Considering the increase in gatherings that usually accompany the holiday, many epidemiologists forecasted a post-Thanksgiving coronavirus (COVID-19) spike.
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But nearly one month later, that spike in Ohio has yet to take place. Speaking at his press briefing on Monday, Governor Mike DeWine credited Ohioans for their reduction of contacts and increase in precautions for the prevention of a potential spike.
"The number of contacts Ohioans had over the holiday was reduced," DeWine said, citing a New York Times map that illustrated his point. "We're happy with what we saw ... what we want to do, obviously, is have fewer contacts ... overall, I think we should be pleased with what Ohioans did over that Thanksgiving weekend."
With Christmas Eve and Christmas approaching later this week, DeWine urged Ohioans to take a similar approach to the coming week.
"What we hope is that we're going to see people pull back and be very, very careful and fewer contacts over Christmas," DeWine said.
Last week, DeWine announced 10 "Stay Safe Ohio" protocols aimed at helping slow the spread of the coronavirus. The new guidance consists of the following 10 protocols:
- Stay at home
- Wear your mask
- Keep interactions short and stay apart
- Wash your hands
- Work from home
- Celebrate safe and celebrate small
- Don't eat or drink with anyone outside your household
- Limit travel
- Keep weddings and funerals safe
- Enjoy safe holiday activities
You can watch the entirety of Gov. DeWine's press conference in the YouTube player below.