onset of symptoms.
• The person has been fever‐free for at least 72 hours without taking fever‐reducing medication.
• Respiratory symptoms have improved.

As of Tuesday, Ohio reported 7,153 confirmed cases, 2,156 hospitalizations, and 309 deaths. This information is updated daily at 2 p.m. and can be found at http://coronavirus.ohio.gov.  

The Health District stresses the importance to limit all non‐essential activities. Those who have to be out need to maintain at least six feet distance between each other. It is also recommended that people wear a cloth mask when out in public (not a medical mask). Those who feel they may be experiencing symptoms of COVID‐19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath) and are mildly ill are encouraged to stay home and contact their healthcare provider by phone for guidance. 

Patients need to be vigilant in monitoring symptoms and reach out to a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen. Try to call ahead to the emergency room or urgent care prior to seeking care. 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. Use a sanitizer for those times when hand washing is not possible.
• Stay home unless it is absolutely necessary
• Stay home if sick
• Practice social distancing by staying six feet from others
• Call prior to going to the doctor or emergency room
• Cover mouths with a sleeve or tissue when coughing and sneezing

The Van Wert County General Health District is asking that the community remain respectful and help prevent the spread of rumors, which can fuel panic. Rumors can cause fear and anxiety, and spreading rumors can fuel panic. People who hear a rumor not supported by facts released by the General Health District office, the Ohio Department of Health, or Centers for Disease Control (CDC) should not spread that rumor. 

For questions about COVID‐19, contact the Van Wert County General Health District at 419.238.0808. For information on COVID‐19, including ways to prepare and help protect people’s health, go to www.coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 833.427.5634). Information and resources are also available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.coronavirus.gov.