Coronavirus: Some Ohio polling places will have to be moved, LaRose says

Dayton — As part of the state of emergency enacted Monday by Gov. Mike DeWine because of the three confirmed cases of the coronavirus/COVID -19, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose ordered that polling places that are senior citizen living and nursing facilities be moved for the March 17 Ohio primary.

LaRose's office has sent detailed information to all 88 county boards of elections so they have time to prepare for the change.

DeWine said there are approximately 75 voting locations in the state that are in a nursing home.

"All Ohioans should consider taking advantage of convenient vote-from-home, by mail or voting at your county's early voting location," he said.

Make sure your ballot is postmarked by March 16, if you are voting by mail, so it will be counted, he said.

In Montgomery County, Board of Elections Director Jan Kelly said, "We are sending out a kit of supplies to all 360 precincts at 150 Polling Locations throughout Montgomery County."

The kit includes alcohol wipes, hand sanitizer and cleaning cloths.

"The Centers for Disease Control and each manufacturer of our voting equipment has recommended these specific cleaning products," Kelly said.

The risk to the general public in the U.S. remains low. However, Kelly said, it is important to prepare for the possibility of a COVID-19 outbreak in our communities.

Protect yourself and others around you by taking preventive measure to avoid infectious diseases:

Wash your hands for 20 seconds or more with soapy water several times a day. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid contact with people who are sick.

Stay home while you are sick (except to visit a health care professional) and avoid close contact with others.

Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces each day. Use a household cleaner according to label instructions.

Prepare your household with an emergency plan of action:

Keep enough food and medication in your home to last for at least two weeks.

Have plans in place should childcare facilities, schools, or workplaces close.

Prepare for the possible cancellation or postponement of large community events.

Be prepared to stay home if you are sick.

Follow additional credible information available at coronavirus.ohio.gov.