There was a significant increase in the number of COVID-19 positive cases on Wednesday and Friday, April 15-17, in Ottawa County. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and the Ottawa County Emergency Management Agency (OCEMA) reported an increase of nine positives on Wednesday, five on Thursday, and one on Friday, pushing the countywide total to 29 on Monday, April 20.

Since the first positive test in Ottawa County on March 26, the number has substantially accelerated this week. This week’s spike in positive reports was attributed primarily due to an outbreak of the virus in a “congregate living facility,” a designation that includes nursing homes. There were no additional positive reports on Saturday through Monday, April 18-20.

Because of the HIPAA Privacy Rule, which establishes national standards to protect individuals’ medical records and other personal health information, the facility where there was an outbreak was not identified.

The OCEMA reports the virus remains common in the community, and urges Ottawa County residents to continue to take measures to protect themselves from the virus. These measures include:

• Practice social distancing. Keeping at least 6 feet of distance between individuals and avoid groups of 10 people or more.
• Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoiding touching your mouth, nose or eyes.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with your arm.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.
• Avoid those that are sick, and stay home if you are sick.

The Ottawa County Health Department (OCHD) staff is currently working with all confirmed cases to identify any close contacts that may have been exposed. OCHD staff will be notifying identified contacts and discussing safety measures. For more information, contact the OCHD at 419-734-6800. Its website, Ottawahealth.org also has information regarding COVID-19.