COLUMBUS, Ohio — On Tuesday, Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted held a press conference with the latest on the state's response to COVID-19.
DeWine announced that the number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours had ballooned to more than 1,400 after being below 900 the previous day. There were also 27 new deaths reported.
The governor sent a note of caution to Ohioans as they prepare to enjoy the upcoming holiday weekend. "There is grave concern about Labor Day coming up. … As we gather with family and friends we must remember that whenever there is more activity, we’re going to see more cases,” said DeWine.
He cited Fourth of July statistics as a cautionary tale.
“Remember, in the weeks after July 4th, we averaged close to 1,500 cases per day – we believe in large part because of Independence Day gatherings. Please stay safe this weekend,” warned the state’s top official.
DeWine also shared the goals that he hopes to accomplish with his upcoming order to schools about reporting COVID-19 cases.
- That parents are notified if their kids have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for the coronavirus.
- That parents are notified if someone in their child's building has tested positive for the coronavirus.
- That the public is aware of cases in their local districts.