Health Dept.: Preparing for Coronavirus in Ohio

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – As more cases of the Coronavirus surface across the united states….Health officials are encouraging the public to be prepared.

Medical Director of the Zanesville Muskingum County Health Department Dr. Jack Butterfield says although the possiblity of the virus coming into Ohio remains low now is the time to prepare.

“We do not have Coronavirus or what’s called COVID-19 disease in Ohio. We don’t have it in Zanesville, we don’t have it in Muskingum County. So our risk here is low. That should be very reassuring. However, the cases are increasing in number across the country and so we need to take this opportunity when our risk is low, to become prepared.”

Dr. Butterfield says you should not be hoarding items but try not to be low on non-perishable food items, pet food, medications and other household items.

“Being prepared for Coronavirus is the same thing as being prepared for a disaster, for a flooding, for extended power outages. Let’s suppose you have to be self-quarantined for 14 days. You want to make sure you have adequate food supplies, adequate water if you like bottled water, make sure your medicines are adequate to get you through that time period. It doesn’t mean running out and emptying the stores of the grocery store right now. It means, as you go shopping the next few weeks, start building up supplies. “

For more information on how to prepare, go to the health department’s website.