19 Cases in Union County: The Union County Health Department is reporting 19 cumulative cases in Union County. 17 cases are lab confirmed cases. 2 cases are probable cases per CDC definition. 2 cases have required hospitalization (1 case currently hospitalized). The illness onset ranges from Mar. 1 to Apr. 25. 57.9% of the individuals are male and 42.1% are female. Contact tracing is underway to identify and notify individuals at increased risk for infection due to contact with one of these cases. Per www.coronavirus.ohio.gov, 0 cases have been reported in Union County congregate settings including long-term care and correctional facilities.
Clarifying Mask Usage: Governor DeWine clarified on Tuesday and again today that face coverings are recommended for customers, but not required. Face coverings will be required for employees on the job once the new orders are in place. There are some exceptions for employers and employees. Exceptions include a health reason or disability that does not allow for a face covering; an existing law or regulation prohibits use of a face covering; use of a face covering violates company safety policies; face coverings would go against industry best practices; or a practical condition in the workplace prevents the use of a face covering. Please remember the efforts we made to stay home drastically slowed the spread of this disease. If we all work together to wear masks, we take another step to protect our family and our neighbors. The science supports this decision. Please join in the effort.
Working on Graduation Plans: Health Commissioner Orcena and superintendents of Fairbanks, Marysville, and North Union schools have been working closely to discuss what graduation will need to look like for Union County seniors. This decision is incredibly difficult and is being made with as much prudence as possible, considering all perspectives and safety concerns. The decision made by our superintendents will be made in close consultation with the Union County Health Department and in compliance with the recommendations from the Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Department of Education. We also remind families of graduating seniors to reconsider holding graduation parties. Gatherings of more than 10 people are still prohibited and we continue to ask our residents for their help in fighting COVID-19. Please continue to be creative in celebrating our graduates.