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Infectious disease doctor weighs in on factors for jump in Ohio COVID-19 cases

While the daily reported new cases jumped to the highest number in a month, the number of deaths continue to drop.

OHIO, USA — The Ohio Department of Health confirmed 729 new cases of the coronavirus Monday, which is nearly 300 above the 21 day average of 455.

“So I think the rise that we are seeing is a combination of a number of different factors,” says Dr. Kristin Englund, infectious disease physician at the Cleveland Clinic.

The number of cases announced Monday was the highest reported in Ohio since May 21st. Dr. Englund says the important thing is not just the number but understanding the why and there are several factors at play.

“So, it is definitely that we are testing more. We are definitely seeing the effects of businesses opening up and people getting out into the community and spending time in more enclosed spaces,” explains Dr. Englund.

From a 21-day average of 455 to nearly 730 is quite a jump. However, the number of deaths related to COVID-19 have continued to decline. The 21-day average of reported statewide deaths is 24, with 4 reported Monday. Dr. Englund says there are several reasons the cases maybe climbing while hospitalizations and deaths are falling.

“We’re not limiting the testing to simply those patients that are in the hospital or are the most sick,” says Dr. Englund.

In addition to more testing, she says people with compromised immune systems are exercising more caution, while younger, healthier people are trying to get back to somewhat of a usual life.

Dr. Englund says, “I think some of our older folks and some of our folks who have more risk factors are taking the precautions for themselves and they’re less likely to be going out. Hopefully as a community, we’ve figured out how to better take care of those in our community that are most at risk.”

While Dr. Englund reiterates that focusing on trends instead of the numbers for one day is better for interpreting where Ohio stands and where we’re going, today’s jump in cases give her cause for concern going forward.

“I want to be able to allow people to go back to a quote, unquote normal life and enjoy their experiences, but it makes me nervous,” says Dr. Englund. “It really does.”

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