2nd local coronavirus death reported

WAPAKONETA - A 64-year-old Auglaize County man is that county's first resident to die of COVID-19 and the second locally.

The Auglaize County Health Department announced the death in a Thursday news release. Health commissioner Oliver Fisher said the department learned of the death early that morning.

"Auglaize County Health Department staff would like to express our deepest sympathies and we send our thoughts and prayers to his family," Fisher said in the release.

No further information will be released about the victim out of respect for the family and to protect their privacy, according to the release. As of Thursday evening, the Auglaize health department had reported eight confirmed cases and two hospitalizations.

In Mercer County, officials on Thursday announced a new case of COVID-19, raising the total number of people infected with the virus in that county to 12. This latest case is a hospitalized man from 80-90 years old, according to a news release from the Mercer County Health District.

The health district also reports 18 pending cases, 88 negative cases, two hospitalizations and one death of COVID-19 in the county.

The district said daily numbers are cumulative, except for the number of hospitalizations, which is current. When a hospitalized person is discharged, he or she is removed from the hospitalization total. However, he or she remains in the count of total positive cases.

Fisher emphasized that COVID-19 is spreading easily among communities. He urged people to continue social distancing to prevent the spread of the virus and limit all non-essential activities.

"Stay home, stay safe, save lives," Fisher said.

Warm weather may tempt people to have gatherings while staying 6 feet apart. However, Fisher said it's not worth the risk.

"You really need to keep in mind whenever you go out there's a chance of contracting it," Fisher said. "You may stay 6 feet apart, but you may have touched a common surface."

The Ohio Department of Health is predicting a peak of 1,600 new cases per day. As of Thursday night 5,512 confirmed cases, 1,612 hospitalizations and 213 deaths have been reported in the state, according to ODH.

COVID-19 symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure. Older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions such as heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19.

People can protect themselves against COVID-19 by washing their hands often, covering their mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing and frequently cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces. They should also avoid close contact and stay at least 6 feet away from others.

The CDC says people should seek medical attention if they experience emergency warning signs, including trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion and bluish lips or face. The list is not inclusive, and people should consult their medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.