Gov. Mike DeWine signs executive order to close senior centers/adult daycares, warns businesses to follow guidelines
Madison Tromler
Amidst the chaos of the COVID-19 coronavirus, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted and Ohio Department of Health Director, Dr. Amy Acton, briefed Ohioans on the latest developments at 2:30 p.m. out of Columbus.
Currently in Ohio, the Department of Health confirmed there are 169 coronavirus cases in 28 different counties. There has been one confirmed death in Lucas County. 39 remain hospitalized.
DeWine knew the man, Mark Wagoner Sr., who died of COVID-19 and offered his prayers and condolences.
“We have now entered a new phase of our battle with COVID-19.” He said. “Lieutenant Governor Husted and I knew him very well. He was very well respected by everyone who knew him. All of us extend our deepest sympathy.”
Wagoner was a 76-year-old Lucas County attorney.
DeWine then announced the official closure of senior centers and adult day cares effective at the end of the business day on Monday, March 23rd.
“Our grave concern is about the danger of seniors being together and the spread of COVID-19.”
He assured senior citizens will have access to food delivered to their homes if need be.
He then went on to warn citizens and businesses of reckless behavior.
“Let me make it clear: I will air on the side of protecting people.” He said. “The bad behavior, the reckless behavior, must stop. The protection of life is the most important obligation that I have.”
He thanked businesses that have gone out their way to protect people; However, warned if citizens do not abide by the state’s COVID-19 guidelines, more shut downs will likely to occur.
“I think people can imagine what the next steps will be.” He said.
While addressing businesses, Lt. Governor Jon Husted issued an order to allow employers to take care of employees with a grace period for insurance premiums. Employers will be able to defer their premium payments for health insurance for up to two months.
Director of the Ohio Health Department, Dr. Amy Acton took the podium to discuss the latest developments surrounding testing. She said she’s discussing testing capabilities with officials and will have more details during the Saturday, March 21st briefing.
“It’s important to know most of us will stay home with this virus and won’t get tested.” Acton said.
She stressed the importance of assuming you have the virus and staying home if symptoms are present unless they become urgent or life threatening.
Husted discussed the moral importance of COVID-19 and the idea of sticking together as citizens. After being informed of grocery store argument outbreaks, he said “Put these cases back to back and think about that. Which side of this do you want to be on? Tough times show our character: either selfish or selfless.”
As the days go on and everyday lives continue to change, DeWine addresses the “new normal” every Ohioan is now facing.
“We can’t panic over this because we’re going to be doing this for a while.” He said. “Come up with a routine for how you want to live that is consistent with the new reality that we have to live under.”
Acton said Ohioans with questions can call the health department at 833-4-ASK-ODH.
For general COVID-19 symptoms: https://t.co/PnJET92lJU?amp=1
Madison Tromler is a Kent State reporter. Contact her at mtromler@kent.edu.
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