FCPH COVID-19 Status Statement – September 18, 2020

Transparency and communication have been a priority of Franklin County Public Health (FCPH) during the COVID-19 response. We participate in daily briefings with the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, convene webinars for interested parties to discuss state orders and guidance, engage directly with local government, host a weekly call for stakeholders and update our website daily with data, resources and guidance. Some timely examples of this include special webinars we have hosted with faith leaders, senior centers, and adult day care centers. We also continue to meet regularly with our schools and are working within our health jurisdiction to facilitate reporting to the Ohio Department of Health.

Overall, Franklin County has seen an increase in new daily cases of COVID-19 over the past few weeks, while hospitalizations have remained level. The increase in cases is a reminder of the importance of continuing to take precautions when in the community. Franklin County remains at Level 2 (orange) in the Ohio Public Health Alert Advisory System. While we continue to respond to COVID-19, we also turn our attention to seasonal influenza. It’s critical that residents 6 months and older get a flu shot this year to reduce the spread of the flu and its impact on our hospital systems. A flu shot will keep you, your family, friends and our community healthy. Those who are elderly and need help getting to their healthcare provider’s office can contact the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging at (614) 645-7250. More information about seasonal influenza can be found on our website.

 

Joe Mazzola, MPA
Franklin County Health Commissioner