The Union County Health Department received notice Monday of a fourth, lab-confirmed case of COVID-19 in the county.
The affected individual is an adult female. As of March 30, UCHD reports three adult females and one adult male have tested positive for the virus in Union County.
A contact investigation is underway to identify and notify close contacts of the individual.
Those in close contact to the individual will be notified by public health. They will be assessed for symptoms and instructed to self-quarantine for 14 days while monitoring for symptoms.
Schools
Also Monday, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine extended school closures until May 1. He said the situation will be reevaluated in the coming weeks.
While students are home, WOSU and other public broadcasting stations will offer educational television programming directed for preschoolers through 12th graders.
He also urged all churches to refrain from holding in-person church services at this time. Although churches are exempt from the Stay at Home order, he said avoiding public services will reduce risk, especially among older populations.
The Ohio Department of Health indicated Sunday that golf courses may operate as an outdoor recreation activity, but they must observe social distancing and protective measures.
Volunteers, equipment sought
UCHD and the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) are planning and organizing resources to respond to a predicted surge in seriously ill patients.
Medically trained volunteers who are willing and able to help are asked to sign up for the Medical Reserve Corp at www.uchd.net/medical-reserve-corp.
Individuals who have healthcare or medical credentials who sign up will be part of a plan to mobilize a community response, should the community see a surge of seriously ill people.
Those who may be on a leave of absence from their medical profession, retirees or college students (18 years or older) who are working on a medical certification are encouraged to join.
In preparation for a surge in ill patients, the EOC is also seeking donations of personal protective equipment (PPE) for first responders and healthcare workers.
Donations of hand sanitizer, N95 masks, surgical-type masks, face shields, disposable gloves, disposable splash gowns and Tyvek suits may be dropped off 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Donors may also call (937) 645-2097 to arrange a time.
Non-medical volunteers needed
The United Way of Union County is organizing non-medical volunteers to assist, as well. Individuals interested in volunteering may visit www.unitedwayofunioncounty.org/covidinfo.php.
In order to help distribute resources, the Union County Foundation recently launched the Union County COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund. The fund will accept tax deductible contributions to be used in cooperation with the Mass Care Unit of the EOC.
In partnership with the United Way of Union County, contributions will be allocated directly to Union County needs related to food, shelter and other emerging needs.
Caution urged
The CDC also issued a health alert urging people not to ingest non-pharmaceutical chloroquine phosphate, a chemical used in home aquariums. Two individuals have tried to use aquarium cleaner and have died or suffered critical illness.
The chemical is not intended for human consumption and does not treat or prevent COVID-19.