Cases of COVID-19 in Ohio have jumped to 67 cases in 16 counties, Ohio announced in its daily update.
To prepare for the expected surge in Coronavirus patients, the State of Ohio is issuing an order for Ohio hospitals to delay non-emergency procedures to free up resources to treat the COVID-19 pandemic. Surgeries that preserve organs, limbs, or help stop the spread of cancer would happen as scheduled.
Dentists and veterinarians are also canceling procedures to free up protective gear for use by hospitals and first responders. Ohio has already received its allocation of personal protective gear from the federal stockpile.
Hospitals are examing the possibility of turning nursing homes, hotels, and closed hospitals into facilities to treat those infected with Coronavirus.
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Ohio Department of Health director, Dr. Amy Acton, said the steps Ohioans take to isolate themselves matter. “We’re saving lives. Every one of us that doesn’t spread it to someone else. If we did nothing the estimates are that 2.2 million Americans will die.” She said that changing our behaviors will decrease the number of deaths by half. “That is why what you’re doing makes all the difference,” Acton said that Ohio is using a gentle form of shelter in place but that more restrictions are possible if needed.
Speaking in a smaller room that previous press conferences to comply with social distancing suggestions, Governor Mike DeWine said, “Our goal is that next St. Patrick’s day, everyone will be able to go to their favorite bar or restaurant.”
DeWine defended the decision to close the polls for the protection of poll workers and voters.
Lt. Governor John Husted said a poll worker in Madison County had shown symptoms of the virus and that other states that went ahead with their elections are having problems.
DeWine said everyone who wants to vote will get to vote. “There are very good solutions out there either by the General Assembly or the courts. We are open for discussion on how this thing works out.”
The Governor cautioned that the situation is constantly changing. “Things will continue to move very, very quickly. The world will look different two weeks from now than it does right now.”
The Governor said there are no current plans to active members of the Ohio National Guard, but the Guard is prepared. “We have no plans to call out the guard. But they are certainly prepared.”