By Lee Bratcher/OC Monitor
HARTFORD, Ky. — Ohio County Judge-Executive David Johnston provided Ohio County with a somber update today as the Green River District Health Department reported 15 additional COVID-19 cases in the county.
Johnston has been updating the county on its battle with the virus every Tuesday and Friday for the last several weeks. Today’s large number of new cases warranted its own update. Johnston, who appeared extremely concerned, said COVID-19 has spread “all over” the county.
“By me coming to you today (on a Thursday), you know I’ve got big things to report and they’re not good,” Johnston said. “I’ve been telling you the (COVID-19) cases have been isolated, but that’s no longer the case. We have 15 new cases to report today and they’re not from the small areas like I said they were before. The game has changed.”
Johnston did provide a bit of good news, as there are “only a few hospitalized” of the 44 active cases of COIVD-19 in the county. At this time, 14 patients have recovered and there have been no deaths thus far in Ohio County due to the virus.
“Double down on your social distancing. Wear a mask. If you’re going out, wear a mask. Do not go into any business or anyplace away from your home without a mask on,” Johnston said. “Wear gloves, wash your hands. Do everything that you possibly can to stay safe.”
Johnston also strongly advised people not to allow anyone into their homes who aren’t wearing masks.
During Friday’s COVID-19 update, Johnston will give dates for opening businesses. However, many of the guidelines used now to stay safe will still be in place, such as social distancing and the wearing of masks.
“Please do everything you know to do to stop the spread of this disease,” Johnston said as he ended the update. “Basically, Ohio County, we need to double down on our prevention. I’ll still say this, Ohio County, we will get through this together.”
To view Johnston’s COVID-19 update for today, click here.