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Two Ohioans dying daily from COVID-19, officials say to show continued virus threat

By Kelcey Norris Mahoning Matters

Updated September 29, 2023 11:53 AM

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine delivers an address on COVID-19 on Wednesday, Dec. 29, 2021. (Photo provided)

COVID-19 remains a threat and vaccinations are needed to protect Ohioans.

That’s the message Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine had with Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Bruce Vanderhoff to discuss steps residents can take to protect against COVID-19 this fall.

According to ODH data, there are two deaths recorded per day in Ohio to COVID-19, and the data skews toward older populations.

“COVID-19 really remains a very real health threat and we’ve been experiencing recently arise and COVID-19 cases a lot less than increases in COVID hospitalizations,” Dr. Vanderhoff said. “Now we’re of course grateful that these increases have an approach to levels past few years but that’s likely due in no small part to the hybrid immunity that many of us developed as a result of vaccination in combination with past COVID infections. That said, our recent increasing cases and hospitalizations really just reaffirms the importance of staying up to date with vaccinations..“

Vaccine is vital for immunocompromised and 60 years of age and older

The new COVID-19 shot is particularly important for protecting Ohioans who are 65 and older, as well as people who are immunocompromised or have serious underlying chronic health conditions.

“These patients are the ones who continue to suffer the largest burden of severe illness and death during COVID-19 but the new vaccine is now available,” Dr. Vanderhoff said.

Not letting anyone fall through the cracks

“Providers are ordering that vaccine directly from the manufacturer just as they do other vaccines, rather than through federal and state authorities.

Dr. Vanderhoff explained if you have medical insurance, and that includes Medicare or Medicaid, these vaccines should be covered as a preventative health service.

“Those without insurance can take advantage of several programs to ensure they also have access to the vaccine at no costs,” he said. “For example, the Federal Vaccines for Children program that allows ODHH to offer vaccines, free of charge to eligible children, including those who are uninsured will be available through our network of VFC providers and for adults who are uninsured. The CDC has created a bridge access program which will be in effect through the end of 2024. As part of that program, the CDC has contracted with CVS, Walgreens and E TrueNorth pharmacies to offer free COVID-19 vaccinations to the uninsured.”

If you are seeking to find providers who are offering the new COVID vaccine, you can visit the CDC website, vaccines dot there you can filter your search by where you live your age group and even if you want access to vaccine through the new Bridge program, you can also call their number which is 1-800-232-0233.

“Starting all over again” with vaccine

Vanderhoff said even if you had a vaccine before or if you’ve never been vaccinated for COVID-19, you are encouraged to get an updated dose.

“We kind of look at this as, in a sense, starting over,” said Vanderhoff. “What the CDC and the FDA have done here is say we have a new formulation. And this new formulation has real benefits. Anyone six months of age or is recommended to get this but you know when we look at the data, it is very clear that that population 60 years of age and older and those who have those underlying serious health conditions and immune system issues. It is especially important for them.”

According to the ODH COVID-19 reporting webiste, a total of 87,871 people have received the newest vaccine as of this week.

Can I get flu and COVID-19 shot at the same time?

Yes, it’s safe but Dr. Vanderhoff recommends getting one in each arm in case of swelling.

What about RSV?

According to Dr. Vanderhoff, anyone can get a combination of the flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.

But if you’re over 60, he said to ask your provider first about RSV option.

Will Ohio be wearing masks again?

“I don’t see that we’re going to be imposing any mask mandates. It’s a different time and the vaccine is readily available. I don’t see that happening,” said DeWine.

Dr. Vanderhoff said if you test positive, you should isolate for 5 days. During that time, if you have to be around people, wear a high quality mask to slow down the spread.