COLUMBUS — Ohio’s health director is warning Ohioans against complacency about COVID-19.
An average of 35 Ohioans die from COVID-related complications each week, according to the Ohio Department of Health.
Health department data show the illness has killed nearly 1,000 Ohioans this year, while more than 6,000 hospitalizations for COVID-19 have been reported across the state through Oct. 23.
“COVID-19 has not gone away, and it remains a very real threat,” said Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, director of the Ohio Department of Health.
“The virus continues to evolve and can cause serious illness or death, particularly among those who are unvaccinated. As a state, we need to take caution and not let our guard down.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone age 6 months or older receive an updated COVID-19 shot alongside their yearly flu shot to protect against severe illness, including “long COVID.”
“With colder weather and the holiday season fast approaching, getting vaccinated is as important as ever, especially as we look forward to indoor gatherings with friends and loved ones,” Vanderhoff said in a news release Wednesday.
