COLUMBUS – The Ohio Health Department says the daily number of confirmed and probable coronavirus cases reported to the state has topped 1,000 for the first time in two months.
The state now has nearly 52,865 confirmed and probable cases, with a one-day reported increase of 1,076 compared to 743 reported on Tuesday. Data shows that over the past two weeks, the rolling average number of daily new cases has increased by 402, an increase of nearly 99%.
The number of deaths is 2,876.
The new figures released Wednesday came as the cities of Bexley and Dayton and Ohio State moved toward requiring mask wearing in all indoor spaces and Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther says the city may follow suit.
I commend @BexleyMayor and @nanwhaley for ordering facial coverings. We are seriously considering doing the same in #Columbus.
— Mayor Andrew Ginther (@MayorGinther) July 1, 2020
Students, faculty, staff and others at OSU will be required to wear masks indoors and sign a promise affirming their understanding of what is needed to help fight the spread of the virus and their intention to do their part.
“I support Mayor Whaley’s and Dayton’s decision to require the use of masks in public places. It’s an appropriate and welcome response to increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases in their area. Masks are recommended by the CDC and medical professionals to help protect other people. Wearing a mask will allow us to help keep businesses open and help prevent further spikes. I encourage other communities to consider following Dayton’s lead.” -Gov. Mike DeWine
An order that takes effect July 3 in effect in Bexley includes a requirement that face coverings must be worn in many indoor areas accessible to the public, such as restaurants and stores, The order, which ill remain in effect until July 20, was approved by a 5-1 vote June 26th.