Lorain County virus cases continue to rise.

County deaths up to 66, including 2 in past week

Lorain County is continuing to see increases in novel coronavirus cases as the state of Ohio debates on how to grapple with the pandemic.

As of 2 p.m., July 16, Lorain County reported 1,128 confirmed cases and an additional 142 probable cases for 1,240 total, according to data from Lorain County Public Health.

Lorain County reported 18 new cases July 16 and a total of 58 over the previous two days.

Since July 9, Lorain County has seen a total of 152 new confirmed cases of COVID-19.

County Public Health said 66 individuals have died, with two deaths occurring over the past week.

According to the county’s seven-day moving average, Lorain County is averaging 16 new cases per day – an increase from around 12 cases daily a week earlier.

Lorain County remains at a Level 3 red alert along with 18 other counties, and residents are required to wear masks when out in public.

In a statewide address July 15, Gov. Mike DeWine did not issue any new health orders, but he implored Ohioans to take appropriate measures to stop the spread.

“Today, more Ohioans are getting sick than at any previous point in this pandemic,” DeWine said.

“We are sliding down a very dangerous path, with our once flattened-curve starting to sharpen and spike.

“This is a worrisome, disturbing reversal of our progress — a jarring reminder of just how quickly our fate can change.”

Commending Ohioans for their efforts in slowing down the spread, the governor said the state is at a critical juncture and urged people to come together for the greater good.

“I am calling on all Ohioans to once again unite,” he said. “We must work together, support each other and help each other through this challenging time.

“I’ve seen you do this. I know you can do this.”