Toledo-Lucas County Health Department Commissioner Eric Zgodzinski today confirmed 13 COVID-19 cases in Lucas County, of which two are fatalities.
The cases include nine men and four women, ranging in age from 29 to 79. Five of the cases are travel-based and six include underlying conditions, Mr. Zgodzinski said.
“Everyone needs to adhere to the guidelines,” Mr. Zgodzinski said. “Stay at home if you are sick, only go out for essential needs, and wash your hands.”
The fire chiefs from Toledo, Springfield Township, Whitehouse, and Sylvania Township joined the health commissioner to discuss first responder preparedness. All Toledo area fire departments continue to work collaboratively with each other and in conjunction with the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department to create a process for first responders to be protected and tested.
Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) will be instituted for all fire department runs, and a health and wellness officer position has been created to act as a single source of information for first responders to get needed information.
There are currently 24 Lucas County first responders in quarantine and three in isolation.
“The difference between quarantine and isolation is important,” Mr. Zgodzinski said. “Isolation is designed for those who have been exposed and are experiencing symptoms. Quarantine is for those who may have been exposed but are not experiencing symptoms.”
Residents are asked to be responsible on the use of 911. All informational calls or general health information requests should be directed to the health department hotline numbers first, 419-251-4000 or 419-291-5355.
The following fire chiefs spoke during the news conference:
·Fire Chief Brian Byrd, Toledo Fire & Rescue
·Fire Chief Barry Cousino, Springfield Township Fire
·Fire Chief Josh Hartbarger, Whitehouse Fire
·Fire Chief Mike Ramm, Sylvania Township Fire
The news conference can be viewed at this link: https://www.facebook.com/tlchd/videos/170985847224086/