COLUMBUS, Ohio — Shortly after state officials announced Franklin County will move back to Level 4 of Ohio’s advisory system, local leaders discussed the next steps for preventing further spread of the virus.
Despite moving backwards, officials with Columbus Public Health are not recommending a stay home advisory. Additionally, Columbus Health Commissioner Dr. Mysheika Roberts said Level 4 does not mean schools should close or switch to remote learning.
“We need to wear our masks, we need to stay six feet apart, we need to avoid large gatherings, and, most importantly, if you have not been vaccinated, please get vaccinated,” said Roberts.
According to Roberts, health officials believe the recent spike in cases is linked to increased activity and travel during Spring break. The average age of positive tests continues to drop, Roberts added.
Currently, the average age of people testing positive in Columbus sits at 35, with people between the ages of 20-49 years old making up 70% of weekly cases over the past three weeks.
That said, Mayor Andrew Ginther stressed the importance of wearing masks and taking precautions.
“We must use all the tools we have to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and get to the other side of this pandemic and back to a sense of normalcy,” said Ginther. “There is light at the end of the tunnel, and I need each and every one of you to be that light and get vaccinated."
Over the last two weeks, the Ohio Department of Health has reported 2,821 cases of COVID-19 in Franklin County. ODH says Franklin County has 230 cases per 100,000 residents for the last two weeks which is higher than the state's average of 200 cases.
The state is also reporting 230 cases per 100,000 residents in the county for the last two weeks, which is higher than the 200 average in the state.
Franklin County Public Health released a statement after the county moved to Purple on the state's advisory system, saying while residents should continue their activities such as school and work, they must be cautious and urged them to get their vaccinations.
"Today's announcement is a call to action. It reminds us of the severity of COVID-19 and that the pandemic is far from over," said Franklin County Public Health Commissioner Joe Mazzola.
COVID-19 Vaccine Resources from ODH:
- Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov
- All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov
- More vaccine information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine
COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Clinics
The State of Ohio is sponsoring 18 mass vaccination clinics. Any Ohioan who is eligible to receive the vaccine can schedule an appointment at: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov.
Additional details and opening dates can be found here.
For more information on Ohio's response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.