As Ohio continues to see a surge in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases and related trends, Governor Mike DeWine is urging the state's citizens to reconsider their behavior.
RELATED: More coronavirus coverage from WKYC
At his press briefing on Tuesday, DeWine reiterated that all Ohioans should be wearing a mask when out in public or with friends, keeping a safe distance from others, washing their hands often and keep buildings well-ventilated. As for those living in a high incidence county -- which currently includes 82 of Ohio's 88 counties, DeWine recommended the following measures in order to help slow the spread of the coronavirus:
- Reconsider hosting or attending gatherings of any size
- Cancel events and do not attend Halloween parties
- Wear masks both inside and outside in situations where social distancing is not possible
- Individuals who are not feeling well should stay home
Gov. DeWine also said that due to the nature of the coronavirus in Ohio, which is now community spread, he is asking leaders in each of the state's counties to take inventory of where they are in the battle. He also said he will begin meeting with the counties to discuss how they can work together to beat the virus.
DeWine's comments come after a week in which Ohio repeatedly set new records for daily highs of new confirmed and probable coronavirus cases. On Tuesday, Ohio reported 2,509 new coronavirus cases, 198 new hospitalizations, 20 ICU admissions and 22 new deaths.
Later this week, Ohio could see its first counties reach Level 4 "purple" on the state's public health advisory system. You can watch DeWine's full press briefing in the video player below.