Coronavirus cases are rising again across Ohio as the state gears up for Thanksgiving. Here's what that means for the holiday.
Statewide cases rose by about 1,100 in the three weeks from Oct. 20 to Nov. 9 reaching 7,511, according to the Ohio Department of Health. Hospitalizations shifted each week from 218 to 233 and down to 198. About 38 deaths were reported in that time.
This brings the total Ohio case count since 2020 to 3.6 million, roughly 144,000 hospitalizations and about 42,800 deaths, according to ODH data.
What to do if you're exposed to COVID?
In short, the Centers for Disease Control and Protection urges those exposed to COVID-19 to wear a mask. If symptoms develop, they should self-quarantine.
Anyone can develop COVID-19 up to 10 days after exposure, so if exposed, masks are recommended inside homes and in indoor public spaces to keep others safe.
The CDC recommends individuals test when they have COVID-like symptoms, at which point they should quarantine. If someone tests positive, they should remain home and isolated from others for at least five days until symptoms go away.
If symptoms remain after five days, isolation can end after the first fever-free 24 hours. That is without taking fever-reducing medication.
Those who had symptoms and experienced shortness of breath or had difficulty breathing should isolate for 10 days. Anyone hospitalized or with a weakened immune system should quarantine for 10 days at a minimum and consult a doctor before exiting isolation.
The most at-risk individuals are older adults over the age of 50, anyone with a weakened immune system and those with underlying health conditions including pulmonary disorders.
What are the symptoms of COVID?
Symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
