MARION — Marion Public Health officials say the first confirmed case of coronavirus in the county was reported Friday.

Health Commissioner Traci Kinsler said a 66-year-old man has tested positive for the virus. The individual is recovering at home, she said. The agency declined to release any further information

“We are working closely with the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), following protocols and guidance in place, to identify close contacts of this individual who will be instructed to self-quarantine, and public health will monitor for 14 days,” Kinsler said. “Our focus right now is to support the care of this individual and protect the health of our residents.”

There are more than 200,000 confirmed cases worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. The Ohio Department of Health reported Friday that Ohio has experienced its first death due to coronavirus. Gov. Mike DeWine confirmed during his press conference that a Lucas County man died from the disease. There are now 169 confirmed cases in 28 counties across the state.

As she stated earlier this week, Kinsler said receiving news of a conformed case is not a surprise.

“We have been planning and preparing to respond to cases when they occur," she said. "We have community interventions in place that are designed to slow transmission in our community while lessening the impact. Our investigation is on-going. Our main goal is to isolate those who are ill, identify close contacts and monitor for illness. We would expect more positive cases to trickle in as test results come back on people who have been tested.”

Kinsler said residents should be aware of coronavirus symptoms, which include a fever, dry cough, shortness of breath or tightness in the chest. Health officials are directing people who believe they are exhibiting symptoms to stay home and isolate themselves.

More Ohio coronavirus news:

For information about coronavirus, visit the ODH website www.coronavirus.ohio.gov.

eacarter@marionstar.com

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