COVID-19 Update, 2020-10-20

The following map shows cumulative COVID-19 infections by county. Communities shaded in darker gray have higher cases per 100,000 population than counties with lighter shading. The light red circles depict total infections. 

For the most part, infection rates tend to be higher in and around Ohio's urban centers, with Franklin County presenting the highest rate and the highest number of total cases.

On a more positive note, the next graph shows the percentage of identified cases resulting in death for Ohio's three largest metropolitan counties, by month. The data show a remarkable reduction in the ratio of deaths to cases, an important accomplishment for Ohio's healthcare system.

Many Ohioans continue to be concerned about the ongoing COVID-19 rate of infection. Most of us are aware that cases are increasing as we move into colder weather. The following charts show how Ohio's moving seven day average of new infections compares with contiguous states. 

Unsurprisingly, the trend is up throughout the region. Kentucky and Indiana are experiencing more pronounced increases than Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

 COVID-19 Update, October 5, 2020

The following charts show COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations and deaths per 100,000 population by Ohio region through September 24. Cases tend to rise and fall and then rise again. It is interesting to note that infection rates were higher in Ohio's second wave while hospitalization and death rates peaked in the spring. 

Infection rates for the period were highest in Central Ohio, hospitalization rates were highest in the Northwest and deaths were highest in the North East. 

South East Ohio recorded the lowest rate of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. Paradoxically, this region also has the highest percentage of residents with underlying conditions.