For Immediate Release DATE: August 14, 2020 NEWS RELEASE The Ashland County Health Department (ACHD) provides that as of today the COVID-19 local data is such: 161 positive cases, of which 156 are confirmed and 5 are probable. Of these cases, 17 are active, 139 recovered and there are 5 deaths. At this time, there are no hospitalizations. However, the health department is monitoring 70 individuals due to their exposure to the virus. For the active cases, 15 individuals are experiencing mild symptoms and 2 have moderate symptoms. There are no outbreaks occurring within the county.
The State of Ohio continues to assign Ashland County as a code yellow. “The fact that Ashland County has been able to maintain yellow status is a testament to the cautionary efforts of our residents and the hard work of our public health nurses”, stated Heather Reffett, the Ashland County Health Department. “While we do continue to see daily increases in our positive cases, the numbers are manageable and are an indication that we have put in place effective measures. I strongly encourage the residents and local businesses to continue their efforts. It is working.”
The Health Commissioner continued to provide that “In recognition of the positive impact of our local businesses, we would like to acknowledge businesses that are taking an extra abundance of steps to protect their customers. ACHD has created the ‘Business Hero of the Week’ designation.” After many on-site visits to local establishments, the ACHD has selected Masterminds Escape Room and Game Library located at 33 W. Main Street in Ashland, OH for the week of August 17th and as our first Business Hero.
Mr. Ben Garrett, the owner, shared “that Masterminds socially distances seating in our game library as well as disinfects and sanitizes after each table has left, as well as ensuring to sanitize all kitchen equipment regularly. Our games are handled by staff and then either disinfected or quarantine for 72 hours after use. All staff adhere to the mask wearing requirement.” He adds that, “Escape rooms are spread out to allow cleaning in between groups and we are taking private bookings only.” When asked if a particular staff member should be recognized for their above and beyond efforts, Mr. Garrett shared that, “Everyone in general. We all work hard to keep our place safe and fun:”
Additional information about COVID-19 is available at the ODH website, www.coronavirus.ohio.gov. ODH also staffs a Call Center 7 days a week from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. The number is 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).