“A dangerous path” - DeWine implores Ohioans to unite to prevent COVID-10 spread
In a statewide address from his office in the Statehouse on July 15, Gov. Mike DeWine said that the state is at a critical point in the COVID-19 pandemic and implored Ohioans to take appropriate action to reverse the rapidly increasing spread of the virus.
He stopped short, however, of mandating face coverings statewide or any other order involving coronavirus safety. Instead, he again pleaded for Ohioans to wear masks and social distance.
“Today, more Ohioans are getting sick than at any previous point in this pandemic. We are sliding down a very dangerous path, with our once-flattened curve starting to sharpen and spike,” Gov. DeWine said. “This is a worrisome, disturbing reversal of our progress – a jarring reminder of just how quickly our fate can change.”
DeWine commended Ohioans for doing their part at the beginning of the pandemic. He reminded Ohioans that, with positive cases increasing, the choices they make today will impact the spread of the virus in the coming weeks. During the speech, he reminded Ohioans about the efficacy of facial coverings to protect themselves, loved ones, friends, neighbors and other citizens. He also renewed the call to socially distance and limit public gatherings.
“I am calling on all Ohioans to once again unite. We must work together, support each other, and help each other through this challenging time. I’ve seen you do this. I know you can do this. Ohioans can continue to help our most vulnerable, while also protecting ourselves and our families. Together, we can be the Ohio where our hospitals are not overwhelmed, where our schools can open, where sports can start, and where our economy can continue to grow, Governor DeWine added.
A video of the address is available on the Ohio Channel’s YouTube page.
For more information about COVID-19, including testing locations, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov.