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Stopping Coronavirus Spread As One

March 18, 2020
Jeff LaRe News

As your state representative, I have received an influx of inquiries from my constituents regarding the status of coronavirus in Ohio.

I understand that for many this unprecedented time of uncertainty can instill fear, for what seemed like a distant issue has spread continents and now finds itself in our great state.

The coronavirus is a deadly virus that is rapidly spreading. Scientists are working to learn more about the coronavirus. What we do know is that the threat is real. What we also know is that we can all do our part to slow the spread, protect the health of ourselves and others, and save lives.

During this time I would like to ask my fellow Ohioans to do what Ohioans are known for, and what we as a collective people must do in times like these, and that is looking uncertainty in the eyes and facing it with resilience, as one.

So far, dozens of cases have been confirmed in Ohio. It is no doubt that this number will continue to rise, some experts suggesting that millions of Americans could become infected.

The actions we take over the next few days, weeks, even months will determine how well we emerge from this global health crisis. From how I see it, we each have an individual responsibility to contribute to mitigating the spread of the virus.

The good news is there is widespread consensus on steps we can take to stop the spread.

A key step is to practice social distancing, such as avoiding crowded places and maintaining six feet between people. This is helpful in containing the spread as the virus is thought to spread from person-to-person, such as people in close contact with one another (about six feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Here are some steps other steps that we all need to take, as recommended by the experts:

  • Wash your hands frequently, especially after being in public places. Washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds works. Hand sanitizer is also an option, provided it contains at least 60 percent alcohol.
  • If you or your child is sick, stay at home, unless medical care is needed. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Practice social distancing by avoiding crowds and maintaining at least 6 feet of space between you and others.
  • When you cough or sneeze, do so in your arm or shoulder, or use a tissue.
  • Make a habit of not touching your face.
  • Disinfect frequently-touched surfaces daily.

With new developments happening by the minute, I urge you to stay informed. The Ohio Department of Health has launched a website – coronavirus.ohio.gov – to help keep Ohioans informed. They have also set up a call center that is open seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. It can be reached at (833) 4-ASK-ODH ((833) 427-5634). 

I also wanted to share a few other resources the state is making available to Ohioans who may be negatively impacted by the coronavirus.

I will continue to keep you updated on the latest about the state’s efforts on this issue.

While these are unprecedented times, we can all play a part in halting the spread of the coronavirus and protecting the health of ourselves and those around us.