ODH: Fewer than 50 COVID-19 cases per 100K

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced Saturday that the state of Ohio reached a two-week statewide average of 49.5 cases per 100,000 residents.

The Ohio Department of Health said those cases occurred the two week period from May 22 to June 4, 2021.

“Ohioans have shown our resilience and grit, and by continuing to get vaccinated we are coming through this pandemic stronger than ever,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “When I announced this goal on March 4th, I said that reaching 50 cases per 100,000 would mean we were entering a new phase of this pandemic. Vaccinations are working. That’s why cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are down. But that doesn’t mean we can let our foot off the gas. If you’re not vaccinated against COVID-19, continue to wear a mask in public and Ohioans that are able to get vaccinated should.”

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As of June 5, more than 5.3 million Ohioans have started the vaccination process, which makes up 45.9% of all Ohio. ODH also reported that more than 4.7 million Ohioans are fully vaccinated.

In December 2020, cases per 100,000 residents were estimated at more than 900. Prior to June 4, the last time Ohio fell below 50 cases per 100,000 was on June 25, 2020 when cases were at 49.7%

A press release said, “Although this is a positive indicator in the fight against COVID-19, the threat of the virus remains. Individuals should continue taking proper preventative measures including washing, and sanitizing hands and surfaces frequently. While masking is no longer mandated, unvaccinated Ohioans should continue wearing masks indoors or in crowded settings where social distancing is not possible. Businesses and organizations can continue to require masking regardless of an individual’s vaccination status, including in healthcare settings.”

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