State shows 669 new cases

Another day brought another 600-plus new cases of COVID-19.

In its update today, Indiana State Department of Health reported 669 new cases of COVID-19. It marks the eighth consecutive day that the state’s new case total has topped the 600 mark.

Indiana has seen its new case totals rise recently, hitting a high of 963 Monday. The state has averaged 678 new cases over the last eight days. Its average over the previous eight days was 489.

Indiana now has 17,835 confirmed cases of the disease caused by coronavirus.

The state also reported 44 new deaths from COVID-19, marking nine straight days that 25 or more deaths have been reported. The state’s total is now 1,007.

Ohio reported 724 new cases today, the state's highest mark since April 21. It now has a total of 18,027 cases.

Also today, Ohio reported 38 new deaths for a total of 975.

Jay County Health Department reported its 15th confirmed case Wednesday. Other area county case totals are as follows: Delaware (176), Darke (76), Mercer (21), Randolph (15), Blackford (eight), Adams (seven) and Wells (five).

Today's report comes as Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb has said he will announce plans for “re-opening” the state at his press briefing at 2:30 p.m. Friday. The current stay-at-home order is set to expire at midnight Friday.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett and Dr. Virginia Caine of Marion County Public Health Department announced plans to day to extend Marion County’s stay-at-home restrictions through May 15, the Indianapolis Star reported.

“It’s clear from talking to state leaders and community stakeholders that the challenges we face here in Indianapolis are unique — a city filled with large venues, densely populated neighborhoods, and active business centers. To ensure that we see continued progress in our fight against this virus, we must recommit to our social distancing efforts even as we plan for the future,” Hogsett said in a statement. “I appreciate Governor Holcomb’s partnership as he and his team continue to address the diverse needs of Hoosier communities.”

Coronavirus is spread through respiratory droplets from sneezes and coughs, close personal contact and touching something with the virus on it and then touching the mouth, nose or eyes before washing hands. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines encourage frequent hand washing, avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands, avoiding close contact with those who are sick, and covering coughs and sneezes with a facial tissue and wearing a mask in public.

For most, COVID-19 symptoms are mild to moderate, including fever, cough and shortness of breath that clear up in two to three weeks. Other symptoms may include chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat and loss of taste or smell. Older adults and those with pre-existing health problems are susceptible to more severe illnesses.