COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has tested positive for COVID-19, his office announced on Tuesday evening.
According to a release, DeWine's positive test occurred at approximately 5:30 p.m. The governor's office said DeWine began experiencing mild cold symptoms on Monday. Thinking he had a mild head cold, the 76-year-old DeWine proceeded with his work day on Tuesday.
As Tuesday progressed, DeWine's symptoms worsened and he was advised to take a COVID-19 test by his doctor, which was positive. At the time of the test, DeWine was reported to have a 101-degree fever.
DeWine is resting at home, according to his office.
"The current strain of Covid-19 can present itself with symptoms much like a head cold. Governor DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health advise testing yourself for COVID-19, even if you think you have only a minor cold," DeWine's office added in its statement.
The governor's positive COVID-19 test comes as cases across the state and nation continue to surge. Cases in Ohio spiked by almost 1,000 just last week.
An updated COVID-19 vaccine is now available and advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have endorsed the new shots for everyone 6 months and older.