News

FDA Authorizes Second Booster Dose of Two COVID-19 Vaccines for Older and Immunocompromised Individuals

March 29, 2022

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized a second booster dose of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or the Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for older people and certain immunocompromised individuals. The FDA previously authorized a single booster dose for certain immunocompromised individuals following completion of a three-dose primary vaccination series. This action will now make a second booster dose of these vaccines available to other populations at higher risk for severe disease, hospitalization and death. Emerging evidence suggests that a second booster dose of an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine improves protection against severe COVID-19 and is not associated with new safety concerns.

The agency amended the emergency use authorizations as follows:

A second booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine or Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine may be administered to individuals 50 years of age and older at least 4 months after receipt of a first booster dose of any authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine.
A second booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine may be administered to individuals 12 years of age and older with certain kinds of immunocompromise at least 4 months after receipt of a first booster dose of any authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine. These are people who have undergone solid organ transplantation, or who are living with conditions that are considered to have an equivalent level of immunocompromise.
A second booster dose of the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine may be administered at least 4 months after the first booster dose of any authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine to individuals 18 years of age and older with the same certain kinds of immunocompromise.

“Current evidence suggests some waning of protection over time against serious outcomes from COVID-19 in older and immunocompromised individuals. Based on an analysis of emerging data, a second booster dose of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine could help increase protection levels for these higher-risk individuals,” said Peter Marks, M.D., Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. “Additionally, the data show that an initial booster dose is critical in helping to protect all adults from the potentially severe outcomes of COVID-19. So, those who have not received their initial booster dose are strongly encouraged to do so.”

Today’s action applies only to the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines and the authorization of a single booster dose for other age groups with these vaccines remains unchanged. The agency will continue to evaluate data and information as it becomes available when considering the potential use of a second booster dose in other age groups.

The FDA-authorized Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine and the FDA-approved Comirnaty can be used to provide the authorized booster dose(s). Similarly, the FDA-authorized Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine and the FDA-approved Spikevax are authorized to provide the authorized booster dose(s).

Information to Support Authorization of a Second COVID-19 Booster Dose

The FDA has determined that the known and potential benefits of a second COVID-19 vaccine booster dose with either of these vaccines outweigh their known and potential risks in these populations. The evidence considered for authorization of a second booster dose following primary vaccination and first booster dose included safety and immune response information provided to the agency as well as additional information on effectiveness submitted by the companies.

A summary of safety surveillance data provided to the FDA by the Ministry of Health of Israel on the administration of approximately 700,000 fourth (second booster) doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine given at least 4 months after the third dose in adults 18 years of age and older (approximately 600,000 of whom were 60 years of age or older) revealed no new safety concerns.

The safety of Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, when administered as a second booster dose, is informed by experience with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine and safety information reported from an independently conducted study in which the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine was administered as a second booster dose to 120 participants 18 years of age and older who had received a two-dose primary series and a first booster dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine at least 4 months prior. No new safety concerns were reported during up to three weeks of follow up after the second booster dose.

Immunogenicity data from an ongoing, open-label, non-randomized clinical study in healthcare workers at a single center in Israel were reported in a publication provided to the FDA. In this study, individuals 18 years of age and older who had received primary vaccination and a first booster dose with Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine were administered a second booster dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine (154 individuals) or Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine (120 individuals) at least four months after the first booster dose. Among these individuals, increases in neutralizing antibody levels against SARS-CoV-2 virus, including delta and omicron variants were reported two weeks after the second booster as compared to 5 months after the first booster dose.

The amendments to the EUAs to include a second booster dose for these populations were granted to Pfizer Inc. and ModernaTX Inc.

Ohio National Guard to Bolster Support in Southern Ohio, Cleveland Walker Center Testing Location to Close

January 18, 2022

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today said that Ohio National Guard support will continue to shift to address increasing needs in southern Ohio in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Decreasing demand at some of the first Guard-supported COVID-19 testing locations in Northeast Ohio will allow the Guard to surge into other areas in the state, including Central and Southern Ohio that are seeing increased need. Changes in Guard deployment include new support for testing locations in several Southeastern Ohio communities including Athens, Pomeroy, and Jackson.

National Guard Supported Testing Locations

As of today, the Guard is currently supporting or is preparing to support the following testing locations:

Athens: (Holzer) 2131 E. State St., Athens.
Canton: (Aultman/Cleveland Clinic Mercy), Stark County Fairgrounds, 305 Wertz Ave. NW, Canton.
Chillicothe: Adena Regional Medical Center, 272 Hospital Rd., Chillicothe.
Cincinnati: (Ethos Laboratories), Crossroads Church, 990 Reading Rd., Mason.
Cincinnati: (Ethos Laboratories), Riverbend, 6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati.
Cincinnati: UC Health, 321 Albert Sabin Way, Cincinnati.
Cleveland: Walker Center (Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals), 10524 Euclid Ave., Cleveland.
Columbus: (Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center), first floor of the CAS parking garage at 2540 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus.
Dayton: (Premier Health) Miami Valley Hospital, 1 Wyoming St., Dayton.
Gallipolis: (Holzer) 2881 State Route 160, Gallipolis.
Jackson: (Holzer) 500 Burlington Rd., Jackson.
Mansfield: Avita Ontario Hospital, 715 Richland Mall, Mansfield.
Maumee: Lucas County Recreation Center, 2901 Key St., Maumee.

Pomeroy: (Holzer) 88 East Memorial Dr., Pomeroy.

Springboro: Dayton Children’s Hospital Springboro COVID-19 testing site, 3300 W. Tech Road, Springboro.

Toledo: UAW Local 12, 2300 Ashland Ave., Toledo.
Zanesville: Genesis Hospital, 2951 Maple Ave., Zanesville.

Please note that start dates and plans for pending locations are subject to change. Not all Guard members who have been deployed are located onsite yet. Testing locations supported by National Guard members will test individuals age 2 years and older. Check with your local testing site for potential age restrictions.

As a result of decreasing testing demand, the final day of COVID-19 testing at the Walker Cleveland Community COVID-19 Testing site will be Sunday, Jan. 23. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and Ohio National Guard have been working collaboratively with Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals to operate the site that opened on Dec. 21 and has tested nearly 25,000 people.

Additionally, Summit County’s drive-thru testing location in Akron closed last week. The site, which opened on Dec. 28 and performed approximately 11,892 tests over 18 days, was operated by Summit County Public Health, Akron Children’s Hospital, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, and Summa Health with Guard support.

Guard deployments to date include 14 medical teams (about 140 Guard members) and 185 general support teams (about 1,850 Guard members). Of the general support teams, 17 (about 170 Guard members) are providing support at testing centers, according to the Ohio National Guard. In total, nearly 2,400 Ohio National Guard and State Defense Force members have been deployed in support of COVID-19 operations across Ohio to include hospital support, vaccinations at senior housing locations, prison support, and support at the Ohio Department of Health’s Receipt, Store, and Stage warehouse.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Jan. 12, 2022

Contact: ODH Office of Communications 614-644-8562

COVID-19 Testing Supplies for Ohio’s K-12 Schools, Colleges, and Universities

COLUMBUS – The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is announcing plans to prioritize the state’s supply of COVID-19 tests to first support testing for K-12 schools and colleges/universities. This comes as the state is experiencing a delay in shipment of more than 800,000 testing kits amid a nationwide shortage in COVID-19 testing supplies.

ODH has been making available both the proctored rapid Abbott BinaxNow at-home antigen tests and over-the-counter self-administered tests free to Ohioans at local health departments, public libraries, schools, and other locations. Ohio was one of the first states to prioritize widespread distribution of free rapid testing kits and has distributed about 5.6 million free testing kits – 1.4 million in December alone.

ODH ordered 1.2 million proctored testing kits for January. So far, 400,000 proctored testing kits have been received and are being distributed. Shipment of the remaining 800,000 proctored testing kits has been delayed by the manufacturer as demand for these tests has increased nationwide during the Omicron-driven surge in COVID-19 cases. ODH anticipates receiving shipments later this month. As supply becomes available, the rapid testing kits will first be distributed to meet the needs of K-12 schools and colleges/universities.

COVID-19 tests are a critical tool to help ensure in-person learning can continue in Ohio schools. Ongoing access to these tests helps ensure students and teachers can remain in the classroom. Because schools are experiencing significant new demand for tests as COVID-19 cases continue to climb, the state is temporarily adjusting its allocation strategy to ensure schools receive an adequate supply. As a result, the state is pausing shipments to other community partners, including libraries and local health departments, until inventory and the supply chain have stabilized.

As tests become available after the urgent needs of K-12 schools and higher education institutions are met, the state will again send tests to libraries and local health departments to distribute. Existing and new requests will be processed in the order in which they are received. The state will continue to purchase and distribute these tests to make testing as accessible as possible to Ohioans.

The overall demand for testing in Ohio is exceptionally high, with a seven-day average of more than 94,000 tests per day.

It’s important to note that tests are available from many sources statewide. While testing supply chains are challenged, over-the-counter rapid testing kits can still be purchased at many locations, such as pharmacies and grocery stores. Testing is also available at many urgent care locations, community health centers, retail locations, and pop-up sites. The ODH website features a searchable map of testing locations at https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/dashboards/other-resources/testing-ch-centers.

Each testing location has its own inventory controls and protocols. When you find a testing location, it’s important to call in advance to ensure tests are available and to determine how to access tests.

Testing is an important tool, but only one of the tools available to help protect against COVID-19. Ohioans are urged to follow proven prevention measures to help prevent further spread of the virus. The best thing that Ohioans can do is to stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations. Vaccinations, including timely boosters, combined with masking, social distancing, frequent hand washing, and staying home when sick, can help prevent illness and the need for possible testing.

COVID-19 vaccines are widely available throughout the state. Many providers offer walk-in appointments, or Ohioans can schedule a vaccination appointment at gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov. Ohioans who want to learn more about the safety, efficacy, and side effects of COVID-19 vaccines should talk to their doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, or visit coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine.

Ohio Expands COVID-19 Testing Locations with Support from Ohio National Guard

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today announced that the Ohio Department of Health, the Ohio National Guard, and the Ohio Hospital Association will expand COVID-19 testing locations in nine Ohio cities, including several new locations, starting this week. The additional testing locations will be mobilized with support from Ohio National Guard personnel. The locations, which are intended to divert testing traffic from hospital emergency rooms, come as the state is experiencing the highest number of COVID-19 hospitalizations during the pandemic. Today, the Ohio Hospital Association reported a record-setting 6,177 inpatient hospitalizations.

“As the demand for COVID-19 testing increases, adding to the pressure our hospitals are facing, members of the Ohio National Guard will continue to play a critical role in the state’s response,” said Governor DeWine. “I commend Guard members for their commitment to their fellow Ohioans as they answer the call to serve.”

About 300 members of the Ohio National Guard will provide support at the additional testing sites, which will be operated in partnership with Ohio hospitals and health networks.

While the testing centers are critical to the state’s effort to decompress high volumes at hospitals around the state, the majority of Ohio National Guard members will remain in hospitals providing direct clinical care and non-clinical support.

Last week, Governor DeWine ordered the mobilization of an additional 1,250 members of the Ohio National Guard to support Ohio’s hospitals experiencing the most critical needs across the state, bringing the total deployment of National Guard members working with Ohio’s healthcare systems to 2,300 members.

The Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Hospital Association are evaluating the situation in Ohio’s hospitals daily to assess and maximize staffing to ensure Guard members are assisting in locations with the most critical needs. Hospitalizations for COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients and testing needs change every day, and staffing adjustments are being made accordingly.

At this time, the Ohio National Guard has either been deployed or will soon be deployed to support the following testing locations:

NOW OPEN:

Cleveland: Walker Center (Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals), 10524 Euclid Ave., Cleveland.
Akron: Atrium Testing Site (Summa Health), 1077 Gorge Blvd., Akron.
Columbus: (Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center), first floor of the CAS parking garage at 2540 Olentangy River Road, Columbus.

COMING SOON:

Canton
Zanesville
Mansfield
Chillicothe
Toledo
Springfield
Cincinnati
Dayton expanding capacity at existing testing locations.

More details about these testing locations are forthcoming.

Maintaining up-to-date vaccination remains the best tool against COVID-19 hospitalization and death. As Ohio is experiencing record-setting hospitalizations amid the spread of the Delta and Omicron variants, it’s critical that Ohioans follow prevention strategies including getting vaccinated, getting a booster shot if eligible, wearing face masks, washing hands frequently, getting tested, and staying home if sick, even if symptoms are mild.

COVID-19 vaccines are widely available throughout the state at doctor’s offices, community vaccine clinics, hospitals, community health centers, pharmacies, and more. And many local health departments are expanding hours and availability to assist Ohioans in getting the shot. For example, Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus health departments host clinics in various community facilities and have flexible hours, including evenings and weekends. The Toledo Lucas County Health Department provides COVID-19 shots weekdays at their downtown office and at The Rec Center on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Cuyahoga, Franklin, Hamilton, and Dayton-Montgomery County health departments all offer COVID-19 shots at community sites with flexible hours.

More than 7 million Ohioans have received at least their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. That is 63% of all eligible Ohioans, and 70% of Ohio adults. In addition, more than 2.7 million have received a booster dose. It is important to complete the series of recommended doses, including booster doses when eligible, to receive maximum protection from serious illness, including hospitalization or death.

Statewide, many providers offer walk-in appointments, or Ohioans can schedule a vaccination appointment at gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov. Ohioans who want to learn more about COVID-19 testing, and the safety, efficacy, and side effects of COVID-19 vaccines should talk to their doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, or visit coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine.

Governor DeWine Provides Update On COVID-19 Hospitalizations and Ohio National Guard Deployment

December 29, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)— Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced today that he has ordered the mobilization of an additional 1,250 members of the Ohio National Guard to support hospitals with the most critical needs across the state. The mobilization comes on the same day the state set an all-time high for the total number of COVID-19 hospitalizations during the pandemic.

The Ohio Hospital Association reported today that 5,356 people are currently hospitalized with COVID-19. One in four patients are COVID-19 positive. This surpasses the previous hospitalizations record of 5,308 on Dec. 15, 2020. Of today’s hospitalizations, 1,228 patients are in the ICU, which is approaching the record high of 1,318 ICU patients reported on Dec. 15, 2020.

Ohio National Guard Deployment

As hospitals struggle with staffing to support the surge in COVID-19 patients, Governor DeWine announced during a press conference today, that he has asked Major General John C. Harris, Jr., Adjutant General, Ohio National Guard, to mobilize an additional 1,250 members of the Ohio National Guard, bringing the total deployment of National Guard members working with Ohio’s healthcare systems to 2,300 members.

“This is not something we take lightly... We are asking them to leave their families, their jobs and homes. This is a huge sacrifice,” Governor DeWine said.

Governor DeWine previously authorized the deployment of 1,050 Ohio National Guard members on Friday, Dec. 17. Major General Harris said the Ohio National Guard’s goal is to augment hospitals’ medical staff and wraparound services. Teams including nurses and medics will provide clinical care and non-medical teams will offer support services such as food service, patient transportation within facilities, and administrative support.

Approximately 460 Guard members are deployed in the Cleveland area; more than 160 in the Toledo area; about 100 in Columbus area. Smaller numbers of the Guard will be deployed in the coming days in Mansfield, Dayton, and Lima to support hospitals. Guard personnel are also supporting testing sites in Cleveland and Akron.

“The National Guard has been indispensable,” said Robert Wyllie, MD, Chief Medical Operations Officer, Cleveland Clinic.

The Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Hospital Association are working daily with Ohio hospitals to assess staffing needs to determine the most appropriate support from the Ohio National Guard.

“Everybody agreed when the decision was made to send in the National Guard to our hospitals … All the way through this, we are going to be guided by where they are needed most today. It should give people confidence that everybody is on the same page here. Let’s deploy them where they are needed the most,” Governor DeWine said.

Hospitals

Hospitals have been taking extraordinary measures to manage this COVID-19 surge, including postponing elective surgeries, while battling staffing shortages as a result of COVID-19 infection or exposure, and burnout.

The northern parts of Ohio have been particularly hard hit, especially the greater Cleveland area, where one in three patients are COVID-19 positive, including ICU patients, according to OHA data.

“The hospital systems are under significant stress in Northern Ohio,” Dr. Wyllie said. “We are running 2,000 tests a day. Let me tell you about those tests: 36% of the people going into the Walker Center for testing are testing positive for COVID.”

Statewide, the COVID-19 positivity rate is 25%, according to Ohio Department of Health data.

The state’s strategic hospital zone and region structure has allowed hospitals to work together with neighboring hospitals to balance the load of patients. This structure continues to be vital as cases and hospitalizations dramatically rise statewide and staffing remains a significant concern.

While Southwest Ohio is not seeing the same volume of patients as northern parts of the state, Richard P. Lofgren, MD, President and Chief Executive Officer, UC Health, expressed concerns about the surge in cases making its way across the entire state during the coming weeks.

“Unfortunately, the pandemic is not over … we are seeing more cases now than we have ever seen along the way,” he said. “Now, the spread of Omicron is adding fuel to this raging fire. One of the things that I want to make sure that people understand, is that this not only affects the care of people with COVID, but also affects people who don’t have COVID. It squeezes out our ability to take care of patients with other life-serious or life-threatening problems, such as heart attacks and strokes.”

Governor DeWine also spoke with Jennifer Hollis, a critical care nurse at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, about her experience in the hospital.

“I just want everybody to be able to walk a mile in my shoes and kind of understand as a critical care nurse, what I am seeing when I am coming into work. It is beyond difficult,” Hollis said. “Our beds are full. There is nowhere else to go, and we are just as short-staffed as everyone else is seeing as well … We are tired, we are frustrated, and we want the best for all of our patients.”

Hollis urged Ohioans to get vaccinated to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their communities. “I’ll continue to fight for you, when you won’t fight for yourself. Please get vaccinated. Quarantine if you are symptomatic. Get tested,” she said.

Vaccination, prevention

Governor DeWine emphasized that the COVID-19 vaccines remain a powerful tool to keep people out of the hospital. Since June 1, 2021, there have been 35,962 admissions, and 92.5% of those have been among people who are not fully vaccinated.

Now more than ever, it’s critical to follow prevention strategies including getting vaccinated, getting a booster shot if eligible, wearing face masks, washing your hands frequently, getting tested, and staying home if sick, even if symptoms are mild.

“We are looking now at an impact of COVID-19 that is unlike anything we’ve seen before in this pandemic,” said Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA, Director, Ohio Department of Health. “We have access to a powerful tool that can really shield us from the worst outcomes of COVID-19, and that is vaccination.”

As of today, more than 6.9 million Ohioans have received at least their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. That’s 63% of those Ohioans eligible (ages 5 and older). More than 2.6 million have received an additional dose, or a booster dose.

Masking in Schools

Today, the Ohio Hospital Association also distributed a letter from the Ohio Hospital Association and Ohio Children’s Hospital Association to Ohio school superintendents, administrators and school board members encouraging them to implement a masking requirement when students return from the holiday break. A masking requirement in schools will help limit community spread of COVID-19 and keep students in school, the letter said.

Holidays

Dr. Vanderhoff encouraged Ohioans to celebrate safely this holiday weekend so we can all have a healthy start to 2022. “As we get ready to ring in a new year, please, think about the steps you can take to prevent COVID-19 spread before you gather. Keeping vaccinations up to date, appropriate testing, staying home if you feel the least bit sick, masking especially in crowded indoor environments, proper ventilation, and regular handwashing can all help prevent the spread of COVID-19, flu, and other illnesses this season,” he said.

COVID-19 Update: Ohio National Guard Mobilized, Hospital Staff Needed

December 17, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today provided the following updates on Ohio’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic:

OHIO NATIONAL GUARD MOBILIZED

Governor DeWine mobilized 1,050 members of the Ohio National Guard to help relieve the hospital staffing strain caused by the rising number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients is causing. Of the total mobilized guard members, approximately 150 are highly-trained medical professionals and will deploy to help meet critical needs at hospitals and testing locations. The remaining 900 guard members will help with patient transport, housekeeping, and food services. Guard members will be brought on duty beginning on Monday.

STAFFING AGREEMENT

The Ohio Department of Health is working with an Ohio health care staffing company to help meet hospital staffing needs. This agreement will allow for Ohio hospitals to bring in qualified nurses and other providers from out-of-state to fill needed positions to help ease some of the current added pressure on hospitals and staff.

HOSPITALIZATION DATA

More than 4,700 people are currently hospitalized in Ohio fighting COVID-19, that equates to one in every 5 hospital patients. This is the highest number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 this year, and the number of hospitalized patients is rapidly approaching an all-time high.

Due to the increase in COVID-19 hospital admissions many hospitals have been forced to postpone elective surgeries, transfer patients to other hospitals, impose visitation standards, and/or implement what they call “crisis standards of care,” in which they have no choice but to take extraordinary steps to care for patients in ways that aren’t typical, such as providing intensive care in emergency rooms or in post-surgical units.

In Northern Ohio (Ohio Hospital Zone 1) most hospitals have suspended elective surgeries. In Central and Southeast Ohio (Ohio Hospital Zone 2), the same thing is beginning to happen. In Southeast Ohio, (Ohio Hospital Zone 3), hospital leaders are preparing to take similar action.

The best way to relieve the strain on our health care providers is to stay up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccinations to prevent serious illness and hospitalizations. To find a vaccination provider near you, visit http://gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov.

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

More vaccine information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine

Video of today's full update, including versions with foreign language translation, can be viewed on the Ohio Channel's YouTube page.

For more information on Ohio's response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

Omicron Variant Detected in Ohio

Two Samples of B.1.1.529 Variant Detected Through Genomic Sequencing

December 13, 2021 - COLUMBUS – The Ohio Department of Health has reported that the first two cases of the B.1.1.529 (Omicron) variant have been confirmed in Ohio following genomic sequencing by The Ohio State University Laboratory.

“We have known that it would only be a matter of time until a case of Omicron was detected in Ohio. The CDC believes that this variant has likely been circulating in the U.S. since November,” said Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA. “This variant’s arrival and the continued impact of the Delta variant underscore the importance of our best prevention tool, which is choosing to be vaccinated. COVID-19 vaccines, coupled with prevention measures, provide the greatest protection from severe illness resulting in hospitalization or death. If you have not yet been vaccinated, or are eligible for a booster dose, now is the time to go and get your shot.”

The two Omicron cases were detected in adult males in Central Ohio, and both tested positive on a PCR test on Dec. 7. Both cases had received their initial COVID-19 vaccine series more than six months ago, but neither had yet obtained a booster. Both patients are currently experiencing mild symptoms and have not been hospitalized. Neither had a history of international travel. Although more information is being gathered, to protect patient privacy, exact age and county of residence are not being released at this time. Public health officials have already contacted the individuals are in the process of appropriate case investigation and contact tracing.

The Ohio State University Laboratory is sequencing all positive PCR tests, and during the past three weeks, has sequenced about 1,000 positive PCR tests. These two positive tests reflect about 0.2% of all tests sequenced at the OSU lab – the remainder of which were Delta.

“While the arrival of Omicron in Ohio is noteworthy, we must not lose sight of the fact that the Delta variant continues to drive cases and hospitalizations very high. As of yesterday, there were 4,422 patients in the hospital with COVID-19, a high that matches what we experienced in January of 2021 during last winter’s surge,” explained Dr. Vanderhoff. “The hospitalizations in this Delta surge are largely being driven by unvaccinated Ohioans. Severe illness with COVID-19 is largely preventable thanks to vaccines.”

Dr. Vanderhoff added, “While we will continue to learn more about Omicron in the days to come, early reports from South Africa suggest Omicron may be more contagious and more likely to reinfect people. Naturally, there has been concern regarding whether vaccines would remain protective. The results of the early research regarding vaccines are encouraging, reinforcing the benefits of primary vaccination and timely boosters.”

“If you test positive for COVID-19, how you and public health officials react should not be determined by the variant you have. Regardless of which variant may be spreading, isolation and quarantine remain key in preventing further spread of the virus.” explained Dr. Vanderhoff. “If you are sick with symptoms of COVID-19, you should immediately get tested. Even if you are vaccinated, it is important to follow prevention measures to protect yourself and others and to minimize the spread of the virus.”

The Ohio Department of Health updates information on the proportion of variants in Ohio each Monday on the COVID-19 Variants in Ohio dashboard. Data on this dashboard lags by two weeks, and when updated on Monday, Dec. 13, the most recent two-week period reflected will be for the period ending Nov. 27, 2021, and will not include the two Omicron cases referenced above.

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For additional information on COVID-19 in Ohio, and the Omicron variant, please view the Ohio Department of Health’s Dec. 9, 2021, press conference at https://youtu.be/Dx4yAvwUPs4.

About the Ohio Department of Health

The Ohio Department of Health’s mission is advancing the health and well-being of all Ohioans by transforming the state’s public health system through unique partnerships and funding streams; addressing the community conditions and inequities that lead to disparities in health outcomes; and implementing data-driven, evidence-based solutions.

For information about COVID-19:

coronavirus.ohio.gov

1-833-4-ASK-ODH

World Health Organization Update on Omicron Variant

On 26 November 2021, WHO designated the variant B.1.1.529 a variant of concern, named Omicron, on the advice of WHO’s Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution (TAG-VE). This decision was based on the evidence presented to the TAG-VE that Omicron has several mutations that may have an impact on how it behaves, for example, on how easily it spreads or the severity of illness it causes. Here is a summary of what is currently known.

Current knowledge about Omicron

Researchers in South Africa and around the world are conducting studies to better understand many aspects of Omicron and will continue to share the findings of these studies as they become available.

Transmissibility: It is not yet clear whether Omicron is more transmissible (e.g., more easily spread from person to person) compared to other variants, including Delta. The number of people testing positive has risen in areas of South Africa affected by this variant, but epidemiologic studies are underway to understand if it is because of Omicron or other factors.

Severity of disease: It is not yet clear whether infection with Omicron causes more severe disease compared to infections with other variants, including Delta. Preliminary data suggests that there are increasing rates of hospitalization in South Africa, but this may be due to increasing overall numbers of people becoming infected, rather than a result of specific infection with Omicron. There is currently no information to suggest that symptoms associated with Omicron are different from those from other variants. Initial reported infections were among university students—younger individuals who tend to have more mild disease—but understanding the level of severity of the Omicron variant will take days to several weeks. All variants of COVID-19, including the Delta variant that is dominant worldwide, can cause severe disease or death, in particular for the most vulnerable people, and thus prevention is always key.

Effectiveness of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection

Preliminary evidence suggests there may be an increased risk of reinfection with Omicron (ie, people who have previously had COVID-19 could become reinfected more easily with Omicron), as compared to other variants of concern, but information is limited. More information on this will become available in the coming days and weeks.

Effectiveness of vaccines: WHO is working with technical partners to understand the potential impact of this variant on our existing countermeasures, including vaccines. Vaccines remain critical to reducing severe disease and death, including against the dominant circulating variant, Delta. Current vaccines remain effective against severe disease and death.

Effectiveness of current tests: The widely used PCR tests continue to detect infection, including infection with Omicron, as we have seen with other variants as well. Studies are ongoing to determine whether there is any impact on other types of tests, including rapid antigen detection tests.

Effectiveness of current treatments: Corticosteroids and IL6 Receptor Blockers will still be effective for managing patients with severe COVID-19. Other treatments will be assessed to see if they are still as effective given the changes to parts of the virus in the Omicron variant.

Studies underway

At the present time, WHO is coordinating with a large number of researchers around the world to better understand Omicron. Studies currently underway or underway shortly include assessments of transmissibility, severity of infection (including symptoms), performance of vaccines and diagnostic tests, and effectiveness of treatments.

WHO encourages countries to contribute the collection and sharing of hospitalized patient data through the WHO COVID-19 Clinical Data Platform to rapidly describe clinical characteristics and patient outcomes.

More information will emerge in the coming days and weeks. WHO’s TAG-VE will continue to monitor and evaluate the data as it becomes available and assess how mutations in Omicron alter the behaviour of the virus.

Recommended actions for countries

As Omicron has been designated a Variant of Concern, there are several actions WHO recommends countries to undertake, including enhancing surveillance and sequencing of cases; sharing genome sequences on publicly available databases, such as GISAID; reporting initial cases or clusters to WHO; performing field investigations and laboratory assessments to better understand if Omicron has different transmission or disease characteristics, or impacts effectiveness of vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics or public health and social measures. More detail in the announcement from 26 November.

Countries should continue to implement the effective public health measures to reduce COVID-19 circulation overall, using a risk analysis and science-based approach. They should increase some public health and medical capacities to manage an increase in cases. WHO is providing countries with support and guidance for both readiness and response.

In addition, it is vitally important that inequities in access to COVID-19 vaccines are urgently addressed to ensure that vulnerable groups everywhere, including health workers and older persons, receive their first and second doses, alongside equitable access to treatment and diagnostics.

Recommended actions for people

The most effective steps individuals can take to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus is to keep a physical distance of at least 1 metre from others; wear a well-fitting mask; open windows to improve ventilation; avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces; keep hands clean; cough or sneeze into a bent elbow or tissue; and get vaccinated when it’s their turn.

WHO will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available, including following meetings of the TAG-VE. In addition, information will be available on WHO’s digital and social media platforms.

ODH Issues Statement on Federal COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Expansion

COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters Will Be Available to All Ohioans 18 and Older

November 19, 2021

COLUMBUS – Following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) action today, COVID-19 vaccine boosters will be available for fully vaccinated adults 18 and older following action by the CDC director. Those who originally received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine are eligible for a single booster dose two months following their original dose; those who received Moderna or Pfizer/Comirnaty will be eligible six months after receiving their second dose, which completed the original vaccine series. Fully vaccinated adults can choose any of the three authorized COVID-19 vaccines for their booster dose.

“Following action by the CDC director, vaccine providers in Ohio can begin administering COVID-19 vaccine boosters to any fully vaccinated Ohioan 18 or older,” explained Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA. “The COVID-19 vaccines continue to be incredibly effective. However, there is a natural tendency for immunity to wane over time, whether natural immunity or immunity from a vaccine, and many immunizations require at least one booster dose. When Ohio adults choose to get booster doses, it will keep their immunity from COVID-19 at peak performance.”

“Remember, though, that there are still many eligible Ohioans who have not yet gotten their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. For those Ohioans who haven’t yet chosen to be vaccinated, I urge you to talk to your doctor or pharmacist to get the facts about COVID-19 vaccines. The COVID-19 vaccines are under constant rigorous ongoing safety review. With more than 195 million people having been fully vaccinated in the U.S., including more than 6.6 million Ohioans, these vaccines maintain a remarkable safety record. There is ample vaccine supply in Ohio for first and second doses, as well as boosters.”

The FDA Authorizes Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 Boosters for All Adults

Friday, November 19, 2021

(Washington D.C.) - The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) amended their Emergency Use Authorization orders for the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines today, authorizing the use of a single booster dose for adults 18-years or older who are vaccinated.

Before the move goes into effect, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will meet later today to decide if it will grant its agency authorization, according to multiple media reports. If passed by the CDC, individuals could be eligible for their boosters as early as this weekend, the New York Times reports.

COVID-19 Update: Governor DeWine Provides Update on COVID Exposure, Pediatric Vaccination Information

November 4, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today updated Ohioans about his recent COVID-19 exposure. The Governor cancelled public events through Sunday after he and First Lady Fran DeWine were exposed to COVID-19 by staff members who tested positive. Governor and Mrs. DeWine have tested negative for COVID-19 and will continue to test while monitoring for any symptoms.

AGES 5 TO 11 PEDIATRIC VACCINATIONS

More than 850 Ohio kids ages 5-11 have recieved the COVID-19 vaccine since the CDC and the FDA gave final authorization of the pediatric dose earlier this week.

Children may be vaccinated at many different types of providers, including local health departments, pediatricians, family physicians, community health centers, adult and children’s hospitals, and pharmacies. Parents should contact their provider to learn about vaccination opportunities or they can visit gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov to find a provider or make an appointment.

VAX-2-SCHOOL UPDATE

The Ohio Vax-2-School program has expanded to include youger Ohioans with this new authorization. Ohioans aged 5-25, or their parents or guardians, can enter online at ohiovax2school.com once they have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The program will award $2 million in scholarships, including 150 $10,000 scholarships and five $100,000 grand prize scholarships that can be used at an Ohio college, university, or career training opportunity.

The initial registration deadline is Sunday, Nov. 21. Full registration dates, rules, and information, as well as the registration portals, are available online at www.ohiovax2school.com.

DEATHS DATA

The Ohio Department of Health reported that 1,264 Ohioans died of COVID-19 in October. The number may continue to increase as reports are received. To put this in perspective the number of individuals who died of COVID-19 was the sixth higest during the month of October than at any other point in the pandemic.

In October, at least 173 of these deaths occurred amongst people in their 50s. At least 78 of these deaths occurred amongst people in their 40s–and at least 28 of these deaths occurred amongst people in their 30s.

On average there are more than 41 Ohioans dying each day from COVID.

VACCINATION DATA

The best tool to fight the virus continues to be vaccination. Those who are not vaccinated should talk to their physician if they have questions and visit gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov to find a vaccine provider.

Today, nearly 65 percent of Ohioans ages 12 and older are vaccinated and 67 percent of those 18 and above vaccinated. In October, 153,163 Ohioans chose to get vaccinated.

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

COVID-19 Vaccinations for Ohio Children 5-11 Years Old Can Begin Today

Ohio Vax-2-School Expands to Include Younger Students

November 3, 2021

COLUMBUS – A large portion of the more than 367,000 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 pediatric vaccine formulation expected to arrive in Ohio over the coming days are already available, and can immediately be administered to children ages 5-11.

“We are on the threshold of a long-awaited step that brings us closer to getting through this pandemic,” Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA, shared in a press conference this morning. “Thanks to the authorization of a COVID-19 vaccine for those ages 5 to 11 years old, we can now better protect these school-aged children from severe complications from COVID-19.”

ODH also announced the official expansion of the Ohio Vax-2-School program to those ages 5 to 25, adding those between the ages of 5 and 11 years. Ohio Vax-2-School will award $2 million in scholarships to eligible Ohioans, and prizes include 150, $10,000 scholarships, and five, $100,000 grand prize scholarships. The program will include have a series of registration deadlines, and to be eligible for all prize drawings, Ohioans should register as soon as the first dose of the vaccine has been administered, ideally by the initial registration deadline of Sunday, Nov. 21. The deadlines are as follows:

Sunday, Nov. 21, 11:59 p.m. – eligible for all drawings.
Sunday, Nov. 28, 11:59 p.m. – eligible for the second drawing (75, $10,000 winners) and the grand prize drawing.
Wednesday, Dec. 1, 11:59 p.m. – eligible for the grand prize drawing.

Ohioans aged 5-25, or their parents or guardians, can enter online once they have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at www.ohiovax2school.com.

Although children are less likely than adults to get severely ill from COVID-19, they most certainly can, and do, become ill – even seriously ill, and can suffer lasting complications from the virus. As of Nov. 1, more than 2,000 Ohio children under 18 had been hospitalized with COVID-19, and 15 had died. Nationally, the virus has taken the lives of nearly 800 children.

To date, more than 247 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine have been administered in the United States, helping to prevent severe cases of COVID-19 resulting in hospitalization and death. A smaller dose of this same vaccine, one-third of the adult size, was thoroughly studied and tested in clinical trials. The trials showed that the pediatric formulation was nearly 91% effective at preventing symptomatic infections, and no serious side effects were detected.

Ample supply of the pediatric COVID-19 vaccine will be available in all 88 counties. More than 367,000 doses are set to arrive in Ohio on a staggered schedule over the coming days during the first week of vaccine administration, including 252,300 ordered through the state’s allocation and 115,200 ordered by pharmacies through the federal retail pharmacy program. Additional doses will continue to be delivered to providers in Ohio on a regular basis moving forward.

Providers across the state, including local health departments, pediatricians, family physicians, community health centers, adult and children’s hospitals, and pharmacies, are receiving shipments and will be scheduling appointments or accepting walk-ins. As the shipments arrive, providers can begin to administer the vaccine. Ohioans are encouraged to call their provider for more information or visit gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634) to locate a provider or make an appointment.

Today’s press conference, which also included Patty Manning-Courtney, MD, Pediatrician, Chief of Staff, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center; Michael Forbes, MD, Pediatric Intensive Care Specialist, Akron Children’s Hospital; and Michele Dritz, MD, Pediatrician, Cornerstone Pediatrics; Delegate at Large, American Academy of Pediatrics, Ohio Chapter, can be viewed online.

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COVID-19 Vaccines Will Soon Be Available to Ohioans Ages 5-11 Years Old

November 3, 2021

COLUMBUS – Following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granting an emergency use authorization (EUA) to the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 pediatric vaccine formulation, and pending a recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is announcing that vaccine providers across the state can begin vaccinating children ages 5 to 11 years old as soon as the CDC makes its recommendation.

“Today is a day that many children and numerous adults — parents, guardians, grandparents, aunts, uncles, pediatricians, teachers, and coaches — have long awaited,” said Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA. “The authorization of this COVID-19 vaccine for younger Ohioans is yet another crucial turning point in this pandemic, allowing us to better protect young children from severe complications from COVID-19. This deadly virus has killed more than 24,000 Ohioans, and has caused nearly 206,000 pediatric infections among those ages 17 and younger.”

While children are less likely than adults to get severely ill from COVID-19, they most certainly can, and do, become ill. As of Nov. 1, more than 2,000 Ohio children under 18 had been hospitalized with COVID-19, and 15 had died.

“Just like adults, when children become sick from COVID-19, they can spread it to others and suffer severe health outcomes, or even death,” explained Dr. Vanderhoff. “When more people are vaccinated, it lessens the opportunity for dangerous variants to take hold, helping us to get control of this pandemic.”

The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine pediatric formulation is a smaller 10 microgram dose compared with the dose of 30 micrograms used in adults and adolescents 12 and older. It is arriving in Ohio on a staggered schedule over the coming days. Providers across the state, including local health departments, pediatricians, family physicians, community health centers, adult and children’s hospitals, and pharmacies, are receiving shipments and will be scheduling appointments or accepting walk-ins. As the shipments arrive and following the CDC’s recommendation, providers can begin to administer the vaccine. Ohioans are encouraged to call their provider for more information or visit gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634) to locate a provider or make an appointment.

There are an estimated 997,570 Ohioans ages 5 to 11 years old, bringing the total of Ohioans eligible to be vaccinated based on age to 10,998,272, approximately 94% of the state’s population.

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Public Health Experts Continue to Urge Masking in School Settings

COLUMBUS – Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA, has issued the following statement regarding masking in schools:

“Despite a recent downtrend, Ohio’s COVID-19 cases remain at a very high level. We know that there are two proven ways to keep this virus at bay: Vaccinations for those who are eligible and wearing masks if you cannot get the vaccine. Although it is promising that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention likely will affirm the Food and Drug Administration’s decision to make vaccination available for 5-11-year-olds this week, we know that it takes a full five weeks before the vaccine provides the highest level of immunity. For these reasons, we continue to encourage students to wear masks in school as we await the rollout of the vaccine for younger students.”

Ohio Vax-2-School Program Expected to Include Children Ages 5 to 11 Years Old as Soon as This Week

Entry Deadlines to be Announced in the Coming Days

COLUMBUS – This week, it is expected that the CDC will recommend the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine pediatric formulation, allowing parents who wish to have their children ages 5 to 11 years old to be vaccinated to start making vaccination appointments.

As soon as the CDC recommends the vaccine, the Ohio Vax-2-School program will expand to include youth ages 5 to 11, Ohio Vax-2-School will award $2 million in scholarships to eligible Ohioans. Prizes include 150, $10,000 scholarships, and five, $100,000 grand prize scholarships.

Ohioans aged 12-25, or their parents or guardians, can currently enter online at www.ohiovax2school.com or by phone at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634) once they have received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Providers in Ohio will be permitted to administer vaccines to children ages 5 to 11 years old following the recommendation of the CDC, which is expected following the meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), scheduled to meet Nov. 2-3. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) has recommended the pediatric formulation of COVID-19 vaccines for those ages 5 to 11 years old, and the FDA has issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for the vaccine. Those ages 5 to 11 years old can be entered in Ohio Vax-2-School immediately following their first dose of the vaccine, which could be administered as soon as later this week following the recommendation of the CDC.

The Ohio Vax-2-School prize scholarships, awarded in Ohio 529 College Advantage plans, can be used at the Ohio college, university, technical/trade school, or career program of the winner’s choice. A deadline to enter and drawing dates have not yet been announced. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and the Ohio Lottery Commission will share those details after the CDC recommends the use of the pediatric vaccine formulation for 5-11-year-olds.

To date, more than 6.4 million Ohio residents, representing nearly 65% of Ohioans ages 12 and older, have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Among Ohio’s youngest eligible residents, more than 385,000 Ohioans ages 12-17 – more than 43% of Ohioans in that age group – have started the vaccination process. Vaccines offer the best protection from COVID-19, and the Ohio Vax-2-School program is an added incentive to be vaccinated for those in the eligible age group, currently 12-25, who have received at least one dose of the vaccine. This applies to vaccinations received at any point since the COVID-19 vaccines have been available.

Ohio’s goal is to ensure fair, equitable distribution across the state so this important COVID-19 vaccine for younger Ohioans is available in each of Ohio’s 88 counties. ODH is diligently working with vaccine providers, including local health departments, pediatricians, family physicians, community health centers, both adult and children’s hospitals, schools, and pharmacies across the state to prepare to vaccinate youth ages 5-11. ODH is working closely with Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (Ohio AAP) and the Ohio Children’s Hospital Association (OCHA) to prepare for vaccine distribution.

Ohio Department of Health Releases Updated School Quarantine Guidance

“Mask to Stay” and “Test to Play” Options Announced

COLUMBUS – Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA, director of the Ohio Department of Health, today announced additional quarantine options, “Mask to Stay” and “Mask to Play,” for school districts and local health departments across the state. Out-of-school quarantining has the unintended consequence of reducing in-school learning and can place an added strain on parents, schools, and local health departments.

“While vaccination and masking remain critical components of ensuring a safe school environment, to support in-school learning, we offer an in-school alternative to out-of-school quarantining for students and school staff exposed to COVID-19 in school settings and during school-related activities,” explained Dr. Vanderhoff. “Those exposed outside of school-related activities, such as in the household, should continue to follow standard quarantine guidelines.”

The proposed changes incorporate mask-wearing and testing to reduce the chance of spread of COVID-19 within structured school settings and provide a safe alternative to out-of-school quarantine. The options below only apply to direct contacts in a school environment – those individuals who are identified as being directly exposed to COVID-19 by a positive case in a classroom or other school setting. COVID-19 is spread through sneezing, coughing, talking, and breathing. The best practices for distancing are 3 feet with everyone masked, 6 feet if not masked. Tests can be either PCR or antigen tests, but they must be proctored or observed. The full guidance is available at https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/static/responsible/schools/k-12-schools-quarantine-alternative.pdf.

“The ‘Mask to Stay’ and ‘Test to Play’ options are informed by a growing body of national experience, as well as from a pilot in Warren County, and experience shared by other local health departments pointing toward a low number of direct contacts that convert to cases within school settings,” Dr. Vanderhoff stated.

Mask To Stay

Direct contacts in a school environment, regardless of vaccination or masking status, may remain in the classroom environment if they:

1. Wear a mask for 14 days after their last date of exposure.

2. Self-monitor, or parent-monitor, for symptoms of COVID-19.

3. Isolate and get tested if they start to experience symptoms associated with COVID-19 (regardless of level of severity).

4. Consistent with guidance for others quarantining in lower-risk environments, students and staff may discontinue these quarantine procedures after seven days — if they meet two basic criteria: one – they don’t develop symptoms, and two – they test negative between days 5-7.

While parents and students are responsible for symptom monitoring, if school staff or school nurses see a child exhibiting symptoms they should act accordingly.

Test to Play

Asymptomatic contacts in a school environment may continue to participate in extracurricular activities if they:

1. Wear a mask when able. This includes wearing a mask during transportation, such as traveling on a team bus to and from games; while in locker rooms; while sitting or standing on the sidelines; and any time the mask will not interfere with breathing, the activity in which they are participating, or create a safety hazard.

2. Test on initial notification of exposure to COVID-19.

3. Test again between days 5-7 following exposure to COVID-19. If they are negative at this time, they will test out of quarantine after day 7 and can resume normal activities.

School districts are also encouraged to consider same-day testing for athletic competitions where there is the potential of school-to-school exposure.

Those who are fully vaccinated, as well as those who consistently wear masks in school, can already remain in the classroom if exposed to COVID-19 in a school setting.

There are many opportunities in Ohio to be vaccinated, including walk-in and scheduled appointments statewide at pharmacies, federally qualified health centers, doctor’s offices, community vaccination sites, and local health departments. There is ample supply of vaccine for boosters, as well as first and second doses, for Ohioans. Ohioans can check their eligibility and book an appointment online at gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov or by calling 1-833-427-5634.

Ohioans who want to learn more about the safety, efficacy, and side effects of COVID-19 vaccines should talk to their doctor, nurse, or pharmacist, or visit coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine to learn more.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Greg Gulker, 740-352-9692

COMPASS COMMUNITY HEALTH TO DISTRIBUTE HUNDREDS OF FREE AT-HOME COVID-19 TEST KITS

October 8, 2021, Scioto County, Ohio – Compass Community Health CEO Summer Kirby announces plans to distribute over 400 free at-home COVID-19 test kits to area residents. As part of a state-wide effort to slow the spread of Coronavirus, OACHC (Ohio Association of Community Health Centers) as procured hundreds of thousands of BinaxNOW home test kits and has dispatched them to the most vulnerable areas of Ohio, with Scioto County being identified as such. Being a member of the Association, Compass Community Health has been chosen to help get these test kits into homes where they’re most needed.

Kirby said, “As with many other diseases, early detection of COVID-19 is critical to the success of treatment. Having the ability to get this special allotment of at-home test kits in the hands of those who most need them, and at zero cost to the recipient, is exactly what we do at Compass.”

To accomplish this task, CCH Outreach & Enrollment Specialist, Kristen Shonkwiler-Baker will be handing out test kits on Thursday, October 14, 2021 from the Mex-Itali Restaurant at 850 St. Rt. 239 West Portsmouth, Ohio from 9:00am – 3:00pm. Due to increased recent demand for testing and at-home kits, there will be a per household limit of five kits.

About Compass

Compass is a Federally Qualified Health Care Center (FQHC). Under the Public Health Service Act, FQHCs provide core primary and preventive health care services to everyone in the community, as well as underserved populations. In addition to primary health care, Compass also offers in-house pharmacy services and consultation, connection to community agencies and programs through Outreach and Enrollment services, help with transportation to the office and any other related doctor appointments; as well as on-site specialized services for behavioral health and pediatric occupational therapy services.

Compass Community Health Care Center, located at 1634 – 11^th Street, US Highway 52E, Portsmouth, Ohio, is open to all in the community and always welcoming new patients. Call for more information, (740) 355-7102.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Oct. 5, 2021

Contact: ODH Office of Communications 614-644-8562

Federal Report Shows Life-Saving Benefits of COVID-19 Vaccines

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Report Shows COVID-19 Vaccines Are Linked To A Reduction of COVID-19 Cases, Hospitalizations, and Deaths

COLUMBUS – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a report showing that COVID-19 vaccinations in Ohio may have helped prevent roughly 13,000 new COVID-19 infections, 5,300 hospitalizations, and 1,800 deaths among seniors in Ohio during the first five months of 2021. The study, which was conducted by researchers with HHS’s Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation (ASPE), reviewed associations between Medicare fee-for-service (FFS) beneficiaries and the proportion of the fully vaccinated population at the county level between January and May 2021. The study also found that nationally, vaccinations were linked to a reduction of approximately 265,000 COVID-19 infections, 107,000 hospitalizations, and 39,000 deaths among Medicare beneficiaries between January and May 2021.

“This report further puts numbers to something I have long said – vaccines save lives,” explained Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA. “COVID-19 has taken the lives of more than 22,000 Ohioans, has hospitalized more than 74,000, and has caused more than 1.4 million infections. The remarkable COVID-19 vaccines can help prevent severe illness and death from COVID-19, and will prevent dangerous variants from taking hold.”

Ohio data shows that of those who were hospitalized with COVID-19 since January 2021, more than 96% were not reported to be fully vaccinated.

“Our vaccination goals have remained consistent: save lives and slow the spread by protecting Ohio’s most vulnerable individuals,” said Ursel J. McElroy, director of the Ohio Department of Aging. “Understanding there would be potential barriers to getting vaccinated, we worked with partners to remove those barriers, inform people about the vaccine, and make the vaccine accessible.”

From the beginning of vaccine distribution, Governor DeWine has prioritized vaccination of the most vulnerable Ohioans, making those who live and work in specific congregate care settings among the first eligible to receive vaccines, including those in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, state psychiatric hospitals, veterans homes, and congregate care settings for people with developmental disabilities. Ohio also moved quickly and was one of the first states in the country to put in place a vaccine maintenance program for long-term care settings to ensure every staff member and resident has a continuous opportunity to get vaccinated.

While today’s report shows the clear benefit of COVID-19 vaccines for older Ohioans, it remains critically important for those of all eligible ages to choose to be vaccinated. The state recently launched Ohio Vax-2-School, incentivizing Ohioans aged 12-25 who have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 to enter to win one of 150, $10,000 scholarships, or one of five, $100,000 grand prize scholarships. The scholarships, awarded in Ohio 529 College Advantage plans, can be used at the Ohio college, university, technical/trade school, or career program of the winner’s choice. Pending the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s granting of an emergency use authorization (for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5- to 11-year olds, the program will expand to allow parents and guardians to enter on behalf of children as young as 5. Eligible Ohioans can enter online now at www.ohiovax2school.com or by phone at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).

“If you haven’t yet been vaccinated, talk to your doctor to get the facts. COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and are available at no cost. Choosing to be vaccinated could keep you out of the hospital, and save your life,” Dr. Vanderhoff said.

The HHS report is available at https://aspe.hhs.gov/reports/covid-19-vaccination-rates-outcomes.

Ohio Vax-2-School To Award $2 Million in Scholarships

Ohio Department of Health and Ohio Lottery Share Announce Program Updates

October 4, 2021

COLUMBUS – Today, Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA, and Ohio Lottery Commission Director Pat McDonald provided an update on the Ohio Vax-2-School program, announcing that the prize money has been doubled to a total of $2 million in scholarships.

Beginning Monday, Oct. 4, Ohioans aged 12-25 can enter online at www.ohiovax2school.com or by phone at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634) to win one of 150, $10,000 scholarships, or one of five, $100,000 grand prize scholarships. The scholarships, awarded in Ohio 529 College Advantage plans, can be used at the Ohio college, university, technical/trade school, or career program of the winner’s choice. The Ohio Department of Health is using a portion of its Coronavirus Relief Funds to fund this innovative public outreach campaign and initiative.

In addition, the state hopes to expand the age group to include younger Ohioans.

“We are hearing promising news following the clinical trial and safety data submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by Pfizer for their COVID-19 vaccine for 5 to 11-year-olds,” explained Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff. “In anticipation of a COVID-19 vaccine being authorized for children as young as 5 in the near future, we have decided to broaden the Ohio Vax-2-School program to include this age group, should they become eligible for vaccines.”

Ohio Vax-2-School is an opt-in program, meaning that you must enter to be eligible for the prize drawings. Any Ohioan in the eligible age group, currently 12-25, with possible expansion from 5-25, can choose to enter, and are encouraged only to enter after having received at least one dose of the vaccine. Individuals who entered, but did not win, Ohio’s Vax-A-Million drawings are eligible, but they must enter the Ohio Vax-2-School program, as entries do not carry over from Ohio Vax-a-Million. There is no required time frame for which past vaccinations must have occurred.

“We had great success with Vax-a-Million, and we’re excited to assist the Department of Health again with this new initiative to help encourage younger Ohioans to get vaccinated,” Ohio Lottery Director Pat McDonald said.

“We are hopeful that the $2 million in scholarship prizes will provide an incentive, much like Vax-a-Million did, to help speed up the vaccination timeline for Ohioans,” explained Dr. Vanderhoff. “As you will recall, in the first week after Ohio Vax-A-Million was announced, there was a 44% increase compared to the base in vaccination rates for those 16 and older, and a 15% boost the following week. For all ages, there was a 106% increase compared to the base in the first week, and a 53% increase the second week.”

A deadline to enter and drawing dates have not yet been announced. The Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Lottery Commission will share those details in the weeks ahead, allowing as much time as possible for an emergency use authorization (EUA) to be granted for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for those ages 5-11.

Ohio Department of Health Releases Guidance on COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Doses

COLUMBUS – The Ohio Department of Health has issued guidance to the more than 3,500 COVID-19 vaccine providers statewide to ensure they have access to the latest information on administering booster doses of the Pfizer/Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccines. In addition, Ohioans can get information about the booster doses from the following recently released resources:

In alignment with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), booster doses of the Pfizer/Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccine are now available for the following populations at least six months after completion of the primary Pfizer series, meaning at least six months after the second dose was administered:

People 65 years and older or residents in long-term care settings SHOULD receive a booster shot.
People ages 50 to 64 with certain underlying medical conditions SHOULD receive a booster shot.
People ages 18 to 49 with certain underlying medical conditions MAY receive a booster shot based on their individual benefits and risks. The CDC has indicated that this is a determination made by the vaccine recipient, but those eligible are encouraged to talk to their healthcare providers if they have any questions.
People age 18 and older who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of their job or living in an institutional setting MAY receive a booster shot based on their individual benefits and risks. The CDC has indicated that this is a determination made by the vaccine recipient.

There are many opportunities in Ohio to be vaccinated, including walk-in and scheduled appointments statewide at pharmacies, federally qualified health centers, doctor’s offices, community vaccination sites, and local health departments. There is ample supply of vaccine for boosters, as well as first and second doses, for Ohioans. Ohioans will be able to check gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-427-5634 for the latest eligibility information and to find a vaccine provider near them.

Eligible booster recipients will be asked to attest they have one of the qualifying conditions, but specific proof will not be required. Eligible Ohioans should allow 2-3 weeks to get their booster dose, with many opportunities to be vaccinated in their local community.

Governor DeWine Issues Statement on Pfizer/Comirnaty COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Doses

Following CDC Action, Booster Doses to be Available in Ohio

September 24, 2021

COLUMBUS – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health have announced that eligible Ohioans will be able to receive a booster dose of the Pfizer/Comirnaty COVID-19 vaccine as soon as practical, following final action by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Last night, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) amended the emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to allow for use of a single booster dose, to be administered at least six months after completion of the primary series to specific groups. Today, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) further refined that recommendation.

“We have been closely following the discussions and developments on COVID-19 vaccine booster doses. The experts have stressed that those at risk for the most severe outcomes from COVID-19 should be eligible for booster doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine,” said Governor DeWine. “Ohioans should rest assured that they will be able get their booster dose. As we have said since the beginning of the pandemic, our goal is to save lives. In alignment with federal partners, prioritization of specific high-risk groups will allow us to continue to save lives as we work toward getting the COVID-19 pandemic under control.”

“We have been diligently working with our vaccine providers to ensure that there are abundant opportunities to receive COVID-19 vaccine boosters in Ohio,” explained Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff. “There is ample supply of vaccine for boosters, as well as first and second doses, for Ohioans. Following final action by the CDC, Ohio’s many providers will be able to begin administering booster doses of the Pfizer vaccine in pharmacies, federally qualified health centers, doctor’s offices, community vaccination sites, and local health departments.”

At this time, the Ohio Department of Health is awaiting final action of the CDC, including the release of a Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) with detailed guidance. Once the CDC issues final approval of the recommendation, Ohio’s more than 3,500 enrolled COVID-19 vaccine providers can begin to offer boosters to eligible Ohioans. 

After all necessary approvals are received, Ohioans will be able to check gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-427-5634 for the latest eligibility information and to find a vaccine provider near them. Eligible booster recipients will be asked to attest they have one of the qualifying conditions, but specific proof will not be required. Eligible Ohioans should allow 2-3 weeks to get their booster dose, with many opportunities to be vaccinated in their local community, whether they walk in to get their third dose or make an appointment with a nearby provider.

COVID-19 Update: Hospital Situation, Vaccine Incentives, School Bus Drivers

September 23, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today provided an update on the increased impact that COVID-19 hospitalizations are having on our hospitals and a new vaccine incentive effort to help keep our children in school, in-person, five days a week.

LETTER FROM OHIO HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION

“I received a letter from the Ohio Hospital Association outlining the dire conditions facing our hospitals who are on the front lines of treating patients with COVID. While they are doing everything they can to help these patients, they are facing a severe nursing and staffing shortage," said Governor DeWine. “What they wrote is consistent with what we’ve been hearing from front-line health care workers.”

The letter reported that increasing cases are putting a strain on hospital resources. The data shows:

In mid-July, Ohio hospitals were treating 200 COVID-19 patients, today that number is 3,702. That’s a 16-fold increase in two months.
In mid-July, one out of 100 patients in the hospital were being treated for COVID. Today the ratio is one out of six. Today, 40% of patients on ventilators are being treated for COVID.
In rural Southeast Ohio half of hospitalized patients are being treated for COVID-19 and two-thirds of the patients in the intensive care unit are being treated for COVID.

The letter described a situation where strained resources impact the ability to care for all patients. Some Ohio hospitals are diverting patients away from emergency departments, cancelling certain procedures, experiencing long wait times in emergency departments, and shutting down certain units to redeploy staff to critical cases.

OHIO VAX-2-SCHOOL

Governor DeWine emphasized that keeping kids in school, in-person, five days a week, remains a priority. We know that the best way to do that is to get students vaccinated. In addition to protecting kids from the severe effects of the virus, students who are vaccinated, do not have to quarantine if exposed, which means they won’t miss out on school.

To encourage eligible kids to get vaccinated, Governor DeWine announced the Ohio Vax-2-School program, which will be open to Ohioans aged 12 to 25 years old, and will be similar to the scholarship portion of the successful Vax-a-Million program. Prizes will include 50 scholarships worth $10,000 each and five $100,000 scholarships to an Ohio college or university for career or technical education. Prizes will be announced Monday through Friday beginning the week of October 11^th. More details will be announced, including how to register, in the coming days.

BUS DRIVERS

Governor DeWine also made a public plea, after hearing from school districts across the state about the shortage of bus drivers. He asked any Ohioan with a CDL license that also has a bus driver certification, who are not employed, to contact their local school district, to help drive school busses, temporarily.

He also spoke with Attorney General Dave Yost who agreed that, moving forward, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation would prioritize recquired background checks for school bus drivers, educators, nurses, and other health care professionals.

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

COVID-19 Update for Ohio

September 21, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor DeWine today provided an update on the increased impact that COVID-19 is having on Ohio's younger populations and the stress that the surge of cases is having on hospitals statewide.

"The bottom line is that we’re seeing our highest levels ever of hospitalizations among those under 50 years old," said Governor DeWine. "Those who are getting very sick, being hospitalized, and dying of COVID are getting younger and younger. And it is because they are not vaccinated."

Today, there were 459 newly-reported hospitalizations, the highest number of new hospitalizations since January.
The number of new hospitalizations for COVID-19 of those under 50, was the highest during of the entire pandemic during the week of Sept. 5^th, when Ohio hospitals admitted 398 patients under the age of 50.
During he most recent completed reporting week (Sept. 5 -- Sept. 11), 230 Ohioans 39 and younger were admitted to the hospital, which is the highest number of admissions for COVID in this age group during the entire pandemic, even higher than during the winter surge levels when no one was vaccinated.
Around 97 percent of patients of all ages in Ohio hospitals today are unvaccinated.
In July, 48 percent of COVID-19 deaths were among those 69 years old and younger. In August, preliminary data shows that an average of two people younger than 50 died of COVID-19 in Ohio every day.
Last month, preliminary numbers showed 18 Ohioans 39 and younger died from COVID-19. This is compared to five people in that age range who died in June and two people in that age range who died in July.

Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, Director, Ohio Department of Health

"If you are young and unvaccinated it's now probably only a question of when, not if, you get COVID-19. When you get COVID-19 without the protection of a vaccine, there is a very real risk you'll end up in the hospital or the obituary pages. The numbers really tell it all, COVID has changed and is now making younger Ohioans who are not vaccinated very sick. Don't become a statistic when there is a simple, safe, and effective alternative. Go out today and get vaccinated."

Suzanne Bennett, M.D., Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Program Director, University of Cincinnati Health

"These rising numbers of sick COVID patients places a significant burden on our hospital beds, our medical teams, and worse yet, it creates scenarios that no one wants to think about where we do not have the space for patients who would otherwise benefit from receiving their care at large academic medical centers. We now need the help of the people in our community more than ever so that no one else needs to die from this disease."

Alan Rivera, M.D., Hospitalist, Fulton County Health Center

"We are in a crisis mode. As compared to last year, our nursing staff is down probably 50 percent. We have nurses leaving the field, retiring early, or finding jobs elsewhere because of the long hours and the emotional strain. On top of that, our COVID numbers are now going up. In June and July I didn't see any COVID patients. Now, the majority of the census in our hospital are COVID patients, and they're younger, anywhere from 30 to 50."

Joe Bates, R.N., B.S.N., Clinical Coordinator, Critical Care Unit, Genesis HealthCare System (Zanesville)

"We're seeing the younger population being hit hardest with this right now. Our average age right now that we're seeing is around 59, with many of them being younger, as compared to last year when the average was about 78 years of age. Of the COVID positives that we currently have in the ICU, none of them are vaccinated who are on the ventilator."

Terri Alexander, R.N., P.C.C.N., Summa Health (Akron)

"It's just a sad, sad situation that we're dealing with, and it's tragic because it's just so preventable. Please, please, please, get vaccinated. We live in a culture that has never experienced coming to the hospital and getting turned away, and I think people can't fathom what that's truly like until its them or their family members who are coming in and getting turned away."

Free Rapid At-Home COVID-19 Tests Available for Ohioans

During August, 246 library locations provide more than 53,000 tests

September 7, 2021

COLUMBUS – Ohioans who are concerned about possibly contracting COVID-19 after a recent exposure can get free, rapid COVID-19 tests at many local libraries around the state. During August, 246 library locations provided more than 53,000 tests statewide.

Earlier this year, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) purchased 2 million rapid at-home tests with the intention of making the tests publicly accessible statewide. The state has partnered with local partners, including the Ohio Library Council and many of its member libraries, to make the tests available to anyone for any reason. Since February, the state has made nearly 160,000 tests available for libraries to provide to their communities.

“As the Delta variant spreads across the state and our students and teachers head back to school, there has been renewed interest in testing for COVID-19,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “These tests – and Ohio’s amazing network of public libraries – make it easier than ever for Ohioans to get tested and to ensure that we are limiting the spread of the Delta variant.”

The Abbott BinaxNOW Home Test can be provided to individuals for at-home use and is packaged with a telehealth session to oversee test administration and result reporting. Individuals who want to be tested will need to create an account using the NAVICA smartphone app or at www.mynavica.abbott. A person with a test should go to ohio.emed.com to start a testing session.

“Our mission is to be a community resource and providing these tests is a great fit," said Michelle Francis executive director of the Ohio Library Council. “Just about everyone knows where their local library is and it’s a trusted and welcoming place. Ohioans are accustomed to going to libraries for much more than books and we’re proud to make these available.”

Testing has been a critical part of Ohio’s response to COVID. Since purchasing the rapid at-home tests, Governor DeWine and ODH have been creating an infrastructure for rapid testing, including through many local health departments, schools, libraries, community health centers, and other community partners. Testing is now easier to access in Ohio than at any point during the pandemic, and unlike some of the uncomfortable tests that were available at the beginning of the pandemic, these tests are painless and can be conducted from the comfort of home.

“Until more people are vaccinated, testing will be an important tool, and we are committed to making it easy to access,” said Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, director of ODH. “Our partnerships with libraries to make the at-home rapid tests accessible and convenient are a real breakthrough in our ability to get as many Ohioans tested as possible.”

To find available tests, please visit https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/dashboards/other-resources/testing-ch-centers. Please keep in mind that demand for testing is very high, so please call ahead to make sure a test is available.

Ohio Department of Health Reminds Families That Best Protection Against COVID-19 is Vaccinations as Cases Increase

August 26, 2021

(COLUMBUS) – The Ohio Department of Health is reporting a large increase in COVID-19 cases over the last month across the state, including among students who are heading back to school. Statewide, the reported illness onset date of Monday, Aug. 23, showed 4,133 Ohioans with COVID-19, including 663 school-age Ohioans 5-18. One month prior on Friday, July 23, this data was 903 cases statewide, including 147 cases among Ohioans 5-18 – marking a 358% increase statewide, and a 351% increase among school-age Ohioans.

Similarly, weekly data from earlier in the summer, the week of July 4, 2021, shows 1,987 COVID-19 cases statewide, including 324 Ohioans ages 5-18. The most recent complete week of data, Aug. 15, 2021, shows 20,056 COVID-19 cases statewide, including 3,005 COVID-19 cases among those ages 5-18 – an increase of 909% among all Ohioans, and 827% among school-age Ohioans. As lab reports continue to be received, the data for the week of Aug. 15 could increase.

Today, the Ohio Department of Health is also reporting a statewide case rate of 338.1 per 100,000 residents, with every county in the state higher than 100 per 100,000 residents. Statewide, a total of 5,395 COVID-19 cases have been reported within the last 24 hours, similar to daily numbers that were seen in December and January during the winter surge of cases. The most recent date when a similar number of cases reported occurred on January 28, 2021, we reported an increase of 5,432 cases from the previous day.

“With many districts going back to school last week, the number of illnesses from Monday, Aug. 23 is troubling,” explained Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA. “As students statewide continue to return to their classrooms, this high figure should be yet another indicator to parents and families that the best protection from COVID-19 is for those 12 and older to choose to be vaccinated, and for those who aren’t vaccinated to wear masks.”

The Ohio Department of Health’s goal is to keep K-12 students in school, in-person five days a week. In-person learning is very important for the cognitive, social, and emotional development of our children, and can be conducted safely even in the face of COVID-19, particularly when schools employ layered prevention strategies including masking, social distancing, good ventilation and good hygiene practices, along with vaccination of our teachers and staff. Adopting layered prevention measures in schools now will help ensure students can learn in-person as much as possible this year, and keep children participating in extracurricular activities.

“COVID-19 vaccines are our best protection, and our way out of this pandemic,” Dr. Vanderhoff stated. “If you haven’t yet been vaccinated, talk to your doctor to get the facts. For those ages 12-17 who are eligible for the Pfizer vaccine, it takes 5 weeks to be fully vaccinated.”

August 24, 2021

Ohio Department of Health Announces 60% of Ohioans Ages 12 and Up Have Started the Vaccinated Process

Milestone Helps Reduce Opportunities for COVID-19 to Spread

(COLUMBUS) – More than 6 million Ohioans ages 12 and up have started the COVID-19 vaccination process, marking 60% of the population currently eligible for COVID-19 vaccines.

“As of today, more than 60% of Ohioans ages 12 and up have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. By highlighting vaccination rates among those 12 and older, we are reinforcing the importance of keeping kids in school,” explained Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA. “This is an important milestone because as more Ohioans gain robust immunity through vaccination, we reduce the opportunities for this virus to spread, mutate, and inflict serious harm—and we get closer to the day when this virus can no longer upend our lives. COVID-19 vaccines are our best protection, and our way out of this pandemic. If you haven’t yet been vaccinated, talk to your doctor to get the facts.”

Pfizer's COVID Vaccine Gets Full Approval From The FDA

Scott Hensley - NPR News

August 23, 2021

(Washington, D.C.) - The Food and Drug Administration has formally approved Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine. The widely anticipated decision replaces the emergency use authorization granted by the agency last December.

This is the first COVID-19 vaccine to be subject to a full review by the U.S. regulator and to get an approval that puts the vaccine on par with other marketed vaccines.

The full approval could make it easier for employers, the military and universities to mandate vaccination and may reassure some people who are hesitant about the vaccine.

"While this and other vaccines have met the FDA's rigorous, scientific standards for emergency use authorization, as the first FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccine, the public can be very confident that this vaccine meets the high standards for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality the FDA requires of an approved product," acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock said in a statement.

COVID-19 Update: Vaccinations Increasing,

Delta Variant, Local Efforts Encouraged

August 17, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Health Director Bruce Vanderhoff, M.D. today updated Ohioans about the state of the COVID-19 virus in Ohio.

“The spread of the Delta variant has dramatically accelerated since I last spoke 10 days ago. We are at the high level of cases since last February,” said Governor DeWine.

Today 3,235 positive COVID-19 cases were reported. To put that into context, there have been three days in the last week with more than 3,000 newly reported cases. Prior to the past week, there hasn’t been a single day with over 3,000 newly reported cases since February.

While vaccinations across the state continue, for children ages 12 to 17 years old, only 35% of them are currently vaccinated.

“The best way to make sure that your child can stay in school and not have his or her classes interrupted is for that child to be vaccinated. If that child cannot be vaccinated, then best way to ensure a good school year is for that child to wear a mask in class,” added Governor DeWine.

School officials making decisions about their district's mask policy should refer to the Ohio Department of Health's COVID-19 Health and Prevention Guidance for Ohio K-12 Schools released earlier this summer.

“Delta isn’t just a danger to adults. While children are less likely than adults to get severely ill from COVID-19, they are not invincible and most certainly can, and do, become ill. And, indeed, our children’s hospitals continue to see tragic cases of previously healthy children struck down by this virus and now requiring intensive medical care. And, of course, when either children or adults become sick from COVID-19, they can spread it to others who may then suffer severe health outcomes, or even death, said Dr. Vanderhoff. “The bottom line is that COVID-19 is a very bad virus, even for our children. Without question, vaccinations are the best protection one can have from COVID-19.”

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

Governor DeWine, Lt. Governor Husted Announce

$155 Million in Business Assistance Programs

June 25, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted today announced the launch of four grant programs to help small and medium-sized businesses recover from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

"These four new grant programs will help industries that experienced losses over the last year because of the pandemic,” said Governor DeWine. “Ohio’s economy is moving forward, and with new grant programs like the ones we are announcing today, we are optimistic that our economy will only continue to grow stronger from here."

The programs will provide $155 million in grant funding to businesses that opened in 2020, food and beverage establishments, entertainment venues, and lodging venues. The funds were made available by the Ohio General Assembly as part of Senate Bill 108 and Senate Bill 109, both of which Governor DeWine signed into law in May.

All four programs will be administered by the Ohio Development Services Agency (Development). Program guidelines, terms and conditions, and required documentation for all four programs are available now at BusinessHelp.Ohio.Gov. The applications will open on Tuesday, June 29, 2021.

“The focus of this funding is primarily on Ohio-owned, small businesses that are important contributors to their local economy and the quality of life for the people who live there,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “The grants will help these businesses buy equipment, hire more employees and make needed updates to their facilities, so they, and the communities they serve, can recover faster.”

Ohio Small Business Development Centers and Ohio Minority Business Assistance Centers are staffed with advisors who can help businesses with the application process.

“The investments we make through these programs will ensure the survival and stability of our small businesses,” said Director of Development Lydia Mihalik. “Our small business owners and entrepreneurs are the heart of our economy, and we’re optimistic about the future.”

COVID-19 Update: Vax-a-Million Winners, Youth Vaccinations, Death Data

June 24, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

OHIO VAX-A-MILLION

For yesterday's fifth and final Ohio Vax-a-Million drawing, 3,469,542 vaccinated adults entered for a chance to win $1 million, and 154,889 vaccinated youth entered for a chance to win a college scholarship. This is an increase of 41,028 adult entries and 4,702 youth entries over last week.

Ohio Vax-A-Million's newest winners joined Governor DeWine this morning to discuss why they chose to be vaccinated and their excitement of being selected during this week's drawing.

Experanza Diaz from Cincinnati won this week's $1 million prize, and Sydney Daum from Brecksville in Cuyahoga County won this week's college scholarship prize.

"I got the Pfizer vaccine, and I didn't have any side effects, I was completely OK," said Diaz. I would recommend it to everyone. I think it can save a lot of lives."

"We were always planning to get her vaccinated, but we were going to wait later in the summer to have her fully vaccinated by the time school started," said Jennifer Daum, Sydney's mother. "When (Governor DeWine) announced Vax-a-Million we thought this would be a good time to do it now, and we did, and we can't believe it paid off."

DoorDash, Kroger, and Giant Eagle will offer a new vaccine incentive program from Friday, June 25 through Wednesday, June 30. Ohioans vaccinated at the select grocery stores located below will receive a $25 DoorDash gift card.

Giant Eagle, 320 Market Drive, Elyria
Giant Eagle, 5744 Transportation Blvd., Garfield Heights
Giant Eagle, 41 5th Street SE, Barberton
Giant Eagle, 2032 Lincoln Way East, Massillon
Giant Eagle, 3050 W 117th Street, Cleveland
Giant Eagle, 484 E Waterloo Rd., Akron
Giant Eagle, 2173 Stringtown Rd., Grove City
Giant Eagle, 2900 Stelzer Rd., Columbus
Giant Eagle, 4780 West Broad St., Columbus
Giant Eagle, 1380 S 4th St., Columbus
Kroger, 7132 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati
Kroger, 8421 Winton Rd., Cincinnati
Kroger, 1 W Corry St., Cincinnati
Kroger, 6165 Glenway Ave., Cincinnati
Kroger, 3491 Northbend Rd., Cincinnati
Kroger, 2310 Ferguson Rd., Cincinnati
Kroger, 2161 Eakin Rd., Columbus
Kroger, 4485 Refugee Rd., Columbus
Kroger, 1745 Morse Rd., Columbus
Kroger, 3637 S High St., Columbus

YOUTH VACCINATIONS

Approximately 231,000 young Ohioans between 12 and 17 years old have started the vaccination process. Ohio is working to make sure other students have the opportunity to get their COVID-19 vaccine before school begins in the fall.

Statewide efforts include:

Outreach to schools. Schools have had multiple opportunities to partner with providers and offer vaccination clinics on-site for students. A survey of school districts across the state showed us that more than 200 districts plan to offer vaccination opportunities on-site.
Outreach through community organizations. Ohio has partnered with all Boys and Girls Clubs across the state to serve as vaccination sites. In addition, 67 local providers will be hosting vaccination clinics in partnership with summer food service programs for families.
Outreach through local providers. Ohio is working with pediatricians and family doctors to encourage them to become providers so that students can get the COVID-19 vaccine from their own doctors. Nearly 500 pediatric and family medicine offices are currently offering vaccinations. To increase awareness and encourage vaccinations, child-serving state agencies are distributing vaccine information to families and others in their communities.
Targeted, focused outreach to underserved areas. To increase access for students in underserved areas, Ohio will assist in expanding school-based healthcare services and increase the number of community-based health workers in high-need areas. Ohio will also offer vaccinations at all Job and Family Services offices that serve customers.

DEATH DATA

Even though Ohio's COVID-19 case numbers have been dropping, approximately 100 Ohioans a week are dying from this virus, and deaths are shifting to a younger age group.

During the winter surge, more than half of the people who died from COVID-19 in Ohio were 80 or older. Today, those ages 40 to 79 make up more than 65 percent of deaths.

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

Ohio mass vaccination information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/massvaccinationclinics

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

More vaccine information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine

Video of today's full update, including versions with foreign language translation, can be viewed on the Ohio Channel's YouTube page.

For more information on Ohio's response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

COVID-19 Update:

Vaccine Uptake, Vax-a-Million Winners

June 10, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

VACCINE UPTAKE

Ohio continues to see increases in vaccine uptake across the state following the announcement of the Ohio Vax-A-Million initiative that was launched last month to increase awareness of the availability and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines and provide incentives to Ohioans to get a COVID-19 vaccination.

Ohio counties that have experienced an increase in vaccinations include Hocking, Seneca, Ross, Jackson, Fayette, Paulding, Wyandot, Crawford, Warren, and Pickaway counties.

"Ohio continues to move forward into a new phase of the pandemic. Vaccinations are working. That's why cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are down. However, the threat of COVID-19 remains, and we must remain vigilant," said Governor DeWine. "If you're not vaccinated against COVID-19, please continue to wear a mask in public, and Ohioans who are able to get vaccinated should."

To find a vaccine provider near you, visit gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov.

OHIO VAX-A-MILLION

For yesterday's Ohio Vax-a-Million drawing, 3,362,203 vaccinated adults entered for a chance to win $1 million and 143,604 vaccinated youth entered for a chance to win a college scholarship. This is an increase in 136,414 adult entries and 10,701 youth entries over last week.

Ohio Vax-A-Million's newest winners joined Governor DeWine this morning to discuss why they chose to be vaccinated and their excitement of being selected during this week's drawing.

Mark Cline from Richwood in Union County won this week's $1 million prize, and Sara Afaneh from Sheffield Lake in Lorain County won this week's college scholarship prize.

"This is really good, but I think, more importantly, it's about getting the vaccine," said Cline. "I hope everyone makes that decision to get it and looks after their friends and neighbors."

"We feel so lucky and so blessed that we won, but we’re so lucky that we were able to access the vaccine," said Summer Afaneh, who is Sara's mother and is also a nurse. "As soon as the kids were old enough to get vaccinated, we signed up, and it was a very easy, seamless event for us with minimal side effects, so that's really what we are grateful and thankful for."

There are two more Ohio Vax-a-Million drawings left. For more information and to enter, visit ohiovaxamillion.com. Ohioans 18 and older who have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win a $1 million prize. Ohioans ages 12-17 who have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win a four-year college scholarship to any Ohio state college or university.

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

Ohio mass vaccination information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/massvaccinationclinics

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

More vaccine information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine

Video of today's full update, including versions with foreign language translation, can be viewed on the Ohio Channel's YouTube page.

For more information on Ohio's response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

Governor DeWine issues urgent appeal to COVID-19 vaccine providers, Ohioans: ‘The time to act is now.’

June 7, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—With approximately 200,000 doses of Johnson & Johnson vaccine in Ohio set to expire on June 23, Governor Mike DeWine issued an urgent communication to vaccine providers today asking them to distribute as many doses as possible to eligible Ohioans, as quickly as possible.

Governor DeWine also is appealing to Ohioans who have not been vaccinated yet: “The time to act is now.”

“For Ohioans who have been waiting to get their vaccine, I urge you to take action now. There are many opportunities throughout the state to get a vaccine,” Governor DeWine said. “The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is one of those options. It is safe and effective and only requires one shot. In just two weeks, you could be protected from this virus. Getting vaccinated is the quickest way out of the pandemic and the fastest way for us to return to the lives we remember.”

At this time, Ohio does not have legal options for sending the vaccine elsewhere, either to other states or other countries.

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has directed all providers to follow a first-in, first-out process for vaccine to ensure doses with the soonest expiration dates are being used first.

ODH also has been aggressively working with COVID-19 vaccine providers across the state to identify tactics to use as many doses of the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine before they expire. Some of these tactics include forming community partnerships to offer special vaccination clinics, offering more mobile vaccination opportunities in partnering with community groups at community events and for homebound individuals, and offering the vaccine as part of ongoing maintenance programs with congregate setting staff and residents, as well as correctional/detention centers.

More than 5.3 million Ohioans have started the COVID-19 vaccination process, and more than 4.7 million are fully vaccinated. On June 5, Ohio hit a benchmark we’ve long awaited: fewer than 50 cases per 100,000 residents in Ohio. While these are positive signs, the threat of COVID-19 still remains.

The risk of going unvaccinated impacts not only those who choose not to be vaccinated, but to those around them. Lower vaccination rates put children under 12, who don’t yet have a COVID-19 vaccine authorized for their age group, at risk, as well as the small percentage of Ohioans who can’t be vaccinated, or those with certain immune disorders. The more Ohioans who are vaccinated, the more we can protect ourselves, and one another.

All of the COVID-19 vaccines have been proven to be highly effective at preventing severe disease and against known variants. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is a single-dose vaccine for individuals ages 18 and older. Because the vaccine is available in one dose, you will be fully immunized just two weeks after receiving the vaccine. This means you can safely and quickly resume activities that you did prior to the pandemic.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is available at provider locations around the state, including local health departments, pharmacies and mass vaccination sites. Please visit gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov to find a provider near you and schedule an appointment. Most providers list the available vaccine on their websites and/or social media pages. Many providers will also accept walk-in appointments.

More information about the vaccine is available at coronavirus.ohio.gov.

COVID-19 Update: Vax-a-Million Winners, Status of Vaccinations in Ohio

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted today provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

OHIO VAX-A-MILLION

Ohio Vax-A-Million's newest winners joined Governor DeWine this morning to discuss why they chose to be vaccinated and their excitement of being selected during this week's drawing.

Jonathan Carlyle from Toledo in Lucas County won this week's $1 million prize, and Zoie Vincent from Mayfield Village in Cuyahoga County won this week's college scholarship prize.

"I actually had COVID-19, and it was the most sick I'd ever been," said Vincent. "(This) played a significant role in my decision to get a vaccination because, if I can guarantee that I'll never feel this way again or my family won't have to feel this way again, I felt like I would definitely take it, and so I did get the vaccine."

"My sister and her husband both came down with COVID, as well as his father who passed from COVID, and she was on me a lot to go and get the vaccination, and that played a very significant role in me getting my vaccination," said Carlyle. "I was putting it off a lot because I was working all the time, but I knew that I needed to get it and that I wanted to get it. When (Governor DeWine) announced Vax-a-Million, as soon as I heard that, a few days later I got the Johnson & Johnson shot."

Ohio Vax-a-Million is a public outreach campaign and initiative to increase awareness of the availability and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines and provide incentives to Ohioans to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Ohioans 18 and older who have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five $1 million prizes. Ohioans ages 12-17 who have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win a four-year college scholarship to any Ohio state college or university.

For more information and to enter visit ohiovaxamillion.com. To find a vaccine provider near you, visit gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov.

STATUS OF VACCINATIONS IN OHIO

More than 50 percent of Ohio's adult population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, however, Governor DeWine encouraged more Ohioans, especially those in the 18-59 age-range, to get vaccinated.

Despite the lift in pandemic-related restrictions, Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, chief medical officer at the Ohio Department of Health, reminded Ohioans that the unvaccinated, including everyone under the age of 12, are still at risk.

"COVID remains a very real danger to every unvaccinated Ohioan," said Dr. Vanderhoff. "We often think of COVID as being benign for children, but it is now one of the top 10 causes of death for children in the United States. Vaccination is our best protection against COVID, and we really owe it not just to ourselves to get vaccinated, but to all we care about, including those who are not yet able to be vaccinated. While it is true that younger Ohioans may not have the level of risk that older Ohioans have, bad things can happen to people of any age who get COVID-19."

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

Ohio mass vaccination information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/massvaccinationclinics

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

More vaccine information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine

Video of today's full update, including versions with foreign language translation, can be viewed on the Ohio Channel's YouTube page.

For more information on Ohio's response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

Ohio Department of Health Rescinds Pandemic Health Orders

Several Health Orders Remain in Effect

COLUMBUS – Beginning today (June 2, 2021), several pandemic health orders have been rescinded or lifted. This action removes several statewide requirements enacted to protect the health and safety of Ohioans during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the statewide mask mandate. Some orders, including those for nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other congregate settings, remain in effect.

The following orders will remain in effect:

- Order to Require Screening for Admission to State Operated Psychiatric Hospitals or to Department of Youth Services Facilities signed March 14, 2020.
- The Director’s Order Designating The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center a Public Health Laboratory signed March 27, 2020.
- The Director’s Order to Facilities to Notify Residents, Guardians and Sponsor of Positive or Probable Cases of COVID-19 signed April 15, 2020.
- The Director’s Order Requiring Reporting and Notification Regarding COVID-19 Cases in Kindergarten through Twelfth Grade signed September 3, 2020.
- The Director of Health’s Order Designating Dayton Children’s Hospital as a Public Health Laboratory signed December 23, 2020.
- The Director’s Seventh Amended Order to Permit Access to Ohio’s Nursing Homes, with Exceptions signed March 22, 2021.
- The Amended Director’s Order to Permit Access to Ohio’s Residential Care Facilities, with Exceptions signed March 22, 2021.
- The Director’s Amended Order for the Testing of the Residents and Staff of all Residential Care Facilities signed May 4, 2021.
- The Director’s Amended Order for the Testing of the Residents and Staff of all Nursing Homes signed May 4, 2021.

Fully vaccinated individuals, defined as those who are two weeks past the final dose, can safely resume most activities, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance. Businesses, workplaces, and schools are permitted to continue to require masking or social distancing protocols at their discretion to keep customers, employees, and students safe. A federal transportation mask mandate will remain in place through Sept. 13 on commercial flights, trains, buses, boats and in terminals. In addition, the CDC continues to recommend masking in certain circumstances, regardless of whether someone is fully vaccinated, including in healthcare settings and other forms of public transportation. Upon entry to a business, school, or healthcare facility, Ohioans should be prepared to follow certain policies related to masking, social distancing, and handwashing.

Although not required, the CDC recommends those who have not been fully vaccinated to continue to wear masks indoors to protect themselves and others. The CDC offers guidance for practicing masking and social distancing for different activities for both those who are vaccinated and unvaccinated in the “Choosing Safer Activities” guide.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines at coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine, or find an appointment near you at gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov. Walk-in appointments are available at many providers statewide. To speak with a representative to answer questions or book an appointment by phone, call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).

Governor DeWine Reminds Unvaccinated Ohioans to Continue Wearing Masks

June 1, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today reminded Ohioans of the importance of getting vaccinated against COVID-19 and for those that are not fully-vaccinated to wear masks indoors, as statewide mask mandates lift tomorrow.

“Ohioans have done a great job during the pandemic. And, with more than 5 million Ohioans who have received at least the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, we are getting back to living the lives we want. However, it is important that we all still remember that there are a significant number of Ohioans who remain unvaccinated and are at-risk, including everyone under the age of 12. It’s important that those not fully vaccinated continue to wear masks indoors and follow other preventative measures to keep themselves as healthy as possible,” said Governor Mike DeWine.

More than 5.3 million Ohioans have received their first vaccinations and 4.6 million have completed the vaccination series.

An individual is considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose of Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines or two weeks after the single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

For businesses and organizations looking to update signage in their facilities, appropriate signs are available at coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohioans can find the vaccination site nearest them at gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Vax-a-Million Winner Announcement Set for Wednesday at 7:29 p.m.

Ohio Lottery conducts second Vax-a-Million drawing

June 1, 2021

CLEVELAND – The Ohio Lottery conducted the second of five Ohio Vax-a-Million drawings at the Ohio Lottery’s draw studio in Cleveland Monday.

This week’s drawing included 3,225,789 adult entries in the drawing for $1 million, and 132,903 Ohioans age 12 to 17 entered the drawing for a college scholarship. That marks an increase of 467,320 adult entries and 28,518 scholarship entries from the previous week.

The drawing was conducted using a Random Number Generator and observed by a representative of the Ohio Auditor of State. Take a look at the process at https://youtu.be/1VWvj3KV8wU.

Results of the drawing were provided to the Ohio Department of Health to verify the winners ahead of the Wednesday, June 2, 2021 winner announcement at 7:29 p.m. Broadcast stations across the state will be provided with coordinates to air the winner announcement statewide.

With more than 5.3 million Ohioans who have started the vaccination process, not all who are eligible have entered. Ohio Vax-a-Million is an opt-in program, meaning you are not automatically entered. It takes less than two minutes to enter online at ohiovaxamillion.com. Those without Internet access can also enter by phone at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).

Once you enter, your entry will be carried over through all the drawings. You do not need to submit your name each week. The entry list will be reviewed, and all duplicate entries will be removed prior to each week’s drawing. In addition, any winner will be removed from the eligible draw list for subsequent drawings. Vaccination records will be verified for winners. If you are an Ohio resident who was vaccinated in another state, you are eligible, but will need to present poof of vaccination.

Winners are announced each Wednesday, starting May 26, at approximately 7:29 p.m., for five weeks. You can view the announcement of last week’s winners at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MD9tJvnmpk4. The final announcement will take place on Wednesday, June 23.

Ohio Vax-a-Million is a public outreach campaign and initiative to increase awareness of the availability and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines and provide incentives to Ohioans to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Ohioans 18 and older who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five $1 million prizes. Ohioans ages 12-17 who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five four-year, full-ride scholarships, including room and board, tuition, and books, to any Ohio state college or university. More information is available at ohiovaxamillion.com.

Ohio Public Health Advisory System Canceled

May 27, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) - Ohio Department of Health Director Stephanie McCloud announced the cancellation, effective immediately, of the Ohio Public Health Advisory System. The statewide alert system launched in July 2020 to assess the degree of COVID-19 spread by county and provide data to help guide individuals, businesses, schools, communities, local governments, and others in their response and actions during the pandemic.

As cases decline and vaccinations increase, this data is no longer the best measure of Ohio’s current status.

The Ohio Department of Health will continue to share COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, deaths, current trends, key metrics, and vaccination data daily at coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio’s First Vax-a-Million Drawing Winners Announced

$1 Million Winner and Student Scholarship winner Announced during Statewide Broadcast

May 26, 2021

CLEVELAND – The Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Lottery would like to congratulate the winners of Ohio’s first Vax-a-Million drawing.

Abbigail Bugenske from Silverton in Hamilton County won the first $1 million prize.

Joseph Costello from Englewood in Montgomery County won the first student full-ride scholarship including four years tuition, books, and room and board at an Ohio public university or college.

The winners were selected in the drawing conducted by the Ohio Lottery and overseen by the Ohio Auditor of State on Monday, May 24, 2021.

“We’re excited that this has inspired so many Ohioans to get vaccinated, and we’re thrilled to announce the winners of the first round of drawings,” said Governor Mike DeWine.

2,758,470 Ohioans entered the drawing to win $1 million prize, and 104,386 Ohioans age 12 to 17 entered to the drawing for a college scholarship.

The entry period for the next Ohio Vax-a-Million drawing ends May 30, 2021 at 11:59:59 p.m.

With more than 5.1 million Ohioans who have started the vaccination process, not all who are eligible have entered. Ohio Vax-a-Million is an opt-in program, meaning you are not automatically entered. It takes less than two minutes to enter online at ohiovaxamillion.com. Those without Internet access can also enter by phone at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).

Winners will be announced each Wednesday, starting May 26, at approximately 7:29 p.m., for five weeks. The final announcement will take place on Wednesday, June 23.

Ohio Vax-a-Million is a public outreach campaign and initiative to increase awareness of the availability and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines and provide incentives to Ohioans to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Ohioans 18 and older who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five $1 million prizes. Ohioans ages 12-17 who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five four-year, full-ride scholarships, including room and board, tuition, and books, to any Ohio state college or university. More information is available at ohiovaxamillion.com.

Ohio Lottery Conducts First Ohio Vax-a-Million Drawing

Winner Announcement set for Wednesday at 7:29 p.m.

May 25, 2021

CLEVELAND – The Ohio Lottery conducted the first of five Ohio Vax-a-Million drawings at the Ohio Lottery’s draw studio in Cleveland today.

The drawing included 2,758,470 adult entries in the drawing for $1 million, and 104,386 Ohioans age 12 to 17 entered the drawing for a college scholarship.

The drawing was conducted using a Random Number Generator and observed by a representative of the Ohio Auditor of State. Take a look at the process at https://youtu.be/1VWvj3KV8wU.

Results of the drawing were provided to the Ohio Department of Health to verify the winners ahead of the Wednesday, May 26, 2021 winner announcement at 7:29 p.m. Broadcast stations across the state will be provided with coordinates to air the winner announcement statewide.

Winners will be announced each Wednesday, starting May 26, at approximately 7:29 p.m., for five weeks. The final announcement will take place on Wednesday, June 23.

Ohio Vax-a-Million is a public outreach campaign and initiative to increase awareness of the availability and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines and provide incentives to Ohioans to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Ohioans 18 and older who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five $1 million prizes. Ohioans ages 12-17 who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five four-year, full-ride scholarships, including room and board, tuition, and books, to any Ohio state college or university. More information is available at ohiovaxamillion.com.

COVID-19 Update: Vax-a-Million, Medicaid Vaccine Uptake, Isolation/Quarantine

May 24, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

VAX-A-MILLION UPDATE

Governor DeWine announced today that Ohio continues to see increased uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine following the announcement of the Ohio Vax-a-Million promotion.

From May 14 through May 19 as compared to May 7 through May 12, vaccinations in Ohio increased 94 percent among those 16 and 17 years old, 46 percent among those 18 and 19 years old, and 55 percent among those between 20 and 49 years old.

In total, 2,758,470 individual Ohioans have registered for the $1 million Vax-a-Million drawing and 104,386 young Ohioans have registered for the scholarship drawings. Ohio's first Vax-a-Million drawing will take place at 7:29 p.m. on Wednesday, May 26.

Registration for this Wednesday's drawing ended at midnight but vaccinated Ohioans can register for subsequent drawings at ohiovaxamillion.com or by calling 833-4-ASK-ODH. Once you register, your entry will be carried over for future drawings; Ohio Lottery will remove duplicate entries.

VACCINE UPTAKE AMONG OHIO MEDICAID BENEFICIARIES

Governor DeWine called on managed care companies to continue efforts to increase vaccine uptake among Ohio Medicaid beneficiaries. Right now, the vaccine uptake among Medicaid beneficiaries is 22 percent as compared to a 45 percent uptake among Ohioans overall.

Governor DeWine initially challenged managed care plans to implement new efforts earlier this month, and since then, new efforts include:

Partnering with pharmacies and providing incentives, such as gift cards, to those on Medicaid who are vaccinated at a pharmacy.
Incentivizing pharmacists to counsel those picking up prescriptions about vaccinations.
Working with local health departments, community providers, and faith-based initiatives to help spread the word about vaccination events to those on Medicaid.
Providing staff to help run vaccination events when needed and providing transportation to make sure people can get to and from the vaccination locations.
Tailoring strategies to meet people where they are, such as identifying individuals who can’t leave their homes and working with providers to go to these locations to administer vaccinations.
Working with providers to help them create vaccine opportunities outside of normal business hours.

ISOLATION AND QUARANTINE

Governor DeWine today clarified information about isolation and quarantine in regard to Ohio's school students.

Beginning on June 2 and in accordance with CDC guidance, vaccinated children do not have to quarantine or be tested if they are exposed to COVID-19. Unvaccinated children who are exposed to COVID-19 should quarantine if the exposure took place outside of a classroom setting where masks were required to be worn. Unvaccinated children should also isolate if they test positive for the coronavirus. Local health departments should determine if quarantine or isolation should occur.

"While these are not state health orders, isolation and quarantine are standard infection control practices that have been used successfully for hundreds of years," said Governor DeWine. "These practices are the same practices that are used for many other communicable diseases including measles and mumps."

Individual school districts will decide whether or not to continue masking and social distancing in school settings.

NEXT ROUND OF TECHCRED

Lt. Governor Jon Husted announced today that the next round of TechCred opens on June 1^st and closes on June 30 at 3:00 p.m.

Ohio businesses can visit TechCred.Ohio.gov to apply and help their employees earn a short-term, technology-focused credential at no cost. Not only can businesses upskill their current employees, but they can upskill those they plan to hire as long as they are on the payroll at the time of reimbursement.

More than 1,100 Ohio businesses have used TechCred, creating the opportunity for 19,841 technology-focused credentials to be earned by Ohio employees.

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

Ohio mass vaccination information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/massvaccinationclinics

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

More vaccine information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine

Video of today's full update, including versions with foreign language translation, can be viewed on the Ohio Channel's YouTube page.

For more information on Ohio's response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

Ohioans Warned to Beware of Scams Seeking Private Information

Do Not Provide Social Security Number, Private Information to Unknown Sources

May 21, 2021

- There are only two ways to enter Ohio Vax-a-Million: online at ohiovaxamillion.com, and by phone at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634). Do not follow suspicious URLs or call other phone numbers to enter.
- Do not provide social security numbers or other private information. The ohiovaxamillion.com registration asks for basic contact information (name, email address, phone number), date of birth, and where you received your vaccination. It does not ask for your social security number, credit card information, or banking information.
- You will hear about the drawing in many ways –by email, coverage in the news media, in text messages to Ohio Lottery text message subscribers (from number 91011), and messages from local health departments or business organizations. In addition to these legitimate sources of information, you could receive outreach from scammers. Some signs that the message you have received might be suspicious are:

- - Misspelled words.
  - Incorrect grammar.
  - References to a “sweepstakes.”
  - The “from” email address looks suspicious.
  - The URL listed is not ohiovaxamillion.com, or when you hover over the URL with your mouse, a different URL appears.
  - The phone number listed is not 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).

- Do not reply to an email, text message, or social media direct message with your personal information. only share your entry information at ohiovaxamillion.com or by phone at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).
- It is free to enter the Ohio Vax-a-Million drawings. You will not be asked to provide credit card or bank account information to enter the drawings.
- If a source looks suspicious, open a new browser tab and type the URL manually: ohiovaxamillion.com. If you ever have a question about an email, text message, social media message, or phone call, contact the Ohio Department of Health’s Call Center at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).

As of today, millions of Ohioans have entered the Ohio Vax-a-Million drawings.

Ohio Vax-a-Million is a public outreach campaign and initiative to increase awareness of the availability and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines and provide incentives to Ohioans to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Ohioans 18 and older who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five $1 million prizes. Ohioans ages 12-17 who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five four-year, full-ride scholarships, including room and board, tuition, and books, to any Ohio state college or university. More information is available at ohiovaxamillion.com.

Ohio Vax-a-Million Drives Increase in Vaccination Across State

Opportunity leads to more than 28% increase in Ohio vaccination rates among Ohioans 16 and older

May 20, 2021

COLUMBUS – Since its announcement May 13, the Vax-a-Million campaign has helped drive an increase in vaccination rates among Ohioans 16 and older by more than 28 percent.

According to Ohio Department of Health data, vaccinations in those ages 16 and older:

· Dropped by 25% the weekend of May 7 to May 10, compared to the weekend of April 30 to May 3.

· Increased by 28% for the same age group from May 14 to May 17, the weekend following the announcement of the Vax-a-Million drawings.

“This dramatic increase in vaccinations indicates that the Vax-a-Million drawing has been impactful in creating momentum for vaccinations throughout Ohio,” said Stephanie McCloud, Director of the Ohio Department of Health. “We are grateful that the drawings are helping spur Ohioans to take this important measure to protect their health, their loved ones, and their community. Vaccines are our best tool to return to the lives we remember from before the pandemic.”

In addition to the more than 1 million entries for the 18 and older drawing, tens of thousands of entries have been received for the youth scholarship opportunities for those who are 12-17 who have received at least a first dose of the Pfizer vaccine.

Ohio Vax-a-Million is a public outreach campaign and initiative to increase awareness of the availability and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines and provide incentives to Ohioans to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Ohioans 18 and older who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five $1 million prizes. Ohioans ages 12-17 who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five four-year, full-ride scholarships, including room and board, tuition, and books, to any Ohio state college or university. More information is available at ohiovaxamillion.com.

All Ohioans age 12 and older are currently eligible to be vaccinated. Ohioans can find additional vaccination opportunities and schedule appointments by visiting gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov or by calling 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634). Walk-in appointments are available at many providers statewide. Anyone with questions regarding COVID-19 vaccination within the state of Ohio can learn more at coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine.

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Ohio Department of Health Notes Increasing Vaccination Rates

Interest in Ohio Vax-a-Million Continues to Grow

May 19, 2021

COLUMBUS –The Ohio Lottery and the Ohio Department of Health are reporting that approximately 1 million entries have been collected, and that preliminary data shows vaccination rates continue to grow.

“Governor DeWine’s announcement of Ohio Vax-a-Million one week ago today was exactly what we needed to reinvigorate interest in receiving COVID-19 vaccines,” said Ohio Department of Health Director Stephanie McCloud. “After the announcement, our preliminary data shows that more than 113,000 Ohioans have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccines.”

By comparison, during the same time period the previous week (Thursday, May 6, through Tuesday, May 11, compared to the recent period of Thursday, May 13 through Tuesday, May 18), approximately 74,000 Ohioans had received their first dose, meaning the recent period marks a 53% increase from the time period before the announcement.

In addition, each day between Thursday, May 13, and Monday, May 17, shows a higher number of vaccinations than the same day the previous week. Several of those mark the highest in multiple consecutive weeks, including:

Friday, May 14: Highest Friday in four weeks.
Sunday, May 16: Highest Sunday in four weeks.
Monday, May 17: Highest Monday in four weeks.

“We are seeing increasing numbers in all age groups, except those 80 and older, who are highly vaccinated already,” added Director McCloud. “Although the rate among that group is decreasing, it is doing so at a less rapid pace, demonstrating some positive impact even in that group.”

The recent addition of those age 12-15 accounts for 37,771 first doses administered since last Thursday; the remaining 67% of first doses were administered to those age 16 or older.

Ohio Vax-a-Million is a public outreach campaign and initiative to increase awareness of the availability and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines and provide incentives to Ohioans to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Ohioans 18 and older who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five $1 million prizes. Ohioans ages 12-17 who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five four-year, full-ride scholarships, including room and board, tuition, and books, to any Ohio state college or university. More information is available at ohiovaxamillion.com.

The Vax-a-Million Registration Website is Up and Running

May 18, 2021

(Columbus, OHIO) - Ohioans 18 and older who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five $1 million prizes. Ohioans ages 12-17 who have received a received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can enter to win one of five four-year, full-ride scholarships, including room and board, tuition, and books, to any Ohio state college or university.

Beginning today Ohioans who would like to enter the drawings must opt-in by visiting https://ohiovaxamillion.com/ or by calling the Ohio Department of Health Call Center at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634) between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily. Once an Ohioan enters, their entry will be carried over through all the drawings; it is not necessary to enter each week. The entry list will be reviewed, and duplicate entries will be removed prior to each week’s drawing. A winner must meet all of the following eligibility requirements:

Must be a living citizen of the United States and a permanent resident of the State of Ohio.
Must be at least 12 years of age.
Must not be incarcerated (in prison or jail) for a felony conviction under the laws of this state, another state, or the United States.
Must not be an employee or Officer of the Ohio Lottery Commission, the Ohio Department of Health or the Ohio Governor's Office, or any blood relative or spouse of such an employee or officer living as a member of the employee's or officer's household.
Must have received at least the first COVID-19 vaccination if receiving the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or one dose if receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, prior to the drawing date.

Vaccination records will be verified for winners. Winners will be announced each Wednesday, starting May 26, at approximately 7:29 p.m., for five weeks. To be eligible to be announced as a winner on a given Wednesday, an Ohio resident must enter by the end of day the Sunday immediately prior. Official rules, frequently asked questions, and a list of entry end dates, drawing dates, announcement dates, and a list of TV stations that will air the announcement, is available at https://ohiovaxamillion.com/. The final announcement will take place on Wednesday, June 23.

COVID-19 Update: New Health Order, Youth Vaccination FAQs, Vax-a-Million Update, Resources for Ohio Employers

May 17, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

NEW HEALTH ORDER

Today, the Ohio Department of Health amended its remaining health order to conform to the new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance, which allows those who have been vaccinated to stop wearing masks. Under the CDC's new guidance, those who have not been vaccinated should still wear a mask and socially distance.

Ohio's order reflects the CDC's recommendation that everyone wear masks when in a healthcare setting, when traveling on public transportation (including airplanes), and when at a business or employer that chooses to require masks.

The CDC recommendations make clear that businesses will be able to choose for themselves whether they continue to require masks in their premises. If a business chooses to require masking for employees and customers, that is permitted under the CDC guidance and Ohio's order. If a business chooses not to require masks and leave that choice to customers and employees, that is also permitted in the CDC guidance and Ohio's order.

As advised by the CDC, Ohio's order also continues to require masking in congregate settings, such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities, and in settings with large numbers of unvaccinated individuals, such as schools and daycare centers.

YOUTH VACCINATION FAQs

The Ohio Department of Health has created a new Frequently Asked Questions document to answer common questions from parents, guardians, and youth about COVID-19 vaccines.

The document shares information about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine, parental consent, where children can be vaccinated, and more.

Just like adults, youth can be vaccinated at many locations across the state that are offering the Pfizer vaccine. This vaccine is available at Children’s Hospitals, as well as a number of regular hospitals, local health departments, retail pharmacies, community health centers, primary care physicians, and some pediatricians.

Parents who would like their child to be vaccinated at their pediatrician's office are encouraged to call the office first and ask if they are administering the Pfizer vaccine. Pediatricians that are not yet registered to be vaccine providers are encouraged to sign up. Pediatricians and other potential vaccine providers can find more information at odh.ohio.gov.

VAX-A-MILLION UPDATE

Governor DeWine announced today that the Ohio Vax-a-Million drawing will be an opt-in program. Starting tomorrow, Ohioans will be asked to register for the drawings by visiting OhioVaxaMillion.com or by calling the Ohio Department of Health at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

Detailed information about the drawings is available in this press release from the Ohio Department of Health and Ohio Lottery.

RESOURCES FOR OHIO EMPLOYERS

As Ohio’s economy recovers, businesses continue to experience difficulty filling open positions. Lt. Governor Husted today outlined the process for employers to report work refusals on the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) website. This includes jfs.ohio.gov, unemployment.ohio.gov, and OhioMeansJobs.com.

Because of the wide availability of both jobs and the vaccine in the state, ODJFS now has several buttons featured prominently on their websites for employers to report former employees who are receiving unemployment but have refused offers of suitable work.

Ohio law states that individuals are not entitled to unemployment benefits if they have resigned or have declined an offer of suitable work by filling out the “Eligibility Notice/Refusal to Return to Work Form.”

Employers reporting work refusals should be prepared to provide their name, email address, Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), claimant name, claimant ID or the last four digits of the claimant’s Social Security number, and additional details about the specific situation.

ODJFS will then investigate and send both parties an appealable determination on whether the quit or work refusal was for good cause.

Ohio law states that individuals are not entitled to unemployment benefits if they have resigned or have declined an offer of suitable work without “good cause."

Individuals can visit OhioMeansJobs.com or contact their local OhioMeansJobs center to find and apply for job openings, take skill and career interest assessments, create or improve their resume, or practice interviewing.

OhioMeansJobs.com currently lists more than 180,000 job openings, and nearly 95,000 of them pay more than $50,000 per year.

To find contact information for your nearest OhioMeansJobs center, visit OhioMeansJobs.com and select “FIND A JOB CENTER” at the bottom of the page or call 1-888-296-7541.

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

Ohio mass vaccination information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/massvaccinationclinics

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

More vaccine information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine

Video of today's full update, including versions with foreign language translation, can be viewed on the Ohio Channel's YouTube page.

For more information on Ohio's response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

Governor DeWine Statement on New CDC Mask Guidance

May 14, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued the following statement directing the Ohio Department of Health to conform the remaining health orders to CDC guidance through June 2nd:

“Ohio will be amending our remaining health orders to comply with the new CDC guidance, which says that those who have been vaccinated no longer need to wear masks, while those who have not been vaccinated should still wear a mask and socially distance.

"The CDC still recommends everyone wear masks when they are in a healthcare setting, when they are travelling on public transportation, including airplanes, and when they are in a business or employer that chooses to require masks. Our order will be amended to reflect these recommendations, as well.

“The most powerful tool we have to protect against the COVID-19 virus is the vaccine. Because of the vaccine, COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are decreasing dramatically. The vaccine allows us to live our lives more normally and without fear.

“As I said in my address to Ohioans on Wednesday, the more individuals who get vaccinated, the more the entire state is protected from the virus. The vaccine is our path out of the pandemic, and it is our best protection against the virus. We are on the offense, and the science is unequivocal: Vaccines are our best weapon to fight COVID-19 and save lives!

“However, not all Ohioans have been vaccinated yet. The June 2nd date I announced for the removal of health orders provided time for those who had not yet gotten their vaccine to get it. While our order will be amended to reflect the new CDC guidance, it will remain in place until June 2nd.

“Further, we must remember, that we still have Ohioans who are not eligible to be vaccinated, including those younger than 12 years-of-age. Individuals who have not been vaccinated should continue to wear masks pursuant to CDC recommendations. Businesses also have every right to continue to use masks and to require them for employees and customers. The experience in other states has been that some individuals may choose to wear masks, and many businesses, schools, hospitals, and other employers may choose to require masks in their buildings. That will remain their choice.

“Regardless of the new CDC guidance, this fact remains clear: The most powerful thing anyone can do to end this pandemic is to get vaccinated.”

COVID-19 Update: Ohio Vax-a-Million, Kids Vaccination, Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation

May 13, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

OHIO VAX-A-MILLION

In Wednesday's statewide evening address, Governor DeWine detailed a series of statewide drawings to provide incentives for Ohioans to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Ohioans aged 18 and older will be entered into "Ohio Vax-a-Million," a weekly drawing with a prize of up to $1 million.

The pool of names for the "Ohio Vax-a-Million" drawing will be derived from the Ohio Secretary of State's publicly available voter registration database. Additionally, a webpage will be available to register.

A total of five weekly drawings for each prize will take place, with the first winners being announced May 26th. Winners must have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine by the date of the respective drawing.

The drawings will be administered by the Ohio Department of Health, with technical assistance from the Ohio Lottery Commission, and will be funded through existing allocations to the Ohio Department of Health of unexpended coronavirus relief funds.

KIDS VACCINATION

Governor DeWine announced COVID-19 Pfizer vaccinations are now available to Ohio's youth age 12 years and older, following members of the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended the use of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for this age group.

Additionally, Ohioans 17 and under who are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccination will be entered into a drawing for a full, four-year scholarship to any of Ohio's state colleges and universities, including full tuition, room and board, and books. A total of five weekly drawings for a full, four-year scholarship will take place, with the first winner being announced on May 26th. A webpage will be available to register those who qualify.

FEDERAL PANDEMIC UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION

Governor DeWine today announced that the administration will inform the U.S. Department of Labor that Ohio intends to stop participation in the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program on June 26, 2021.

"When the program was put in place, it was a lifeline for many Americans at a time when the only weapon we had in fighting the virus was through social distancing, masking, and sanitization," said Governor DeWine. "This is no longer the case as we now have an abundant supply of vaccines."

The FPUC program gave states funding to offer enhanced unemployment benefits, including an additional $600, and now an additional $300.

“As companies around the globe begin to expand and make new investments coming out of the pandemic, the ability to provide a workforce is emerging as the primary factor in their decisions,” said Lt. Governor Husted. “States that can favorably respond are going to win the jobs that will employ people for years to come.”

Several business associations shared quotes of support regarding this announcement.

RECOVERY-FRIENDLY TRAINING MODULES

Lt. Governor Husted today announced that the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), RecoveryOhio, the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation, the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, and Working Partners^®have partnered together to create three new Recovery-Friendly Training Modules.

These training modules will help employers develop their own approach to hiring and retaining employees who are in recovery. The new Recovery-Friendly Training Modules can be found at RecoveryOhio.gov in addition to the five previously launched modules by the Ohio Chamber of Commerce in 2017.

NATIONAL POLICE WEEK

The Lt. Governor also highlighted National Police Week, which runs through Saturday, by recognizing the service and sacrifice of Ohio’s law enforcement officers.

NEW PSA

Governor DeWine introduced a new public service announcement today that encourages Ohioans to get vaccinated, featuring Cleveland Browns Coach Kevin Stefanski.

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

Ohio mass vaccination information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/massvaccinationclinics

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

More vaccine information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine

Video of today's full update, including versions with foreign language translation, can be viewed on the Ohio Channel's YouTube page.

For more information on Ohio's response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

Governor DeWine Announces Vaccine Incentives, End Date for Health Orders

May 12, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine on Wednesday announced a series of statewide drawings to provide incentives to Ohioans to get a COVID-19 vaccination. With wide access to the life-saving vaccine to help Ohioans safe, Governor DeWine also announced that most COVID-19 health orders would be removed on June 2nd. DeWine made the announcements during a statewide address to Ohioans Wednesday evening.

“For a year, Ohioans have made sacrifices to save lives and keep our state moving forward. What you have done has really worked! And now, we have a powerful weapon that is almost 100 percent effective in beating the virus," Governor DeWine said in his remarks. "Simply put, the vaccine is stronger and better than medical experts ever imagined. And now, everyone 12 and over can use it to protect themselves -- to put an invisible shield of protection around themselves. Everyone can now control their own health—their own destiny.”

Vaccine Incentives/Statewide Drawings

In an effort to increase the number of Ohioans who currently have not taken a COVID-19 vaccine to get vaccinated, Governor DeWine announced a series of statewide drawings to help incentivize vaccinations.

Ohioans under the age of 18 who are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine will be entered into a drawing for a four-year full scholarship to any of Ohio's state colleges and universities, including full tuition, room, and board.

Ohioans aged 18 and older will be entered into a weekly drawing with a prize of up to $1 million.

A total of five weekly drawings for each prize will take place, with the first winners being announced on May 26th. Winners must have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine by the date of the respective drawing.

Further details and contest rules will be announced by the Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Lottery Commission next week during a briefing to news media.

Expiration of Health Orders

Governor DeWine also announced that he has asked the Ohio Department of Health to remove most pandemic health orders on June 2nd. The timeline will allow any Ohioan who has not yet received a COVID-19 vaccine to obtain one to protect themselves and others before the lifting of coronavirus mitigation protocols.

“It is time to end the health orders. It’s been a year. You’ve followed the protocols. You’ve done what we’ve asked. You’ve bravely fought this virus," said Governor DeWine. "And now, our cases are down, and we have a tested and proven weapon with the vaccine that all Ohioans 12 and over can utilize.”

Measures being removed will include facial covering protocols, social distancing guidelines, and capacity restrictions for indoor and outdoor events.

Governor DeWine announced that any pandemic health orders that would remain solely relate to either 1.) nursing homes and assisted living facilities, which will also to have federal safety protocols, and 2.) data collection related to the pandemic.

Governor DeWine's Statewide Address Remarks

A copy of Governor DeWine's statewide address remarks (as prepared) is available in PDF format via this link.

Governor Signs Ohio House Bill 167

May 11, 2021

(Columbus, OHIO) - Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today signed House Bill 167, sponsored by Rep. Scott Oelslage of North Canton, which provides $465 million in rent and utility assistance to low-income households impacted by the COVID19 pandemic.

To learn more go to: https://bit.ly/3hhndNq

FDA Approves Pfizer Vaccine for Ages 12 to 15

May 10, 2021

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued this statement following the approval by the Food and Drug Administration's to administer the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to those ages 12-15:

"I am encouraged that the FDA has already updated Pfizer’s Emergency Use Authorization to include youth ages 12-15. Following a recommendation, as soon as Wednesday, from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the CDC, Ohio will immediately expand vaccine eligibility to youth ages 12-15 and provide appropriate guidance for parents, guardians, and vaccine providers across the state. Vaccinations are our way back to a more normal life."

The Scioto County Health Department is taking names of any children age 12 and older that want the vaccine.

Parents or guardians should call the health department at 740-302-3801 to reserve your child's vaccinations.

Ohio's Mass Vaccination Clinic in Cleveland to Offer Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Next Week

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced today that Ohio's state-federal mass vaccination clinic in downtown Cleveland will offer the Johnson & Johnson vaccine next week. Anyone age 18 or older may receive the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine from Tuesday, May 11, through Monday, May 17.

The clinic, located at Cleveland State University's Wolstein Center at 2000 Prospect Avenue, accepts walk-ins from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Appointments can also be booked online at gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov or by calling 833-4-ASK-ODH.

The mass vaccination clinic, which is operating in partnership between the state of Ohio, Federal Emergency Management Agency, City of Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and Cleveland State University, launched in mid-March. In its first six weeks of operations, more than 237,000 first and second doses of the Pfizer vaccine were administered.

The clinic will continue offering first doses of the Pfizer vaccine to anyone age 16 or older through Monday, May 10. Second doses of the Pfizer vaccine will be administered beginning on Tuesday, May 18, for those who received their first doses of vaccine at the Wolstein Center in late April and early May.

Current Wolstein Center Mass Vaccination Clinic Timeline:

Tuesday, March 16 - Monday, April 5: Pfizer first doses
Tuesday, April 6 - Monday, April 26: Pfizer second doses
Tuesday, April 27 - Monday, May 10: Pfizer first doses
Tuesday, May 11 - Monday, May 17: Johnson & Johnson single doses
Tuesday, May 18 - Monday, May 31: Pfizer second doses

The clinic may extend beyond May 31 if demand for vaccine in a mass vaccination setting warrants that the clinic continue. There are currently more than 1,100 other local area providers offering vaccines across the state.

Administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine was paused in Ohio last month as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization conducted a thorough review of extremely rare blood-clotting events reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System. The CDC and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allowed use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine to resume on April 23 after comprehensive analysis found that the benefits of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine outweigh the risks. Providers in Ohio were permitted to immediately resume administering the Johnson & Johnson vaccine provided they continue to follow all guidance by the CDC and FDA.

Health Orders Signed

May 4, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today announced that Ohio Department of Health Director Stephanie McCloud signed the following orders regarding COVID-19 testing frequency of residents and staff at assisted living facilities and nursing homes and opening of Senior Centers and Older Adult Day Services Centers:

Director’s Amended Order for the Testing of the Residents and Staff of all Residential Care Facilities

Director’s Amended Order for the Testing of Residents and Staff of all Nursing Homes

Third Amended Director’s Order on the Opening of Older Adult Day Services Centers

Third Amended Director’s Order on the Opening of Senior Centers

COVID-19 Update: Nursing Home & Assisted Living Employee Testing Exemption, Homebound Vaccination Plan

May 3, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

LONG-TERM CARE/NURSING FACILITY TESTING ORDER

Governor DeWine announced today that a new Ohio Department of Health order will exempt fully vaccinated staff in nursing homes and assisted living facilities from routine testing. Staff members who are not fully vaccinated will be required to be tested twice a week.

An individual is considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines or two weeks after the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

HOMEBOUND VACCINATION PLAN

The Ohio Department of Aging and Ohio Department of Health have developed a homebound vaccination playbook for organizations working to ensure homebound individuals have access to the vaccine. By utilizing existing Rapid Response Teams, Ohio can deliver the vaccine where it is needed.

That playbook is available on the coronavirus website at coronavirus.ohio.gov. If you are a homebound individual or know a homebound individual who would like a vaccine, please contact your Area Agency on Aging at 1-866-243-5678.

WOLSTEIN WALK-INS

Ohio's mass vaccination center at the Wolstein Center in downtown Cleveland continues to accept walk-ins to the clinic. Last week, 2,000 walk-ins were vaccinated.

Of the total vaccinated at the Wolstein Center last week, approximately 44 percent of those vaccinated were minorities and approximately 68 percent live in targeted high social-vulnerability zip codes.

The clinic is open 7 days a week, and walk-ins are accepted from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Appointments are also available in advance by visiting GetTheShot.coronavirus.ohio.gov or by calling 833-4-ASK-ODH.

The Cleveland Indians are offering discounts on tickets for anyone who has been vaccinated at the Wolstein Center or any other vaccination location. Fans can get $5 off regular priced Upper Box and Upper Reserved tickets if they have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. This offer is only available online for series against the Cincinnati Reds May 7 – 9, Chicago Cubs May 11 – 12, and Minnesota Twins May 21 – 23.

The Reds are also offering discounted View Level tickets for $10 for fans who show their COVID-19 vaccination card with at least one shot complete. The offer is valid at Great American Ball Park ticket windows for Monday-Thursday games through June.

Governor Announces Health Orders Removing Restrictions Signed

April 27, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today announced Ohio Department of Health Director Stephanie McCloud signed the following public health orders:

Addendum to Director’s Amended Order for Social Distancing, Facial Coverings, and Non-Congregating that does not require individuals who are fully-vaccinated to quarantine after exposure to someone with COVID-19, unless they live and work in a nursing home, long-term care facility, or other congregate care setting where those individuals are subject to CDC or other industry guidance.
Amended Director’s Order Rescinding the Director’s Order to Limit Access to Ohio’s Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF/IIDs) and Permit Visitation and directs facilities to follow all relevant guidance issued by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services regarding access to the facilities, visitation, and communal activities.

CDC Releases New Guidance on Outdoor Mask Use for the Fully Vaccinated

April 27, 2021

(CNN)-The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday issued new guidance on outdoor mask use for fully vaccinated Americans.

Fully vaccinated people can now unmask at small outdoor gatherings, or when dining outside with friends from multiple households. The CDC is telling unvaccinated people that they still need to wear a mask at such gatherings.

"If you are fully vaccinated and want to attend a small outdoor gathering with people who are vaccinated and unvaccinated or dine at an outdoor restaurant with friends from multiple households, the science shows if you are vaccinated, you can do so safely unmasked," CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said during a virtual White House briefing on Tuesday.

But life will not return completely to normal for fully vaccinated people.

The federal health agency says even if you've been vaccinated, you should avoid large indoor gatherings. The CDC did not define how many people would be in a large gathering, but the agency's website describes "large gatherings" as bringing together "many people from multiple households in a private or public space."

For the fully vaccinated who do choose to attend a crowded outdoor event, such as a live performance, parade, or sporting event, wearing a mask is recommended.

"Generally, for vaccinated people, outdoor activities without a mask are safe. However, we continue to recommend masking in crowded outdoor settings and venues, such as packed stadiums and concerts where there is decreased ability to maintain physical distance and where many unvaccinated people may also be present," Walensky said. "We will continue to recommend this until widespread vaccination is achieved."

The CDC advises both vaccinated and unvaccinated people to still wear masks in indoor public spaces, such as a mall, movie theater or museum.

People are considered fully vaccinated by the CDC two weeks after the second dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech or Moderna vaccines or two weeks after the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Presidents Biden used the new mask guidance from the CDC as an opportunity to urge all Americans to get vaccinated.

"The bottom line is clear, if you're vaccinated, you can do more things, more safely, both outdoors as well as indoors," Biden said during remarks at the White House on Tuesday afternoon. "So, for those who haven't gotten their vaccination yet, especially if you're younger, or thinking you don't need it, this is another great reason to go get vaccinated. Now."

"We're back to that place now as long as you get vaccinated. So go get the shot. It's never been easier. And once you're fully vaccinated, you can go without a mask when you're outside, and away from big crowds," he added.

Vaccine Providers Permitted to Resume Johnson & Johnson Vaccinations in Ohio

April 23, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Following the recommendation from the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization (ACIP) today that the use of Johnson & Johnson vaccine resume in the U.S., Governor Mike DeWine has released the following statement:

“Our country’s vaccine safety system has worked as designed – these extremely rare, serious blood-clotting events were reported into the CDC’s Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), and the vaccine distribution was paused to allow a thorough review of the facts and time to educate healthcare providers on the rare events. Now, a comprehensive analysis by the independent medical professionals on the ACIP has resulted in the recommendation that the benefits of Johnson & Johnson vaccine outweigh the risks, and that vaccine administration resume. The CDC and FDA have accepted those recommendations, lifting the pause on the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine. Providers in Ohio are permitted to immediately resume administering Johnson & Johnson vaccines in Ohio, provided they continue to follow all guidance by the CDC and FDA.”

The Ohio Department of Health is issuing guidance to providers to ensure they have access to the latest information on the use of Johnson & Johnson vaccines, and that healthcare providers are aware of treatment methods for these extremely rare but potentially life-threatening cases of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS).

According to the FDA, people who have received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine and develop shortness of breath, chest pain, leg swelling, persistent abdominal pain, neurological symptoms (including severe or persistent headaches or blurred vision), or petechiae beyond the site of vaccination should seek immediate medical care.

Additional information on mass vaccination clinics, mobile vaccine strategies, and specific sites resuming Johnson & Johnson are not available at this time. Officials with the Ohio Department of Health will continue to follow this situation closely.

COVID-19 Update: Vaccinations & Virus Spread

April 21, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

VACCINATIONS AND VIRUS SPREAD

As of today, 38 percent of Ohioans have received at least one coronavirus vaccination shot. Although cases have plateaued, virus variants are more contagious among those who have not been vaccinated.

"Just because the numbers are getting better and more people are getting vaccinated, the virus is now more dangerous than it was a few months ago for those who haven't been vaccinated," said Governor DeWine.

"Unvaccinated Ohioans lack the same protection against this virus as those who are vaccinated," said Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, chief medical officer at the Ohio Department of Health. "The virus is now in more contagious forms that put younger people at much greater risk, including the risk of ending up in the hospital. Essentially, the new variants have evolved to stick much more easily to our cells, so it takes less of the virus and less exposure to make one sick. Add to that the fact that more older Ohioans have been vaccinated, and it adds up to mean that if you’re young and unvaccinated, what may not have been much of a concern to you this fall should be a concern now."

Dr. Vanderhoff also warned that Ohioans should not count on herd immunity until more people are vaccinated.

The vaccine is now more widely available and there is no shortage. Ohioans can visit gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov to look for open appointments or call 833-4-ASK-ODH to book an appointment over the phone. Ohio's mass vaccination clinic at the Wolstein Center in downtown Cleveland is also now booking appointments for next week. First doses of the Pfizer vaccine will be offered. Appointments for the mass vaccination clinic can be booked via the aforementioned methods.

NEW PSAs

Governor DeWine introduced three new public service announcements today that encourage Ohioans to get vaccinated.

COVID-19 Update: Variant Spread, Vaccination Opportunities, Inclusive Employer Toolkit

April 15, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

VARIANT SPREAD

Governor DeWine announced today that more than 36 percent of Ohioans have now received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine, however, Ohio's statewide case incidence number has reached 200 cases per 100,000 people as compared to 144 cases per 100,000 people four weeks ago. There are currently more than 1,300 COVID-positive patients in Ohio's hospitals.

"What we're seeing in Ohio is a strong variant that is multiplying very quickly and is more contagious than the virus we've seen in the past, but we have hope, and hope is the vaccine," said Governor DeWine. "Vaccination is how we get out of this."

The majority of the counties with the highest incidence of cases in Ohio are in the northern region of the state which is seeing a high level of variant cases. Lucas County is currently seeing the highest occurrence of cases with 341.1 cases per 100,000 county residents.

Franklin County increased to Alert Level 4 (purple) on Ohio Public Health Advisory System due to a sustained increase in COVID-related emergency room visits, outpatient visits, and hospital admissions.

VACCINATION OPPORTUNITIES

There are a significant number of vaccine providers across the state with open vaccination appointments for this week and next week. Several sites are also accepting walk-up appointments including the mass vaccination clinic at Summit County's fairgrounds, Franklin County's regional mass vaccination clinic, and the Youngstown clinics at the Covelli Centre and Congregation Rodef Sholom Temple.

Ohio's mass vaccination clinic at the Wolstein Center in downtown Cleveland is also opening a satellite vaccination clinic on Friday and Saturday in Maple Heights which has many open appointments for the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine.

Visit gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov to look for open appointments or call 833-4-ASK-ODH to book an appointment over the phone.

INCLUSIVE EMPLOYER TOOLKIT

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) today announced the launch of the Inclusive Employer Toolkit designed to help employers recruit, hire, and retain employees with disabilities and foster an inclusive workplace.

Recruitment and retention are challenges for many businesses. Individuals with disabilities represent a talent pool that is often hidden and underutilized. The Inclusive Employer Toolkit, which can be used in its entirety or by section, is a guide to creating an inclusive workplace and accessing this hidden pool of talent.

“Ohioans with disabilities make excellent employees because of their loyalty and drive to be successful,” said Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted. “Creating an inclusive work environment and leveraging this untapped talent pool gives companies a competitive edge, and the new OOD Employer Toolkit can help give businesses the tools they need to get started.”

The Toolkit includes four main topics:

Building the Business Case – benefitting from hiring people with disabilities
Inclusive Workplace – making the workplace inclusive of everyone
Recruiting, Hiring, and Supporting Employees – getting access to a greater pool of talent
Workplace Accommodations – making small changes can make a big difference

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

Ohio mass vaccination information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/massvaccinationclinics

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

More vaccine information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine

Video of today's full update, including versions with foreign language translation, can be viewed on the Ohio Channel's YouTube page.

For more information on Ohio's response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

COVID-19 Update: Johnson & Johnson Vaccine

April 13, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted provided an update on Ohio's vaccination plans following this morning's decision to pause the administration of the Johnson and Johnson (Janssen) vaccine.

The majority of the Ohio's Johnson and Johnson doses were directed to mass vaccination clinics and to 63 public and private 4-year colleges and universities, most of which have already completed their student vaccinations.

Of the mass vaccination clinics and college/university clinics that did plan to offer the Johnson and Johnson vaccine this week, most will proceed with their clinics by offering either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. A total of eight sites will not offer any vaccines this week as the health community works to recognize, report, and manage any adverse events related to the Johnson and Johnson vaccine.

There are many other local providers with open appointments for the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. Visit gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov to look for open appointments.

Governor DeWine, Ohio Department of Health Director Stephanie McCloud, and Ohio Department of Health Chief Medical Officer Bruce Vanderhoff, M.D., directed all Ohio vaccine providers this morning to temporarily pause using the Johnson and Johnson vaccine following a recommendation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The recommendation was made after six people who received the Johnson and Johnson vaccine experienced an extremely rare blood-clotting condition in the United States. The cases have occurred in women between 18 and 48 and the reactions have taken place within 6-13 days after receiving the vaccine.

Approximately 6.8 million people have received the Johnson and Johnson vaccine in the U.S. 264,311 of those vaccinations were administered in Ohio.

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

Ohio mass vaccination information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/massvaccinationclinics

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

More vaccine information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine

Video of today's full update, including versions with foreign language translation, can be viewed on the Ohio Channel's YouTube page.

For more information on Ohio's response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 13, 2021

A Pause Issued for Johnson and Johnson Vaccine

(Portsmouth, OH) - Following the FDA and CDC recommendation to pause the use of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, Governor Mike DeWine has issued a statement along with the Ohio Department of Health Director Stephanie McCloud and the Ohio Department of Health Chief Medical Officer Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, that all Ohio providers temporarily pause using this specific vaccine. This pause has been issued due to six reported cases of a rare and severe blood clot occurring in patients who received the vaccine. A total of 6.85 million Johnson & Johnson Vaccines have been issues.

Dr. David Byers, Infectious Disease Specialist and Portsmouth City Health Department Medical Director says “What is being described is overall a very rare event with the number of vaccines given. I suspect they are taking these steps out of an abundance of caution given that there were similar reports with the other adenovirus vaccine made by Astra Zeneca, and to my knowledge we have not had anyone locally suffer from the blood clotting issues with the Johnson and Johnson vaccine. This concern has not been linked to the mRNA vaccines.”

It is still very important that as communities try to push toward normalcy that people continue to get vaccinated so that the pandemic can come to an end. The more people in the community that get vaccinated, the less likely it is that there will be more surges. Vaccinations are a very clear path to putting COVID-19 behind us and avoiding further shut downs so that our lives can continue.

Scioto County Vaccination Locations:

Portsmouth City Health Department. For information call 740-354-8919.

Scioto County Health Department – Visit https://gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov. Use 45662 zip code. You may also call 740-302-3801, 740-302-8277 Monday through Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm. Check Facebook for vaccine updates.

Southern Ohio Medical Center – Main Campus – 740-356-2273 – www.somc.org

Kroger Pharmacy – Portsmouth – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get- vaccinated

Kroger Pharmacy – Wheelersburg – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

Gahm’s Pharmacy – Lucasville – stop by to complete a registration form or visit them on Facebook: Gahm’s Market and Pharmacy

Walmart Pharmacy – New Boston 740-456-8267 https://www.walmart.com/cp/flu-shots-immunizations/1228302

Morton’s Pharmacy Portsmouth 740-353-1147 https://mortonsrx.com/

Compass Community Health Portsmouth 740-961-0550 www.compasscommunityhealth.org

# # # # #

Wirty Penix, PIO

Portsmouth City Health Department/Scioto EMA JIC

740-354-8921

Ohio Advises Temporary Pause for Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 Vaccine

April 13, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Today Governor Mike DeWine, Ohio Department of Health Director Stephanie McCloud, and Ohio Department of Health Chief Medical Officer Bruce Vanderhoff, M.D., are advising all Ohio vaccine providers to temporarily pause using the Johnson and Johnson (Janssen) vaccine.

This is in response to a statement by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommending a pause in the use of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine following extremely rare blood-clotting events of six people in the U.S. after receiving the vaccine.

Later today the FDA and the CDC will hold a media briefing.

In addition, the CDC will convene a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices tomorrow to further review these cases.

Officials with the Ohio Department of Health are following this situation closely.

Curious about COVID-19 vaccines, their safety, and efficacy? Educate yourself by reading what is myth, and what is fact, about COVID-19 vaccines at Myth vs. Facts COVID-19 Vaccine.

COVID-19 Update: Condensed Health Order and

High School Vaccinations

April 5, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONDENSED HEALTH ORDER

Governor DeWine announced today that the Ohio Department of Health will issue a simplified health order that streamlines previous orders into a single order that underscores the most important tenants of infection prevention.

"Our understanding of this virus and how it spreads is much more advanced than it was when we first learned about coronavirus in early 2020," said Governor DeWine. "As we move to begin a new chapter in our fight against the pandemic, where more and more Ohioans are being vaccinated, this new order will focus on our best defense measures against COVID-19, such as wearing a mask, social distancing, limiting large gatherings, being outside, and practicing good hand hygiene."

HIGH SCHOOL VACCINATIONS

Governor DeWine announced that he has asked Ohio's local health departments and vaccine providers that are offering the Pfizer vaccine to coordinate with local high schools to offer vaccinations to high school students who are 16 or older. Pfizer is the only vaccine that is currently approved for children as young as 16.

Today's announcement follows last week's announcement that vaccination clinics will be offered at all higher education campuses in the coming weeks.

"As with our colleges, by taking vaccines to schools, we’ll increase the percentage of people in this age group who choose to get vaccinated," said Governor DeWine.

COVID-19 Update: Higher Education and Workplace Vaccinations, Increase in Variant Spread

April 1, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

HIGHER EDUCATION VACCINATIONS

Governor DeWine announced today that the state will begin working with local colleges and universities to offer vaccination clinics on campuses across the state. These higher-education vaccination clinics will start on various campuses next week and will offer the one-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

"Although young people are less likely to get sick from the coronavirus, they are significant carriers of the virus," said Governor DeWine. "By offering one-dose clinics on campus, students who wish to be vaccinated will have a nearby, convenient location to get the vaccine with their peers."

The goal is to offer on-campus clinics to all of Ohio's college students before the school year ends in May.

WORKPLACE VACCINATIONS

Governor DeWine also announced that Ohio will begin working with employers and other organizations to offer workplace vaccination clinics throughout Ohio. Beginning the week of April 12, vaccine providers can allot up to 25 percent of their vaccine allocation to be used to vaccinate their own employees or to partner with local employers, labor unions, and other organizations to vaccinate their employees at their work locations.

INCREASE IN CASES, VARIANT SPREAD

For the past two Thursdays, Ohio's statewide average was just under 150 cases per 100,000 population. The two-week case rate has now risen to 167.1 cases per 100,000. New cases had been relatively flat through the month of March, but cases are beginning to increase once again, which demonstrates the necessity that Ohioans choose to be vaccinated. To date, nearly 30 percent of Ohioans have received at least one dose of vaccine.

According to Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, chief medical officer at the Ohio Department of Health, variant activity continues to rise, closely mirroring what is occurring in the rest of the nation. Michigan is currently experiencing an increase in cases that is more than 3.5 times what Ohio is seeing, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this increase appears to be driven substantially by variants. Most of Ohio's rising cases numbers and variant cases are happening in the area of the state bordering Michigan.

"Ohio remains in a race against a virus that is now more contagious and right back on our heels," said Dr. Vanderhoff. "We can win this race as long as we don’t falter; as long as we press on with consistent masking and vaccination, especially in light of this week’s important and encouraging research out of the CDC confirming that the vaccines are powerful protection against COVID-19 and its variants."

Governor DeWine announced today that as Ohio continues to receive increases in its vaccine allotment, the state will allot more doses to areas that are seeing case spikes or increases in vaccine demand.

Scioto County goes Orange

April 1, 2021

(PORTSMOUTH, Ohio) - As we go into Easter weekend, we have many reasons to celebrate. This week Scioto County has gone from red to orange in the Ohio Public Health Advisory System. This means that we meet only two of the seven indicators of the advisory system. We currently still meet indicator one, 50 cases/100,000 in the last two weeks and number three, Proportion in Non-Congregate Settings. We are also no longer considered to have a high incidence of spread. While this is great news, we want to reinforce the importance of continuing to follow the safety measures that the CDC has set forth. The local health departments would like to remind everyone that we must still maintain social distancing and continue to wear masks in public and continue washing our hands. Along with those guidelines we have to continue vaccinating the population! As we proceed into the summer months and the school year winds down, we all hope to celebrate graduations and proms for this year’s seniors so that they can safely create memories of this exciting time in their lives. The clear path for us to progress from orange to yellow, and ultimately green in our path to beating this pandemic and returning to normal is through continuing vaccination efforts to reach our 80% goal and maintaining diligence with hand washing, social distancing, and masking up in public.

Scioto County Vaccination Locations:

· Portsmouth City Health Department. Check Facebook and website for self-scheduling link when appointments are available. www.portsmouthcityhealth.org For information call 740-352-7020.

· Scioto County Health Department – Visit https://gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov. Use 45662 zip code. You may also call 740-302-3801, 740-302-8277 Monday through Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm. Check Facebook for vaccine updates.

· Southern Ohio Medical Center – Main Campus – 740-356-2273 – www.somc.org

· Kroger Pharmacy – Portsmouth – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get- vaccinated

· Kroger Pharmacy – Wheelersburg – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

· Gahm’s Pharmacy – Lucasville – stop by to complete a registration form or visit them on Facebook: Gahm’s Market and Pharmacy

· Walmart Pharmacy – New Boston 740-456-8267 https://www.walmart.com/cp/flu-shots-immunizations/1228302

· Morton’s Pharmacy Portsmouth 740-353-1147 https://mortonsrx.com/

· Compass Community Health Portsmouth 740-961-0550 www.compasscommunityhealth.org

For more information please contact:

Wirty Penix, PIO

Portsmouth City Health Department/Scioto EMA JIC

740-354-8921

Scioto County's First Mass Vaccination Clinic to be held April 1st

March 31, 2021

(PORTSMOUTH, Ohio) - Tomorrow (April 1, 2021) starting at 9 AM the Portsmouth City Health Department will hold Scioto County’s first Mass Vaccination Drive-Thru Clinic on the campus of Shawnee State University (Use the Waller Street entrance to campus). The first dose Pfizer vaccine will be available for anyone ages 16 and up.

Registration for an appointment can be made by going to www.portsmouthcityhealth.org or by calling 740-352-7020 or at the direct link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4DA92EA4FFC07-covid

If you don’t have a car, don’t worry you can register and walk up too!

Don’t Hesitate! Vaccinate!

No Hesitation-Vaccination Week in

Scioto County

March 29, 2021

(PORTSMOUTH, Ohio) - This week is going to be a big one for those hoping to get a COVID vaccine in Scioto County. Walk-in clinics, special clinics for 16-and-17-year-olds, and the county’s first large drive-through mass vaccination are all scheduled for the week.

On Monday and Tuesday, walk-in clinics will be available at the Scioto County Courthouse 602 7^th Street Portsmouth. The clinics will be open from 9:00 am to noon and 1:00 pm to 2:45 pm each of those days. No pre-registration is required.

Tuesday evening, a limited dose Pfizer clinic specifically for 16-and-17-year-olds will be held from 4:30 – 6:15 pm at the Courthouse. For this clinic, an appointment is required as is a parent or guardian. Please call 740-302-3801 or 740-302-8277 to schedule an appointment.

On Thursday, Portsmouth City Health Department is teaming up with Scioto EMA, Shawnee State University, Portsmouth Fire and Police Departments to hold the first large mass vaccination in Scioto County. The drive- through or walk-through clinic will be by appointment and begins Thursday April 1 at 9:00 am. Those who schedule appointments should enter campus and the clinic via the Waller Street entrance. To register for an appointment, visit www.portsmouthcityhealth.org and click on the red Vaccine Schedule Information box or call 740-352-7020. This is a Pfizer clinic, so those 16 and 17 years of age will need a parent or guardian with them. Shawnee State University staff and students are encouraged to register. The second dose will be scheduled April 22^nd.

If you need a ride, Access Scioto County is offering free rides to any COVID vaccine clinic in Scioto County. Call ASC to schedule a ride at 740-353-5626.

Ohio’s Local Health Departments Celebrate a Million Vaccinated

March 24, 2021

(PORTSMOUTH, Ohio) - The Association of Ohio Health Commissioners announced today that Ohio’s 113 Local Health Departments, including Portsmouth City and Scioto County Health Departments have reached a milestone in the COVID vaccine efforts. In less than three months’ time, the local health departments located in all 88 counties and some municipalities have now administered over a million shots as part of Ohio’s statewide COVID vaccination rollout.

AOHC sent its congratulations and thanks to the staff, volunteers, and community partners for their on-going efforts. Executive Director Beth Bickford added, “we know your highest priority is the health and safety of your communities, and we applaud your perseverance in responding to this once-in-a-century pandemic, oftentimes in the face of undeserved criticism and personal attack.”

To date, nearly 2.9 million COVID vaccines have been administered in Ohio by the more than 1,200 vaccine providers throughout the state. Here in Scioto County, 17,500 residents (over 23 percent of the population) have had at least one dose of the vaccine. Nearly 12,000 of those doses have been given by the two local health departments.

Visit https://gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov or connect with a vaccine provider.

Scioto County Vaccination Locations:

· Portsmouth City Health Department. Check Facebook and website for self-scheduling link when appointments are available. www.portsmouthcityhealth.org For information call 740-352-7020.

· Southern Ohio Medical Center – Main Campus – 740-356-2273 – www.somc.org

· Kroger Pharmacy – Portsmouth – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get- vaccinated

· Kroger Pharmacy – Wheelersburg – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

· Gahm’s Pharmacy – Lucasville – stop by to complete a registration form or visit them on Facebook: Gahm’s Market and Pharmacy

· Walmart Pharmacy – New Boston 740-456-8267 https://www.walmart.com/cp/flu-shots-immunizations/1228302

· Morton’s Pharmacy Portsmouth 740-353-1147 https://mortonsrx.com/

· Compass Community Health Portsmouth 740-961-0550 www.compasscommunityhealth.org

COVID-19 Update: Nursing Home and Assisted Living Visitation, Vaccination Appointment Booking

March 22, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

VACCINATION APPOINTMENT BOOKING

While most of Ohio's current vaccine providers are quickly filling all vaccination appointments, some locations are seeing less demand for the vaccine. In response, Governor DeWine announced that local health departments and hospitals that are having a hard time filling appointments with individuals who are currently eligible for the vaccine may book appointments with anyone 16 years old and older.

Currently, anyone age 40 or older is eligible to receive the vaccine. Eligibility will drop to any Ohioan age 16 and up beginning on March 29.

CLEVELAND MASS VACCINATION UPDATE

As of today, more than 30,000 people have been vaccinated at the state-federal mass vaccination clinic at Cleveland State University's Wolstein Center. Appointments can be scheduled by visiting gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov. or by calling 1-833-427-5634 (1-833-4-ASK-ODH).

NURSING HOME/ASSISTED LIVING VISITATION

The Ohio Department of Health will issue an updated order related to assisted living facilities and nursing homes. The general visitation requirements will remain the same, including the requirement that visitors schedule appointments in advance, are screened at the door, and wear masks. Changes to the order include:

Ohio is requiring that visitation be permitted whenever safety protocols can be met. Previously, visitation was permitted, not required;
Vaccinated residents may have physical touch with their visitor while wearing a mask. Previously, touch was discouraged;
Visits may occur in a resident’s private room, as opposed to the previous requirement of a separate visitation area;
30 minutes should serve as the minimum amount of time for a visit. Previously, 30 minutes was the maximum time to visit.

The order will also expand the circumstances in which compassionate care visits should be granted.

In addition, the order will update nursing home and assisted living testing requirements to require the facilities to test vaccinated staff once per week and unvaccinated staff twice per week. The previous order made no distinction between vaccinated or unvaccinated staff.

"We must continue regularly testing for the virus," said Governor DeWine. "It’s just good science, and it will help us identify cases early and prevent the spread. Further, if COVID is controlled, that means less disruption to visitation."

Certain circumstances, such as a facility outbreak, may necessitate that visitation be restricted on a case-by-case basis. Nursing homes must also continue following federal regulations from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

CASE DATA/VACCINE INFORMATION

In-depth COVID-19 data for Ohio: coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio's central scheduling system: gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov

All vaccine providers: vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov

More vaccine information: coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine

Video of today's full update, including versions with foreign language translation, can be viewed on the Ohio Channel's YouTube page.

For more information on Ohio's response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

Safe and Effective!

March 22, 2021

(PORTSMOUTH, Ohio) - On March 29, all Scioto County residents 16 years of age and up will be eligible to receive a COVID vaccine. As vaccine providers gear up for an increasing amount of demand, there is still concern about the percentage of individuals who are hesitant about getting the vaccination. Nationally, estimates range from 20-30% of the population who do not plan to get the shot.

While there are several reasons for hesitancy, a common one is a concern about side effects. All three vaccines that are approved for use in the U.S.A. have reported some side effects especially after the second dose. The Ohio Department of Health posted this in Myths versus Facts COVID-19 Vaccine on the coronavirus.ohio.gov site:

“Many people will experience side effects after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, but the vast majority are very short term and minor. Some people have reported experiencing soreness or redness at the site of the injection, body aches, headaches or fever, lasting for a day or two. Severe reactions, or anaphylaxis, are rare. If you have allergies — especially severe ones that include allergies to other vaccines or ingredients in the vaccines — discuss the COVID-19 vaccine with your doctor, who can assess your risk and provide more information about if and how you can get vaccinated safely.”

The vaccine is a very important step in stopping the spread and getting rid of the virus. If you have concerns about the vaccine, talk to your health care provider and visit the websites of public health agencies or the CDC. When you are ready to schedule your appointment, Scioto County has several vaccine providers ready to help you get your vaccination. Visit https://gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov or connect with the vaccine provider directly.

Scioto County Vaccination Locations:

· Portsmouth City Health Department (Portsmouth City and Sciotoville residents only). Watch Facebook and website for self-scheduling link when appointments are available. www.portsmouthcityhealth.org For information call 740-352-7020.

· Scioto County Health Department – 740-302-3801, 740-302-8277 www.sciotocountyhealthdepartment.com The Hotline hours are Monday through Friday 8:00am – 8:00pm. Scioto County (outside Portsmouth and Sciotoville city limits) residents only.

· Southern Ohio Medical Center – Main Campus – 740-356-2273 – www.somc.org

· Kroger Pharmacy – Portsmouth – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get- vaccinated

· Kroger Pharmacy – Wheelersburg – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

· Gahm’s Pharmacy – Lucasville – stop by to complete a registration form or visit them on Facebook: Gahm’s Market and Pharmacy

· Walmart Pharmacy – New Boston 740-456-8267 https://www.walmart.com/cp/flu-shots-immunizations/1228302

· Morton’s Pharmacy Portsmouth 740-353-1147 https://mortonsrx.com/

· Compass Community Health Portsmouth 740-961-0550 www.compasscommunityhealth.org

Don't Hesitate! Vaccine!

March 19, 2020

All Ohioans 40 years old and older are now eligible to receive the vaccine, along with those who suffer from cancer, chronic kidney, obstructive pulmonary, and heart disease, and obesity.

Beginning March 29th, all Ohioans 16 years old and older will become eligible for vaccination.

Below is a list of the COVID-19 Vaccine Providers in Scioto County:

Compass Community Health - 1634 11th Street - Portsmouth - 740-355-7102

Gahm’s Pharmacy - 50A Center Street - Lucasville - 740-259-2442

Kroger Pharmacy - 811 Gay Street - Portsmouth - 866-211-5320

Kroger Pharmacy - 9101 Ohio River RD. - Wheelersburg - 866-211-5320

Morton’s Pharmacy - 1865 Coles Blvd. - Portsmouth - 740-353-1147

Portsmouth City Health Dept. - 605 Washington Street - Portsmouth - 740-352-7020

Scioto County Health Dept. - 602 7th Street - Portsmouth - 740-302-3801 or 740-302-8277

Southern Ohio Medical Center - 1805 27th Street - Portsmouth - 740-356-5000

Walmart - 4490 Gallia Street - New Boston - 740-456-8267

Ohio’s COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Update

March 16, 2021

(CLEVELAND, Ohio) - Governor DeWine announced today that Ohio's Vaccine Eligibility we greatly expand.

Phase 1E begins this Friday, March 19, 2021. Ohioans with cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart disease, and obesity will be eligible for the vaccine.

Phase 2C will also begin this Friday, March 19, 2021 making all Ohioans 40 years old and older eligible for the vaccine.

Phase 2D will begin on Monday, March 29, 2021 making all Ohioans 16 years old and older eligible for the vaccine.

The Governor said, "It's a moral imperative that we move as quickly as we can to vaccinate all Ohioans who wish to be vaccinated. We expect a significant increase in vaccines coming to Ohio soon, so we will expand vaccine eligibility."

Health Order Signed Regarding Spring Sports and Extracurricular Activities

March 15, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced today that Ohio Department of Health Director Stephanie McCloud has issued an addendum that updates quarantine guidance for student athletes and participants in extracurricular activities who may have been incidentally exposed to COVID-19 in a classroom setting.

The Addendum to Director’s Second Amended Order that Provides Mandatory Requirements for Youth, Collegiate, Amateur, Club and Professional Sports and Extracurricular Activities is in effect now. For spring sports and extracurricular activities, students will not be required to quarantine because they have an incidental exposure to COVID-19 in a classroom under the school-based exposure guidance unless symptoms develop. Students will now be permitted to participate in organized sporting and extracurricular activities as long as they remain symptom-free and follow applicable safety precautions.

However, students who are exposed in other settings outside of the classroom will be required to continue following existing CDC quarantine guidance.

COVID Fight Not Over Yet!

March 15, 2021

(PORTSMOUTH, Ohio) - With warmer temperatures and a growing number of Portsmouth and Scioto County residents receiving vaccinations, many of us are letting our guard down in the fight against COVID-19. Infectious Disease Specialist and Portsmouth City Health Department Medical Director Dr. David Byers reminds us of the possibility of another dangerous surge in the number of cases locally. “The vaccines are likely having an impact on infections, but a significant portion of our community remains at risk from the virus including some with a much higher rate of severe illness or death. While we celebrate the success, we have had with the vaccines, we must continue to remain vigilant by wearing our masks, distancing and washing our hands because the vaccines are highly effective at preventing us from getting sick, but are not 100% in preventing us from becoming infected or infecting others.”

As spring breaks are taking place and the Easter holiday approaches, the local health departments are reminding residents to follow guidelines for gatherings and travel. “Even when we have been vaccinated, we still need to follow CDC and Ohio Department of Health recommendations if we are going to be around others who have not yet gotten a vaccination,” said Scioto County Health Commissioner Dr. Michael Martin.

At least four variants of COVID have been found in Ohio, none of which so far have been identified in Scioto County. City Health Commissioner, Chris Smith cautions, “some of these variants are spreading very quickly. Even though we have not identified any cases yet in Scioto County, there is no reason to believe they will not make it here. The CDC suggests the UK variant will likely be the dominant strain nationally by the end of spring. To slow the spread of this and other variants the most effective strategy remains to follow health department guidelines by wearing masks, social distancing washing hands and limiting gatherings.”

Meanwhile, vaccines are available in Scioto County at several locations. New providers are being added as more vaccine supply becomes available for our county. Below is the current list of vaccine providers in Portsmouth and Scioto County:

Scioto County Vaccination Locations:

· Southern Ohio Medical Center – Main Campus – 740-356-2273 – www.somc.org

· Kroger Pharmacy – Portsmouth – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get- vaccinated

· Kroger Pharmacy – Wheelersburg – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

· Gahm’s Pharmacy – Lucasville – stop by to complete a registration form or visit them on Facebook: Gahm’s Market and Pharmacy

· Walmart Pharmacy – New Boston 740-456-8267 https://www.walmart.com/cp/flu-shots-immunizations/1228302

· Morton’s Pharmacy Portsmouth 740-353-1147 https://mortonsrx.com/

· Compass Community Health Portsmouth 740-961-0550 www.compasscommunityhealth.org

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(This information provided by the Scioto County Joint Information Center)

Cathy Mullins

PCHD PIO/SCIOTO JIC LEAD PIO

740-352-1368

COVID-19 Update: Nursing Home Visitation, Statewide Case Rate, Rapid Testing, County Fairs

March 11, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted today provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

CLEVELAND MASS VACCINATION SITE

The Cleveland mass vaccination site, in partnership with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), will launch on Wednesday, March 17, at Cleveland State University's Wolstein Center in downtown Cleveland. As of today, more than 17,000 Ohioans have registered to receive their vaccine at the site.

Additional appointments will become available throughout the coming days. To schedule an appointment at the Cleveland mass vaccination site, or with a vaccination provider, visit gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov.

NURSING HOME VISITATION

Governor DeWine today discussed the new federal regulations for nursing home visitation, as well as Ohio’s Vaccine Maintenance Program. The visitation guidelines, issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) indicate visitation should be happening in nursing homes. There are a few specific exceptions that would limit visitation, such as outbreaks in the facility or an extreme number of cases in the community. Full information on the federal nursing home visitation guidance is available at cms.gov.

Additionally, Governor DeWine highlighted the progress being made by Ohio’s Vaccine Maintenance Program for nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Ohio’s Vaccine Maintenance Program ensures new nursing home residents and employees, and established residents and employees who previously decided not to receive a vaccine, can still choose to receive one. Governor DeWine emphasized the importance of every nursing home resident receiving a vaccine.

Long-term care facility visitation status is available on the dashboard at coronavirus.ohio.gov.

STATEWIDE CASE RATE

Governor DeWine announced that, statewide, Ohio is currently at a rate of 155 cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 people during the past two weeks. Last week, statewide data put Ohio at 180 cases per 100,000 people.

"In Ohio, we are still at a very elevated level of cases, but today's health data is certainly trending in the right direction," said Governor DeWine.

In an evening address last week, Governor DeWine announced that when Ohio reached 50 cases per 100,000 people for two weeks, all health orders will be lifted.

The Ohio Department of Health will update this data each Thursday.

RAPID TESTING

Governor DeWine today detailed four initiatives that are making rapid COVID-19 tests more accessible to Ohioans:

Federal Qualified Health Centers
- The state's ongoing partnership with federally qualified health centers has led to the availability of over 150,000 rapid tests at community health centers. These centers have professionals on-hand to administer the tests free of charge.
Local Health Departments
- Local health departments have partnered with their communities to make at-home testing available to schools, nonprofit organizations, and first responders.
Public Libraries
- The state has recently partnered with public libraries to make at-home tests available to more Ohio communities. During the first two weeks, Ohio has partnering with 120 libraries.
K-12 Schools
- A new partnership launched today will bring 200,000 at-home tests to Educational Service Centers. To increase confidence and safety in schools, Governor DeWine encourages school districts to take advantage of this resource and develop aggressive testing plans.

Between libraries and local health departments, at-home testing is accessible in 76 of Ohio's 88 counties. Some of these areas had disproportionate access to testing earlier in the COVID-19 pandemic.

GUIDANCE ON FAIRS

Governor DeWine announced that the Ohio Department of Health issued a revised order that allows for the reopening of all fair activities if certain health conditions are met. The updated order includes compliance with the statewide mask order and social distancing. Additionally, there will be a 25 percent maximum for indoor grandstand capacity and a 30 percent maximum for outdoor grandstand capacity.

Additionally, the Ohio Department of Health will issue updated order and guidance regarding festivals, parades, proms, and spring sports. For spring sports, students will not be required to quarantine because they have an incidental exposure to COVID-19 in a classroom unless symptoms develop.

These orders and guidance will be forthcoming from the Ohio Department of Health.

COVID-19 Update: Vaccination Phase 1D and Phase 2B, Centralized Vaccination Scheduling Tool

March 9, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

PHASE 1D AND PHASE 2B VACCINATION ELIGIBILITY

In response to significant increase in the amount of vaccine coming into Ohio, Governor DeWine today outlined the individuals who are included in Phase 1D and Phase 2B of Ohio's vaccination plan, which will go into effect on Thursday, March 11.

Phase 1D includes approximately 197,000 eligible Ohioans with certain medical conditions not addressed in previous phases, including type 2 diabetes and end-stage renal disease.

Phase 2B will open vaccinations based on age for Ohioans ages 50 and older. This group includes approximately 1.2 million eligible Ohioans.

VACCINATION SCHEDULING TOOL

Governor DeWine announced today that Ohio's centralized scheduling website is now available at gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov. The website will serve as a singular location for Ohioans to confirm that they are eligible to be vaccinated, identify nearby providers, and schedule their vaccine appointments.

"As we continue to receive more vaccines, having a centralized scheduling website will streamline the process, reduce data lags, and provide real-time information on vaccination progress across the state," said Governor DeWine.

The Ohio Department of Health will continue to work directly with vaccine providers to integrate their current systems into the statewide system. Providers will be expected to use this system or another electronic scheduling system that interfaces with this portal.

The centralized scheduling website will also be used for scheduling appointments at the mass vaccination clinics, including the FEMA site in Cleveland, that were announced last week.

Outside partners, including the Area Agencies on Aging, will be available to help Ohioans who do not have access to the internet with appointment scheduling.

Governor DeWine Announces 15 Regional

Mass Vaccination Sites to Open Across Ohio

Additional Pop-Up Mass Vaccination Clinics to Launch in Columbus and Cincinnati Mid-March

March 5, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced today that 15 long-term mass vaccination clinics will open throughout Ohio to significantly expand regional access to COVID-19 vaccines.

The state-sponsored mass vaccination clinics will be located in Lima, Maumee, Dayton, Columbus, Akron, Youngstown, Cincinnati, Chillicothe, Marietta, Wilmington, and Zanesville. Four mobile mass vaccination clinics will also make rounds in the areas of northwestern and west-central Ohio (Ada), southeastern Ohio (Athens), north-central Ohio (Mansfield), and east-central Ohio (Steubenville).

The state-sponsored, regional sites will be offered in addition to the eight-week mass vaccination clinic, which was announced earlier today, to open March 17 at Cleveland State University’s Wolstein Center.

“Mass vaccination clinics have always been part of our plan, but adequate supply is necessary for larger sites, so it was crucial that we first established local provider sites in all 88 counties to ensure that every citizen in every community has a provider nearby,” said Governor DeWine. “Now that we have more than 1,250 local vaccine providers and a significant increase in vaccine supply expected at the end of March, this is the right time to finalize and prepare to launch these large-scale regional clinics."

The regional mass vaccination clinics, which will begin opening in the coming weeks as supply becomes available, will operate until they are no longer necessary.

The regional mass vaccination sites will be locally operated with support from the Ohio Department of Health and Ohio Emergency Management Agency. Clinics will be equipped to administer between 300 and 3,000 vaccines a day depending on location, supply, and demand. Ohio’s established vaccine providers can also expect to see an increase in their vaccine allotment as supply increases, and vaccine doses may also be allotted to new providers.

Any Ohioan who is eligible to receive the vaccine under the Ohio Department of Health’s vaccination plan may be vaccinated at any of Ohio's mass vaccination clinics. Ohio will also work closely with the clinics to ensure equitable access for high-risk residents and medically underserved communities that could be disproportionately impacted by the virus.

Several appointment-scheduling options will be available, including the use of Ohio’s forthcoming central scheduling system for some sites. The sites are not yet taking reservations, but specific instructions on how to book an appointment will be announced later this month. Dates of operation and hours will vary, but sites will offer both weekday and weekend appointments.

Governor DeWine also announced today that 50,000 doses of Pfizer vaccine will be dedicated to two pop-up mass vaccination sites in Columbus and Cincinnati. The pop-up clinics will open shortly after the March 17 start date of Cleveland’s mass vaccination site and will offer 12,500 first doses at each location. Those vaccinated during the Columbus and Cincinnati pop-up mass vaccination sites will be guaranteed a second dose. Exact site locations are pending.

The 50,000 vaccine doses for these pop-up mass vaccination clinics were initially required by the federal government to be set aside for use in Ohio's more than 2,400 long-term care facilities as part of the federal long-term care program. Ohio was one of the first states to begin drawing from the unused long-term care vaccine supply to provide vaccines for the general population. Ohio has already administered nearly 160,000 reallocated doses from the program to the public.

A complete list of the selected regional mass vaccination clinic sites and associated local partners can be found at governor.ohio.gov.

For more information on Ohio’s vaccination plan, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov/vaccine.

COVID-19 Update: Vaccination Phase 1C & Phase 2

March 2, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic during their March 1^st press conference.

VACCINE AVAILABILITY

Governor DeWine announced that Ohio is expected to receive more than 448,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine this week. Of that total, more than 96,000 doses of the new Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be delivered to around 200 new independent pharmacy providers as well as chain pharmacies, hospitals, and health departments.

Ohio now offers more than 1,200 provider locations. Ohioans can find vaccine provider locations at vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov. Those who do not have access to the internet or are having trouble managing the online scheduling systems should call their local health department, the 211 helpline center, or the Area Agencies on Aging at 1-866-243-5678.

PHASE 1C AND PHASE 2 VACCINATION ELIGIBILITY

In response to this significant increase in the amount of vaccine coming into Ohio, Governor DeWine outlined the individuals who are included in Phase 1C and Phase 2 of Ohio's vaccination plan which will go into effect on March 4, 2021.

Phase 1C includes approximately 246,000 eligible Ohioans with certain occupations and with certain medical conditions not addressed in previous phases.

Phase 1C: Medical Groups

Type 1 diabetes
Pregnant women
Bone marrow transplant recipients
ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease)

Phase 1C: Occupations

Childcare Services - Approximately 40,400 Ohioans:

Administrators, lead and assistant teachers, and substitutes who are enrolled in Ohio’s Professional Registry who are currently working in open childcare and pre-kindergarten programs.
Licensing specialists employed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services or county job and family services agencies.

This phase does not include parent volunteers, board members, or owners/administrators that do not provide in-classroom supports.

Funeral Services - Approximately 3,600 Ohioans:

Embalmers/morticians, funeral home directors, crematory operators, and apprentices.

Law Enforcement and Corrections Officers - Approximately 76,000 Ohioans:

Examples of law enforcement occupations included in Phase 1C are police officers; sheriff’s deputies; Ohio State Highway Patrol Troopers; other state or federal enforcement officers such as Ohio Department of Natural Resource enforcement staff, pharmacy board investigators, BCI agents, state fire marshal investigators, federal transportation security officers, and other federal law enforcement officers who do not have access to vaccination from federal sources.

Phase 2

Because the risk of more severe reactions and outcomes of COVID-19 increase with age, Phase 2 will open vaccinations based on age, beginning with Ohioans ages 60 and older. This group includes approximately 695,000 eligible Ohioans.

February 26, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted yesterday provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

SPRING EVENTS

Governor DeWine today announced a loosening of restrictions for sporting and entertainment venues when safety protocols are followed.

"The vaccines have given us great hope, but until we have enough Ohioans vaccinated, we must continue masking and social distancing," said Governor DeWine. "Easing up on some prevention measures is intended to serve as a starting point. If the trajectory of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths continues downward, we hope to be able to relax more of these measures. If it gets worse, we may have to tighten up."

Sporting and entertainment events will be able to reopen with 25 percent maximum indoor capacity and 30 percent maximum outdoor capacity provided they follow established precautions such as mandatory mask wearing for employees and customers, spectator pathways that allow for social distancing, and seating in groups in six-foot intervals of no more than six people from the same household.

General admission (lawns, standing room, infields) will be permitted if masks are worn and if six-foot distancing can be marked and maintained.

New guidance for proms, banquets, wedding receptions, fairs, festivals, and parades is forthcoming.

PROVIDER EXPANSION

Next week, Ohio will receive 310,000 first doses of the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines. With this increase in doses, Ohio will add additional new vaccine provider sites including some Meijer and Walmart locations and more independent pharmacies.

Providers that are currently receiving vaccines - including RiteAid, Kroger, CVS, Walgreens, local health departments, and hospitals - can anticipate larger shipments.

Based on information provided by the federal government, once the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is available, Ohio will receive an additional 91,000 doses during the first week.

SCHOOL UPDATE

As of this week, all doses requested by schools through the state’s vaccination program have been allocated to local providers. Some school staff already received their second dose, and other second dose clinics are underway.

Ohio began making vaccines available to K-12 teachers this month with the goal of having all of Ohio’s K-12 students back to full or partial in-person learning by March 1. Right now, most students in Ohio districts have access to at least some in-person instruction.

Governor DeWine expressed gratitude to school leaders who have prioritized a return to in-person instruction. Ohio will continue to work with the handful of schools across the state that are struggling to meet the March 1 goal.

February 25, 2021

A New Week - A New Link

(Portsmouth, Ohio) - Vaccine providers in Scioto County are reaching out again this week to residents aged 65 and over and those who have qualifying medical conditions to make appointments for a COVID-19 vaccination. Portsmouth City Health Department’s self-scheduling system is available again for city residents for the Thursday March 4 clinic. The link to that date’s appointment scheduler is: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4dada92ea4ffc07-vaccines You can find the link on the Portsmouth City Health Department’s Facebook page.

Less than half of the county’s 65+ population have received at least a first dose of vaccine. If you or someone you know live within the city limits and are 65 or over or have a qualifying medical condition (sickle cell anemia, down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, people born with severe heart defects requiring regular specialized medical care, severe type 1 diabetes with hospitalization for this in the past year, PKU, Tay-Sachs, and other rare, inherited metabolic disorders, epilepsy with continuing seizures, hydrocephaly, microcephaly, and other severe neurological disorders, Turner syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and other severe genetic disorders, severe asthma with hospitalization for this in the past year, alpha and beta thalassemia, solid organ transplant candidates and recipients), you may use the self-scheduler to make an appointment.

In addition to the Portsmouth City Health Department, here are the other locations in Scioto County where vaccines are available:

Scioto County Vaccination Locations:

• Portsmouth City Health Department https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d4dada92ea4ffc07-vaccines (Portsmouth City and Sciotoville residents only).

• Scioto County Health Department – 740-302-3801. www.sciotocountyhealthdepartment.com The Hotline hours are Monday through Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm. Scioto County (outside Portsmouth and Sciotoville city limits) residents only.

• Southern Ohio Medical Center – Main Campus – 740-356-2273 – www.somc.org

Call 8:00am – 8:00pm seven days a week.

• Kroger Pharmacy – Portsmouth – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

• Kroger Pharmacy – Wheelersburg – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

• Gahm’s Pharmacy – Lucasville – 740-259-2442 on Facebook: Gahm’s Market and Pharmacy

February 11, 2021

New Group of Eligible Ohioans Added to Phase 1B

(Portsmouth, Ohio) – As Scioto County and the rest of Ohio continues to vaccinate those who are 65 years of age and older, beginning the week of February 15, the COVID-19 vaccination program adds another group eligible in phase 1B.

Eligibility will expand to any individuals with one of the severe congenital, early-onset, or inherited conditions listed below:

• Cerebral palsy

• Cystic fibrosis

• Spina bifida

• Inherited metabolic disorders including phenylketonuria

• Severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, hydrocephaly, and microcephaly

• Severe genetic disorders including Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and muscular dystrophy

• Sickle cell anemia

• Alpha and beta thalassemia

• Solid organ transplant patients.

Individuals who have been hospitalized within the past year due to any of the following diseases are also eligible for the vaccine beginning February 15:

• Severe congenital heart disease requiring hospitalization within the past year

• Severe type 1 diabetes requiring hospitalization within the past year

• Severe lung disease, including asthma requiring hospitalization within the past year.

If you are part of this newly eligible group, please call to register for an appointment. Anyone who is 65 years of age or older may still register to be vaccinated. Vaccinations are being offered as vaccine supply permits at several locations in Scioto County.

Scioto County Vaccination Locations:

• Southern Ohio Medical Center – Main Campus – 740-356-2273 – www.somc.org

Call 8:00am – 8:00pm seven days a week.

• Kroger Pharmacy – Portsmouth – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

• Kroger Pharmacy – Wheelersburg – 866-211-5320 – www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

• Gahm’s Pharmacy – Lucasville – 740-259-2442

• Portsmouth City Health Department – 740-352-7020 – http://portsmouthcityhealth.org (Portsmouth City and Sciotoville residents only).

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(This information provided by the Scioto County Joint Information Center)

February 22, 2021

NURSING HOME VISITATION

The number of new COVID-19 cases in Ohio's nursing homes has dropped significantly to 343 new cases last week compared to the peak of 2,832 new cases in December.

As the number of nursing-home cases continues to drop due to vaccinations in long-term facilities, Governor DeWine today reminded nursing home staff and families of nursing home residents about the status of visitation in Ohio's nursing homes. Visitation is permitted at nursing homes in Ohio if the facilities meet the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) criteria to allow visits:

No new onset of COVID-19 cases in the last 14 days;
The facility is not currently conducting outbreak testing; and
CMS reports the COVID-19 county positivity rate at less than 10 percent.

Compassionate care visits, which are special visits in which a family member or other visitor provides comfort, support, and assistance to a resident whose well-being is suffering or at risk, are always permitted regardless of the criteria above.

Governor DeWine sent a letter today to all nursing homes in Ohio reminding them to check their county positivity rate every week to determine their visitation status and to remind them to allow for compassionate care visits.

Ohio’s nursing home facilities are required to report their visitation status to Ohio's Long-Term Care Visitation Dashboard.

If you have a loved one in need of a compassionate care visit but are having trouble scheduling a visit, contact Ohio's Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman at OhioOmbudsman@age.ohio.gov or 1-800-282-1206.

February 8, 2021

Ohioans 65 years of age and older are now eligible for the COVID19 Vaccine

(Portsmouth, OH) – Beginning today (Monday – February 8, 2021) Ohioans 65 years of age and older are now eligible to get vaccinated in Ohio.

Beginning next Monday (February 15, 2021) Ohioans with severe congenital, developmental, or early-onset, and inherited conditions including cerebral palsy; spina bifida; severe congenital heart disease requiring hospitalization within the past year; severe type 1 diabetes requiring hospitalization within the past year; inherited metabolic disorders including phenylketonuria; severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, hydrocephaly, and microcephaly; severe genetic disorders including Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and muscular dystrophy; severe lung disease, including asthma requiring hospitalization within the past year, and cystic fibrosis; sickle cell anemia; and alpha and beta thalassemia; and solid organ transplant patients will be eligible to get vaccinated in Ohio.

Here are the providers of the COVID-19 vaccine in Scioto County:

Southern Ohio Medical Center (SOMC) Main Campus - 740-356-5000 - http://www.somc.org

Kroger Pharmacy - Portsmouth - 866-211-5320 - http://www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

Kroger Pharmacy - Wheelersburg - 866-211-5320 - http://www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

Portsmouth City Health Department - 740-352-7020 - http://portsmouthcityhealth.org

Scioto County Health Department - 740-302-3801 - http://sciotocountyhealthdepartment.com

Call a provider to set up an appointment. If you have already called and set up an appointment, please do not call again or call another provider. You are registered and will be called when it is your turn.

February 4, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine provided the following update on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic during his press conference on Thursday February 4th.

VACCINE UPDATE

Ohio is among the top five states for delivering COVID-19 vaccine doses to long-term care facility residents. As a result of this aggressive effort to vaccinate those in long-term care, Ohio is beginning to see a drop in cases.

Pfizer has notified Ohio that they believe they will increase their shipment of vaccine by 40 percent around mid-to-late February. Shipments could additionally increase even more by the end of March. Pfizer is currently shipping approximately 73,000 doses to Ohio per week.

Moderna doses have increased from 73,200 two weeks ago to 105,600 doses that are expected next week.

Ohio was one of the first states to draw unused doses from the long-term care program, and those 77,000 extra doses are being delivered this week to select CVS and Walgreens pharmacies.

Already Vaccinated? Keep Masking Up!

(Portsmouth, Ohio) – Over 9 percent of Scioto County residents have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. But health experts are reminding us that even after receiving the vaccination, we still must mask up, wash up, and keep our distance.

“While the vaccine protects us from getting sick, it still may be possible for us to spread the disease without knowing it,” said Molly Davis, Portsmouth City Health Department’s Epidemiologist. “Until we know more about the protection the vaccine provides, it is important that we continue wearing masks and follow all the other safety guidelines to protect each other against COVID-19.”

Recently there have been discussions about the possible need for wearing two masks to help stop the spread of the more contagious COVID variants that have been identified. The US Centers for Disease Control recommends wearing a mask with two or more layers. Their mask-wearing guidelines include: Choosing masks made of breathable fabrics that are tightly woven so that you cannot see light through them, using non-medical disposable masks, checking your mask for proper fit – snugly across the nose and chin with no large gaps at the side of the face, and consider using masks with inner filter pockets.

If your single mask does not meet the guidelines, the CDC suggests double masking as a way to provide more protection against illness.

It will take some time for enough people to be vaccinated to provide a large-scale level of immunity so it is important to continue to do your part to stop the spread even if you have already received your vaccine. So, keep wearing a mask. Keep your distance - at least six feet away from others. Avoid crowds. Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Follow CDC travel guidelines. If you are exposed to someone who has the COVID-19 virus, follow quarantine guidance provided by your local health departments. Be patient and be ready to register for the vaccine when it is your turn.

Vaccination Schedule For Ohio Schools Announced

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio K-12 schools, including public, private, and career-tech entities, today learned when their teachers and staff necessary for in-person learning are able to begin receiving vaccines.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has made clear his goal of Ohio returning to in-person learning either full-time or in a hybrid model by March 1st. In order to do this, the governor identified teachers and school personnel necessary for in-person learning as Phase 1B recipients as part of the Ohio COVID-19 Vaccination program.

“Vaccine is incredibly scarce, and we simply don’t have enough to vaccinate everyone at the same time. Therefore, this will be a rolling process, just like it has been during other vaccination phases, with a goal of administering all first doses by March 1st,” said Governor DeWine. “This rollout schedule is a heavy logistical lift that aims to ensure the maximum number of people can be vaccinated in the shortest amount of time.”

The plan also makes the process as simple as possible for staff to be vaccinated and is organized to allow most K-12 staff in a county to be vaccinated within seven days of their assigned vaccination start date. For the limited number of counties where vaccinations will take place over multiple weeks, local leaders will make the logistical and scheduling decisions.

Eligible recipients may learn more about the locations and times of the vaccination sites from their administrators. The following documents list the entities by county in the week when teachers and personnel are able to begin vaccinations.

Week One (Beginning February 1st)

Week Two (Beginning February 8th)

Week Three (Beginning February 15th)

Week Four (Beginning February 22nd)

January 28, 2021

Local Schools Waiting for Vaccination Scheduling

(Portsmouth, Ohio) – Governor DeWine announced this week that vaccinations will begin February 1 for school personnel in eight Ohio counties. However, Scioto County’s schools were not included by the state on the February 1 list. In order for schools to receive vaccines for their employees, Ohio school districts must commit to re-opening in person by March 1. To date, 96% of districts and schools in Ohio including those in Scioto County, have signaled their commitment to do so at least either full time or in a hybrid model.

School districts are working with local Educational Service Centers to establish partnerships with state-approved vaccination providers. The South-Central Ohio ESC in New Boston provides services for school districts in four counties including Scioto. SCOESC Superintendent Sandy Mers said 12 Scioto County schools have chosen Scioto Advantage as their approved provider, while Portsmouth City and Notre Dame Schools chose the Portsmouth City Health Department. Other providers approved for schools within the South-Central Ohio ESC service area include CVS, Walgreens, and Fitzgerald’s Pharmacy.

Superintendent Mers said, “The Ohio Department of Health is working with the vaccine partners to establish plans for where and when the school personnel will be vaccinated. We are working with the districts to pass along the information as quickly as we get it from the state.”

In Scioto County an average of 60 to 70 percent of school personnel have registered with the ESC to get vaccinated as soon as it is available. Superintendent Mers remarked, “We are grateful for the opportunity to get our school personnel vaccinated and ask everyone to be patient as we wait for our turn. It is still very important that students and employees continue to wear masks and follow all the necessary precautions to keep the schools safe and to do their part to prevent illness in our districts.”

School personnel who may have questions about local vaccination plans should speak with a representative of their own district.

January 25, 2021

(Columbus, Ohio) The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is continuing its rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine with those 75 and older becoming eligible today (1/25/2021) for the shot.

ODH started distribution for Phase 1B last week with residents 80 and older being allowed to get vaccinated first. Those 80 and older will continue to be eligible for the shot as the new age groups are added each week.

Here is the current timeline per the state’s plan:

Jan. 25 – Ohioans 75 years of age and older; those with a developmental or intellectual disability AND one of the conditions: cerebral palsy; spina bifida; severe congenital heart disease requiring hospitalization within the past year; severe type 1 diabetes requiring hospitalization within the past year; inherited metabolic disorders including phenylketonuria; severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, hydrocephaly, and microcephaly; severe genetic disorders including Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and muscular dystrophy; severe lung disease, including asthma requiring hospitalization within the past year, and cystic fibrosis; sickle cell anemia; and alpha and beta thalassemia; and solid organ transplant patients. If people believe they fit in this category, they should contact their local board of developmental disabilities, which will help coordinate vaccinations.

Feb. 1 – Ohioans 70 years of age and older; employees of K-12 schools that wish to remain or return to in-person or hybrid models.

Feb. 8 – Ohioans 65 years of age and older.

Feb. 15 – Ohioans with severe congenital, developmental, or early-onset, and inherited conditions including cerebral palsy; spina bifida; severe congenital heart disease requiring hospitalization within the past year; severe type 1 diabetes requiring hospitalization within the past year; inherited metabolic disorders including phenylketonuria; severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, hydrocephaly, and microcephaly; severe genetic disorders including Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and muscular dystrophy; severe lung disease, including asthma requiring hospitalization within the past year, and cystic fibrosis; sickle cell anemia; and alpha and beta thalassemia; and solid organ transplant patients. Additional guidance is forthcoming regarding those individuals who will become eligible Feb. 15.

Here are the providers of the COVID-19 vaccine in Scioto County:

Southern Ohio Medical Center (SOMC) Main Campus - 740-356-5000 - http://www.somc.org

Kroger Pharmacy - Portsmouth - 866-211-5320 - http://www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

Kroger Pharmacy - Wheelersburg - 866-211-5320 - http://www.kroger.com/rx/guest/get-vaccinated

Portsmouth City Health Department - 740-352-7020 - http://portsmouthcityhealth.org

Scioto County Health Department - 740-302-3801 - http://sciotocountyhealthdepartment.com

January 19, 2021

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine today provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

PHASE 1B TIMELINE

Governor DeWine today highlighted the vaccine distribution timeline for Phase 1B of Ohio's vaccination program, which began today for those ages 80 and up. Governor DeWine was joined by several Ohioans, who received a vaccination as part of Phase 1B.

Week of January 25: Vaccinations are anticipated to begin for those ages 75 and up. Vaccinations will also be available to those with severe congenital, developmental, or early-onset medical disorders, and who have a developmental or intellectual disability.

A representative from the local county developmental disabilities board will reach out to help coordinate receipt of the vaccination for Ohioans with severe congenital, developmental, or early-onset medical disorders, as well as a developmental or intellectual disability.

During the week of February 15, Ohioans with any of these conditions, and do not have a developmental or intellectual disability, will be eligible to receive the vaccination. Additional information on how these individuals can choose to receive their vaccines is forthcoming.

"This group has been identified by medical professionals as having a high risk of death if they caught COVID-19," said Governor DeWine. "It's critical that we continue to prioritize Ohioans who are most vulnerable."

Each provider will begin administering vaccines the day after they receive their shipment. All vaccines must be distributed within seven days.

Week of February 1: Vaccinations are anticipated to begin for those ages 70 and up following the same process outlined above.

Week of February 8: Vaccinations are anticipated to begin for those ages 65 and up following the same process outlined above.

The Ohio Department of Health has launched a tool on vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov to assist residents looking for a provider that has been allocated vaccines.

The tool is searchable by zip code and county, but it will not be uploaded in real-time. It is critical that those eligible to receive a vaccine consult local resources to determine up-to-date vaccine availability.

K-12 SCHOOLS

Vaccinations will also be available for personnel in Ohio schools in Phase 1B. As of today, 96% of public-school districts have committed to returning to school at least partially in-person by March 1.

Schools committed to at least partially returning to in-person by March 1 have been designated a local Educational Service Center as a working partner. Additional details will be confirmed this week between the working partners and school districts.

School districts are also choosing a retail pharmacy partner, secured by the state, or an existing local partnership, to administer the vaccinations to school personnel. Beginning the week of February 1, vaccination administration will be coordinated with school-provider partnerships, and a majority will be closed clinics for school personnel only.

CURRENT CASE DATA

In total, there are 836,055 confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19 reported in Ohio and 10,336 confirmed and probable COVID-19 deaths. A total of 43,605 people have been hospitalized throughout the pandemic, including 6,391admissions to intensive care units. In-depth data can be accessed by visiting coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Video of today's full update, including versions with foreign language translation, can be viewed on the Ohio Channel's YouTube page.

For more information on Ohio's response to COVID-19, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH.

January 15, 2021

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has established a website that enables Ohioans to find vaccine providers in their area.

This tool shows providers throughout Ohio who have received shipments of Covid-19 vaccines for those currently being vaccinated in Phase 1B. As more vaccine providers receive shipments, they will be added to the ODH's vaccine provider webpage.

On the webpage you will be able to search for vaccine providers by county or zip code. The tool will enable you to see a list of providers in our area with website and contact information each provider. This will help you register for a vaccine as each specific age group becomes eligible.

At this time, Ohioans age 80 and older are the first group eligible.

Here is the schedule for the next few weeks:

The week of Jan. 19: Ohioans 80 years of age and older.
The week of Jan. 25: Ohioans 75 years of age and older; those with severe congenital or developmental disorders.
The week of Feb. 1: Ohioans 70 years of age and older; employees of K-12 schools that wish to remain or return to in-person or hybrid models.
The week of Feb. 8: Ohioans 65 years of age and older.

Each provider manages its own schedules and appointments. This tool is intended help make site information easily accessible to Ohioans. It is important to call or visit the website of a provider in advance to ensure the provider is conducting vaccinations at this time and to make arrangements to be vaccinated. Websites, contact information, and addresses listed are submitted by vaccine providers.

To access ODH's Vaccine Provider Tool go to:

https://vaccine.coronavirus.ohio.gov/

COVID-19 Update: Phase 1B Timeline

January 12, 2021 - (COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted today provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

PHASE 1B TIMELINE

Governor DeWine today reemphasized the vaccine distribution timeline for Phase 1B of Ohio's vaccination program which is set to begin next week with those ages 80 and older.

This week: Today, the Ohio Department of Health will receive information from the federal government on Ohio's vaccine allotment for the upcoming week. This information, including which providers will receive vaccines and how many, will be communicated to local health departments this evening. Each county health department, in partnership with their local emergency management agency and vaccine providers, will communicate vaccine distribution plans with the media and the public on Wednesday and Thursday. The process to vaccinate those in each county will vary depending on the provider. Some are expected to hold walk-up clinics, others may take appointments, etc.

On Thursday, the Ohio Department of Health will launch a tool on coronavirus.ohio.gov to assist citizens looking for a provider that has been allotted vaccines. The tool will be searchable by zip code or county, but it will not be updated in real-time. It is critical that those eligible to receive a vaccine consult local sources to determine up-to-date vaccine availability.

Hospitals that are vaccinating their frontline healthcare workers as part of Phase 1A must complete these vaccinations by Sunday, January 17.

Week of January 18: Vaccine providers will begin receiving their first allotment of vaccines for those ages 80 and older. Vaccines will be delivered on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Each provider will begin administering vaccines the day after they receive their shipment. All vaccines must be distributed within seven days.

Week of January 25: Vaccinations are anticipated to begin for those ages 75 and up following the same process outlined above. Vaccinations will also be available to those with severe congenital, developmental, or early-onset medical disorders. Additional information on how these individuals can choose to receive their vaccines is forthcoming.

Week of February 1: Vaccinations are anticipated to begin for those ages 70 and up following the same process outlined above.

Week of February 8: Vaccinations are anticipated to begin for those ages 65 and up following the same process outlined above.

Vaccine providers are not expected to vaccinate everyone in each age group in one week. As new age groups are authorized to receive vaccinations, previous age groups will continue receiving the vaccine.

Senior citizens with questions on the vaccination process are urged to contact the Area Agencies on Aging at www.aging.ohio.gov or by calling 1-866-243-5678.

NURSING HOME VACCINATIONS

To date, 85 percent of Ohio's nursing homes have been visited by a vaccine provider as part of Phase 1A. Vaccine providers anecdotally tell the Ohio Department of Health that the number of residents and staff accepting the vaccine is increasing.

In Ohio's two nursing homes operated by the Ohio Department of Veteran Services, 92 percent of veterans have accepted the vaccine. Regarding staff, 60 percent have opted to receive the vaccine in the Sandusky home and 42 percent have chosen to be vaccinated in the Georgetown home.

Scioto County Emergency Management

729 Sixth Street

Portsmouth, OH 45662

Phone: 740-355-8300

For Immediate Release

January 8, 2021

Low Vaccine Doses and High Demand Creating Challenges for Local Health Departments

(Portsmouth, OH) – After a strong rollout of the local COVID vaccination process, Portsmouth City and Scioto County Health Departments are faced with a challenge. Both departments have received fewer doses of the vaccine than anticipated in the past couple of weeks.

The fewer doses available locally have slowed down the health departments’ progress toward completing Phase 1a of the vaccination program and will likely delay or slow down beginning Phase 1b which includes individuals 65 and over, and those who work in schools.

With Governor DeWine’s recent announcement that Ohioans 80 and over would be eligible for the vaccine the week of January 18^th, local residents in that group were hopeful that their turn to be vaccinated would be coming soon.

Scioto County Health Commissioner Dr. Jerod Walker said, “our vaccination schedule is completely dependent upon how much vaccine we receive each week. Currently, we are only receiving about 20% of the doses that we had anticipated. When our shipments of doses increase, we will be able to complete Phase 1a and move into Phase 1b, which includes older individuals.”

Portsmouth City Health Commissioner Chris Smith added, “We ask that residents be patient and continue to wear your masks, wash your hands, social distance, and avoid gatherings. We want to get everyone who wants a vaccine, vaccinated as quickly as we receive the amount of vaccine that we need.”

For questions about the process, residents can call the vaccine hotline at 740-352-7020. Follow the local health departments and Scioto EMA on Facebook or go to www.sciotocovid19.com.

# #

PHASE 1B VACCINATIONS

Governor DeWine announced today (1/7/2021) those in Phase 1B will be able to receive vaccinations beginning on Tuesday, January 19. Those 80 years of age and older will be prioritized first in this next phase, roughly totaling 420,000 Ohioans. Ohio is expected to receive 100,000 doses during the first week of distribution to Phase 1B.

“With up to 420,000 people 80 years and above, and only 100,000 doses available the first week, it will take several weeks to vaccinate those 80 years of age and older," said Governor DeWine. "Phase 1B will take a few weeks, and a lot of coordination in distribution.”

Vaccines for Ohioans 80 years of age and older will be administered by physicians, local health departments, hospitals, federally qualified health centers, in-home health service providers, and some retail pharmacies. As of today, the Ohio Department of Health has approximately 1,700 providers registered to distribute vaccines.

Additionally, the Ohio Department of Health will be hosting a webinar for registered providers to discuss expectations, and instructions for distribution. Additional details will be shared with registered providers in the coming days.

Governor DeWine anticipates vaccinations will be available to Ohioans 75 years of age and older beginning Monday, January 25. The following week, vaccinations will be available to those 65 years of age and older.

“As we include other age ranges, please know that does not mean vaccinations will be complete for the previous age range,” said Governor DeWine.

The week of January 25 will also include vaccinations for Ohioans with severe congenital, developmental, or early onset medical disorders. Additional details about distribution for this group will be forthcoming.

During the week of February 1, Governor DeWine announced that vaccinations will be available for personnel in Ohio schools. The Ohio Department of Heath will send forms to Ohio superintendents to indicate their school plans to go back to in full in-person and hybrid learning by March 1, as well as indicate the number of staff they believe will choose to take the vaccination. Superintendents will also be asked if a community partner has been identified to help with the administering of the COVID-19 vaccines to school personnel.

Additional information about vaccinations can be found at coronavirus.ohio.gov.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

January 5, 2021

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Dan Tierney: 614-644-0957

Breann Almos: 614-799-6480

COVID-19 Update: Vaccination Phases,

Nursing Home Vaccinations, Virus Variant,

Vaccine Redistribution

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted, and Ohio Department of Health Chief Medical Officer Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff provided the following updates on Ohio's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

VACCINATION PHASES

Governor DeWine today recapped Phases 1A and 1B of Ohio's vaccine distribution plan. Because the availability of the vaccine remains limited in Ohio and across the country, Ohio is taking a phased approach that prioritizes the most vulnerable citizens, those in the healthcare field, and school staff members.

Phase 1A, which is currently underway, includes approximately 1 million Ohioans.

It is anticipated that vaccine distribution in Phase 1B will begin as Phase 1A begins to wind down.

Phase 1B focuses largely on those who are 65 and older. Those in this age group are most vulnerable to COVID-19 and make up more than 87 percent of Ohioans who have died from the virus. Phase 1B also includes schoolteachers and other school staff who will be offered the vaccine in an effort to get Ohio's children back to school as soon as possible. In total, Phase 1B includes an estimated 2.2 million people.

Details of future phases of the vaccination plan will be announced as Phases 1A and 1B progress and as Ohio receives vaccines for the future phases. Ohio is currently receiving roughly 100,000 vaccines each week, although that number could increase if more vaccines are approved for administration.

NURSING HOME VACCINATIONS

As of Sunday, approximately 61 percent of nursing homes in Ohio have been visited by a pharmacy vaccine provider. Of those locations, only approximately 40 percent of staff members have chosen to receive the vaccination. Of nursing home residents, approximately 75 to 80 percent of residents have decided to receive the vaccine.

Nursing home staff and residents who have received their first dose of vaccine will begin receiving second doses on Friday. Governor DeWine encouraged those in nursing homes who initially declined to receive the vaccine to get their first dose as part of this second round. Following this opportunity, it may be some time before a first dose is available again.

VACCINE DISCUSSIONS FOR LONG-TERM CARE PROVIDERS

The Ohio Department of Aging will be hosting live discussions to help educate long-term care providers about the importance of the COVID-19 vaccine. State and community vaccine experts will be available to answer questions about the vaccine, and participants will have the opportunity to offer input to help state leaders make decisions to guide Ohio out of the pandemic.

VIRUS VARIANT

Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, Chief Medical Officer for the Ohio Department of Health, provided information related to the coronavirus variation that was first seen in the United Kingdom.

"Although virus variations are normal, and most do not impact the behavior of a virus, this variation is notable because it appears to be more contagious than other variants of the coronavirus," said Dr. Vanderhoff. "Fortunately, this variant doesn't appear to be more severe or to impact those who are already immune, but it worries us because a more contagious variant could lead to more people getting sick, more people being hospitalized, and more people dying."

Ohio currently has three times the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations that it had on November 1 and nearly seven times the number of COVID-19 hospitalizations that it had on October 1.

Dr. Vanderhoff stressed the importance of continuing Ohio's coronavirus protocols of social distancing, avoiding crowds, washing hands, wearing masks, and accepting the vaccine when available to prevent the spread of all variants of the coronavirus and to prevent further increases in hospitalizations.

VACCINE REDISTRIBUTION PLANS

The Ohio Department of Health will be issuing a directive requiring vaccine providers to develop a surplus vaccine redistribution plan. The directive follows a recent incident in which a long-term care facility in Ohio overestimated the number of vaccine doses needed for residents and staff. Seven vials of vaccine (35 doses) were not administered and expired.

"Every vaccine dose that Ohio receives must be administered," said Governor DeWine. "Each vaccine represents a potential life saved, and it is our obligation to ensure that not a single dose is wasted."

Vaccine redistribution plans will prioritize recipients based on Phase 1A and 1B vaccine distribution criteria. If a significant number of doses remain, vaccine providers must contact the Ohio Department of Health for immediate redistribution assistance.

For Immediate Release

January 4, 2021

SCIOTO COUNTY READY TO ENETER PHASE 1B SOON

(Portsmouth, OH) – Once the county receives an adequate amount of vaccine and the state gives approval, Scioto County is ready to enter Phase 1b of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout. Phase 1b includes Ohioans 65 and older, those living with severe congenital, developmental or early-onset medical disorders, and adults who work in schools.

When Phase 1b begins, the vaccine will be distributed by appointments to the 65+ population. Vaccinations for homebound seniors in this group will be coordinated by home health care agencies on an individual basis. Exact dates and appointments for the vaccination clinics will not be available until Ohio gives the okay for counties to move into Phase 1b, and the local health departments receive enough vaccine doses.

Scioto EMA Director Larry Mullins said, “Scioto County and Portsmouth City Health Departments received a smaller shipment of vaccine doses than anticipated this week. They are, however, continuing to vaccinate residents in group and congregate homes and any medical and healthcare workers with the limited amount of vaccine that has been received.”

Over 2200 individuals have received the first dose of the Moderna vaccine since the local rollout of the COVID-19 vaccination began December 21. Currently, Scioto County leads the state in the percentage of the population that has been vaccinated, at just under 3%.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local radio and tv for updates on vaccination schedules, as well as www.sciotocovid19.com, websites and social media pages for the Scioto EMA, Portsmouth City Health, and the Scioto County Health Department. When dates for the vaccination clinics are set, call 740-352-7020 for appointments.

Continue to do your part to stop the spread: Wear a mask, social distance, avoid gatherings, and get your vaccine when it is your turn.

Phase 1B Announced

On Dec. 23, Governor Mike DeWine announced the next broad category of people eligible to be vaccinated during Phase 1B. The goals of Phase 1B are to save lives and to have K-12 students back in school full time by March 1. This phase, which is estimated to begin in mid-January, includes:

o Ohioans age 65 and older.

o People with severe congenital, developmental, or early-onset medical disorders that make them particularly vulnerable. This includes cerebral palsy; spina bifida; congenital heart disease; type 1 diabetes; inherited metabolic disorders; severe neurological disorders including epilepsy; severe genetic disorders including Down Syndrome, Fragile X, Prader Willi Syndrome, and Turner Syndrome; severe lung disease including cystic fibrosis and severe asthma; sickle cell anemia; and alpha and beta thalassemia.

o Employees in all schools that want to go back, or to remain, educating in person.

The vaccine distribution plan for future priority populations is still under development and will be shared publicly as soon as it is finalized.

Second Dose Guidance

Shipments containing the second dose of COVID-19 vaccines are starting to arrive this week. Second doses will be administered starting Jan. 4 for healthcare staff who received vaccines during the first week of vaccine administration beginning Dec. 14 at Ohio’s 10 pre-positioned hospitals. Individuals who have already received a COVID-19 vaccine should keep track of when they are due for the second dose and schedule a follow-up appointment with their vaccine provider if they have not done so already. The second dose for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is due 21 days after the first dose, and the second dose for the Moderna vaccine is due 28 days after the first dose.

New COVID-19 Maps

Governor DeWine shared two new maps for tracking how severe the spread of COVID-19 is in Ohio. The first map measures cases per capita over time. The first map is based on the list of high-incidence counties and indicates the levels of spread in a county. The second map shows each Hospital Preparedness Region and what percent of the overall ICU patient population are COVID-19 patients. Both maps will be updated weekly on Thursdays at coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Ohio National Guard

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that the Ohio National Guard received a waiver that will allow them to help administer the COVID-19 vaccine. The waiver gives the Ohio National Guard the flexibility to fully utilize National Guard medical personnel trained in administering the vaccine. The Ohio National Guard has approximately 600 members who are medical personnel, including physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, and medics. Ohio is working to determine how it will best utilize Guard medical personnel without adversely affecting Ohio healthcare systems’ critical medical resources by removing Guard members from their civilian medical positions.

In Phase 1A and Want a Vaccine?

The Portsmouth City Health Department is scheduling vaccinations now for people who are prioritized in Phase 1A of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and not vaccinated by hospitals or healthcare systems.

Phase 1A includes home health and hospice workers, Emergency Medical Services responders, primary care practitioners, including family and general medicine providers, dental providers, surgeons, Federal Qualified Health Center providers, and public health employees.

Call 740-352-7020 today to schedule a convenient drive-up appointment. If you are unsure if you are included in Phase 1A, please call.

Do your part. Wear a mask, social distance, avoid large gatherings, and get your vaccine when it is your turn.

Scioto County Vaccine Plan Continues

The Scioto County Vaccine Plan continues as both the Portsmouth City and Scioto County Health Departments continued to vaccinate high-risk healthcare workers and first responders this week.

Pictured is Portsmouth Fire Chief William Raison administering a vaccine to a frontline worker at the Portsmouth City Health Department’s by appointment drive through vaccine event Monday (12/28/2020) beside the health department on 6^th Street.

Staff from the Portsmouth City Health Department with assistance from the Portsmouth Fire and Police Departments administer 162 vaccines at the event.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 28, 2020

Smooth Rollout for First Week of Scioto County Vaccines

Portsmouth, Ohio - According to the Scioto EMA Joint Information Center, approximately 814 people in Scioto County including health care personnel, EMS, and public health vaccination staff have received their first doses of the Moderna vaccine for COVID-19 in the county’s first week of vaccinating. Christine Thomas,

Portsmouth City Health Department’s Director of Nursing was the first in the county to receive the vaccine.

Another shipment of Moderna doses is expected to arrive at local health departments, hospitals, and other Ohio Department of Health-approved facilities this week. Scioto County vaccination sites will continue to provide the vaccine to front line health care workers, then offer the vaccination to staff and then the residents of long-term care facilities and home health care providers once more doses are available. The Moderna vaccine requires a second dose 28 days after the first.

“If our shipments of doses continue to arrive as expected, we hope to have phase 1a completed and move into Phase 1b which will include essential workers, adults working in schools, and citizens over-65 by the end January,” said Portsmouth City Health Commissioner Chris Smith. “If the process continues to go smoothly, we will be able to move to phase 1c which will include citizens 16 to 64 with high-risk medical conditions. Phase 2, which is the general population, will begin immediately after we complete all of phase 1.”

Scioto County Health Commissioner Dr. Jerod Walker added, “as more people choose to get the vaccine, we make important steps toward controlling the spread of COVID-19. But we are still months away from ending this pandemic so continue to wear a mask, wash your hands, social distance, and avoid gathering with those outside of your household.”

Local vaccine information is available by calling 740-352-7020 or online at www.sciotocovid19.com.

Portsmouth City Health Dept. (PCHD) Director of Nursing Christine Thomas injecting Public Health Nurse Mandy Whisman with the Covid19 vaccine.

First Vaccines Given in Scioto County

A historic milestone happened Monday, December 21, 2020 in the fight against the Coronavirus in the Scioto County area as both the Portsmouth City and Scioto County Health Departments received 500 doses of the Covid-19 vaccine.

Portsmouth City Health Department (PCHD) Director of Nursing Christine Thomas officially received the first shot, administered by PCHD Public Health Nurse Mandy Whisman.

In turn, Director Thomas administered the second shot to Nurse Whisman.

The nurses volunteered to be the first to take the shots in order to do their part to further slow the spread of the virus and to show others that it is safe, effective, and worth taking.