ASHLAND — A week after reporting Ashland County’s second COVID-19 related death, the Ashland County Health Department (ACHD) is reporting two additional COVID-19 related deaths of Ashland County residents
In a press release issued Friday afternoon, the Ashland County Health Department reported the third and fourth deaths, and said it is also investigating a fifth death in association with novel coronavirus.
The third Ashland County death is related to an outbreak associated with the American Legion in Jeromesville. Currently, the ACHD estimates that approximately 55 individuals have been impacted by this outbreak. Some of these are members of the organization, according to the health department’s release.
“If you believe that you have been exposed to a positive case, self-quarantine immediately and contact the health department,” said Shirley Bixby, ACHD Director of Nursing. “Unfortunately, we have already seen one death and three hospitalizations related to this outbreak.”
The health department asks that members of the Legion and residents of Jeromesville stay highly vigilant in monitoring their health and contact their doctor immediately if they feel ill.
“At a time when those who are most vulnerable in our community are threatened, we must do whatever we can protect them,” said Jeromesville Mayor Randy Spade in the release. “That being said, I encourage everyone to observe the recommended measures, contact your doctor if you exhibit any symptoms, and be safe.
“We continue to hold those members of our community who have been affected by the virus and their families up in prayer.”
The fourth Ashland County death is related to the outbreak that occurred at the McMullen Assisted Care facility in Loudonville. This is the same outbreak the county’s second COVID-related death was attributed to by the local health department.
In total, there were 50 individuals affected by this outbreak, including 15 employees, 16 patients, and 19 contacts.
At this time, the health department and other partners are working to support the facility in adopting effective policies and procedures to safely reopen, according to the release. Seven individuals are being monitored by public health nurses.
At this time, the ACHD is investigating a total of five outbreaks within the Ashland County, each at various levels of concern.
As of Friday, there have been a total of 99 positive COVID-19 cases, of which, 96 are confirmed positives and three are probable cases, according to the health department. Of the 99, there are 34 active cases, 61 recovered individuals and four deaths. There is one individual in intensive care at the local hospital.
The recent update shows an increase of 19 total cases since last Thursday, when 70 confirmed positive cases were reported. On July 9, there were 27 active cases in the Ashland community and no hospitalizations at that time.
This week, there are also 248 Ashland County residents being monitored by a public health nurse for COVID-19 symptoms as a result of their exposure to the virus.
“With regards to the recent COVID-19 deaths, we are a small community and there may be public awareness of someone’s passing before the health department releases the information,” said Heather Reffett, Ashland County’s Health Commissioner. “We believe that it is very important to not report that a death is COVID-related until the cause of death is listed on the official record which is completed by a medical physician. It can be very difficult for family members to hear inaccurate information.
“As public health professionals, we are very aware of the sensitivities surrounding the release of public health data and the impact that numbers have on a community. We want to be thoughtful as well as respectful to the family. We continue to hold those who have lost a family member to COVID-19 in our thoughts and prayers.”
Last Thursday, the health department committed to share local COVID-19 numbers weekly, either Thursday or Friday.
