COVID-19 infections decrease 40% in Ohio as springtime approaches
Ohio Department of Health director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff said rates of COVID-19 and RSV infections among Ohioans have started to decrease.
“Traditionally, spring is when we begin to see respiratory illnesses start to decline, and that’s exactly what we’re seeing in Ohio right now,” said Dr. Vanderhoff. “The rates of COVID-19 and RSV have been declining dramatically in recent weeks.”
While Ohio’s COVID-19 and RSV cases are down, there’s still a large number of people being treated for the flu.
Ohio sees 40% decrease in COVID-19 cases
According to the Ohio Department of Health, last week, there were 2,719 COVID-19 cases reported statewide.
“That was a 40% drop from what was reported just two weeks earlier,” said Dr. Vanderhoff.
Hospitalizations and deaths attributed to COVID-19 have also started to decrease.
While influenza activity is beginning to decline in Ohio, it’s still at a high level, according to the CDC.
The number of flu related outpatient visits dropped 23% last week, and the number of hospitalizations dropped 24%
“These are welcome signs but we can’t let our guard down, especially while flu rates are still high. It’s very important to continue to practice common sense prevention steps, such as staying home if you feel sick, then please avoid being around other people as much as possible until 24 hours after you’re both fever free and your symptoms are improving,” said Dr. Vanderhoff.
“Like a new vaccine”
Dr. Vanderhoff encouraged Ohioans to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine to further protect from illness.
“Adults 65 and older should receive an additional updated dose of the COVID-19 vaccine that became available in September as long as it’s been at least four months since their last shot or three months since they’ve had a COVID infection,” said Dr. Vanderhoff. “It’s important to think about this new updated version of the vaccine that became available in September is truly a new vaccine. An additional shot now will be sure to offer up protection for those 65 and older who are more vulnerable to COVID-19.”
Over 11 percent of Ohioans received the new vaccine, including 34% of residents who are 65 and older.
