Tuesday Recap: Hospitals Working Hard, Preparing for Surge of Cases
COLUMBUS (News Talk 1480 WHBC) – Once again, Governor Mike DeWine along with other state leaders and health officials spoke this afternoon in Columbus to provide an update on COVID-19 in Ohio. Below is a complete outline of everything that was discussed.
Update on cases
The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has reported that two more people have died from COVID-19 in the Buckeye State, bringing the state’s total number up to eight. Counties that have a confirmed death include Cuyahoga (2), Erie (1), Franklin (2), Gallia (1), Lucas (1) and Stark (1).
Ohio now has 564 confirmed cases. 49 counties have at least one confirmed case. 145 Ohioans have been hospitalized so far. 62 patients are in the Intensive care Unit. 25 hospital patients are from long term care facilities.
Stark County has 13 confirmed cases of the coronavirus. According to the ODH’s latest numbers, Stark’s death total of one did not increase.
People and the Economy
Governor DeWine opened his press conference expressing his awareness of the public’s concern over the economy.
“Every single day I think about those of you who are unemployed,” DeWine said. “I think about the small businesses. I know that each day that goes by that you don’t have income is very, very tough. And I fully understand that.”
The Governor spoke about the statements made yesterday by President Trump, saying that he share’s the President’s frustration with the entire situation. However, DeWine says that the main goal is keeping people alive.
“The truth is that protecting people and protecting the economy are not mutually exclusive,” said DeWine. “In fact, one depends on the other. We save our economy by first saving lives. And we have to do it in that order.”
Messages to Struggling Businesses
Despite many businesses being closed, the financial services are open. Lt. Governor Jon Husted says their lobby may not be open, but they have ATMs and drive-thrus, online services.
Banks, credit unions encourage business owners experiencing difficulties to call them. Lt. Governor Husted says they will work with you and want to help you through this difficult period. Business owners can get more information here.
