9 Things Going Through Every Ohioan's Mind In Light Of The Coronavirus Pandemic
By April Dray|Published March 17, 2020
×
April Dray
Author
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
Last week, you likely carried on with your day as usual. This week, it’s a different story.
Ohioans all across the Buckeye State are adjusting their lives, schedules and habits to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus, also known as COVID-19. You likely have some questions about what’s safe to do and what’s not safe to do—and you’re probably wondering how you can keep your family and your finances healthy during the global pandemic. It’s a trying and uncertain time, and there are several thoughts and questions running through nearly every Ohioan’s mind that unite us all.
Officially named "SARS-CoV-2," the virus causes "coronavirus disease 2019" (abbreviated "COVID-19", which is a respiratory disease that was first detected in China in 2019, according to the CDC. Symptoms range from mild to severe and can result in death.
Common symptoms include fever, dry cough and shortness of breath. Older people and people of all ages with severe chronic medical conditions are currently more at risk. For more information visit the CDC's website.
Advertisement
3. How can I stay up to date with information about the Coronavirus and Ohio specifically?
To stay up to date on the latest recommendations and current cases in Ohio, you can visit the Ohio Department of Health's website. You can also call the ODH coronavirus disease 2019 call center at 1-833-427-5634 from 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. daily.
Masks won't help you avoid getting sick, but health experts believe they can help slow the spread of respiratory viruses if someone is already infected. Unless you are sick yourself, there is no need to wear a face mask.
Although your local grocery store might be open to the public for reduced hours due to stocking and sanitizing, grocery stores will remain open. Take a deep breath—and put back that 15th can of Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup.
Good news: You won't always have to. Order carry-out from your favorite hometown restaurant and support your local economy as much as possible during this uncertain time.
7. What on earth am I going to do with all my spare time?
Home from work for the unforeseeable future? Start a reading list. Clean out your closet. Take up a new hobby. Tackle the loads of laundry you've been ignoring for days on end. (Netflix and the couch aren't going anywhere.)
8. How on earth can I get out of my house without encountering crowds?
We're just as baffled as you but rest assured; it will be re-stocked. In the meantime, get creative—or better yet, ask a neighbor, family member or friend for a roll or two. Be there for each other and we'll get through this together. <3
What other questions are going through your mind as an Ohioan in light of the Coronavirus pandemic? Share your thoughts with us!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
