A view through an electron microscope of the first COVID-19 case confirmed in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

A view through an electron microscope of the first COVID-19 case confirmed in the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

This blog will be updated frequently as new information emerges. Scroll down for general information about COVID-19.

Live Updates:

March 17, 7:07 p.m.

Oh, yeah — it’s St. Patrick’s Day. Celebrate responsibly (and from a safe distance).


March 17, 6:59 p.m.

It’s still unclear if or when in-person voting in Ohio’s primary election will take place. The Ohio Democratic Party and a woman from Reynoldsburg are suing Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose in the Ohio Supreme Court over yesterday’s move to cancel in-person voting. They argue that LaRose has no power under state law to set the election date and that state lawmakers must do that instead. That could happen next week.

Here’s where things stand.

March 17, 6 p.m.

Some Cincinnati Recreation Centers will be used to shelter those experiencing homelessness who are exhibiting possible COVID-19 symptoms. Hospitals and other healthcare providers will refer patients to the center. Read more here.

March 17, 3:20 p.m.

Macy’s today announced it was closing all of its stores nationwide beginning today at closing time through at least March 31. Macy’s area stores include ones at Kenwood Town Center and Tri-County Mall.

March 17, 3:15 p.m.

Here are some useful links to our recent coronavirus-related coverage:

Ohio Has Extended Unemployment Benefits for Those Impacted by the Coronavirus — Here is How to Apply

Here’s a List of Greater Cincinnati Restaurants Offering Carry-Out, Delivery and Curbside Pick-Up

The Party Source is Offering Online Ordering and Curbside Pick-Up

Over-the-Rhine and Findlay Market Eateries Offering Carry-Out and/or Delivery

Jerry’s Jug House in Newport is Offering Green Beer for Carry-Out

Rescheduled Dates for Greater Cincinnati Concerts Postponed Due to Coronavirus Concerns, Mandates

March 17, 10:50 a.m.

UC Health has announced the opening of a drive-thru COVID-19 screening and testing clinic on its Clifton Campus. They’ll be doing the screenings/tests outside the front entrance of the West Professional Building at 3120 Burnet Ave.

“Testing will be available by appointment only for all members of the community, including UC Health employees. In order to be seen in the drive-thru clinic, patients must have one of the following:

  • A scheduled appointment made by their physician’s office.

  • A self-made appointment made by calling 513-41VIRUS (513-418-4787).”

The clinic can service up to four people per vehicle; all must have appointments. Currently, they are only accepting appointments for those 14 and up.

UC Health says results will likely come back within 72 hours.

“Once fully functional, the clinic will be open 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m., seven days a week,” UC Health says in a release.

More details here.

March 17, 9:45 a.m.

Cincinnati Fire & EMS has shared some updates for those calling 911. If possible, those calling with medical emergencies are being asked to meet responders at the door if physically possible. For all emergency calls that require a response, the caller will be asked if anyone at the scene has a “respiratory illness.”

March 17, 9 a.m.

In a press release yesterday, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services said it has provided employers expecting layoffs with a code (2000180) to share with employees to help expedite unemployment benefits. It also giving employers information on how to apply for unemployment to share.

“This measure will expedite the processing of benefits for individuals who lose their jobs as a result of the pandemic and allow them to receive their first benefit payments as quickly as possible,” ODJFS Director Kimberly Hall says in the release. “We want to make sure all employers are aware of this number so that we can provide seamless service when processing claims.”

Ohioans can apply for unemployment online at any time via unemployment.ohio.gov. You can also file by phone at 877-644-6562 or TTY at 888-642-8203, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

March 17, 8 a.m.

Kentucky’s primary election has also been postponed, moving from May 19 to June 23.


MARCH 16 UPDATES

March 16, 11:35 p.m.

A Franklin County judge earlier today rejected Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s suggestion that Ohio’s primary election, scheduled for Tuesday, be postponed until June 2 over concerns about the spread of pandemic coronavirus COVID-19.

After it appeared the polls would still open Tuesday as scheduled, Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton ordered them closed tomorrow to “avoid the imminent threat with a high probability of widespread exposure to COVID-19 with a significant risk of substantial harm to a large number of people.”

DeWine shared Acton’s three-page order on social media.


“While the polls will be closed tomorrow, Secretary of State @FrankLaRose will seek a remedy through the courts to extend voting options so that every voter who wants to vote will be granted that opportunity,” DeWine tweeted.

March 16, 5 p.m

The Archdiocese of Cincinnati has announced that all Catholic Masses will be suspended through Easter Sunday. The decision was made by the Bishops of Ohio and the suspension extends to Masses throughout Ohio.

During the shut-down, the Archdiocese of Cincinnati will broadcast a live Mass each day on its website and Facebook page. “Daily Masses will be celebrated at 8 a.m. Mon.-Sat. and Sunday Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m.,” the Archdiocese announced on social media.

March 16, 4 p.m.

The 22nd-annual Flying Pig Marathon and it’s related events, originally slated to take place May 1-3, have been rescheduled for Oct. 9-11, 2020. Organizers have announced different ways people can still participate in the Flying Pig fun, including via a “virtual race.”

March 16, 3:40 p.m.

Gov. Mike DeWine says a group of older Ohioans will file a lawsuit in Franklin County today asking the courts to implement his suggestion to delay Ohio’s primary election and extend the period to vote absentee. In-person voting would be pushed back to June 2; absentee ballots would be accepted up until that day.

DeWine also issued an order closing gyms, fitness centers, recreation centers, bowling alleys, movie theaters and other venues.

More on the latest briefing.

March 16, 3:30 p.m.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine says that despite rumors, grocery stores will not be closing.


March 16, 2:55 p.m.

The Cincinnati Reds won’t be playing their first game of the season until at least May.

Major League Baseball has announced that the 2020 season will not begin April 9. The league previously suspended play for at least two weeks from the originally scheduled March 26 Opening Day.

MLB said in a statement that they were “following last night’s newly updated recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) restricting events of more than 50 people for the next eight weeks.” That would push the start of the baseball season into at least early May. More spring training time may be added prior to Opening Day.

“MLB will keep fans updated on decisions regarding plans for the 2020 schedule in the days and weeks ahead,” the statement said. “The Clubs remain committed to playing as many games as possible when the season begins.”

March 16, 2:27 p.m.

In a public briefing, city and county officials provided a variety of updates, including a joint emergency order requiring people to “maintain a minimum of six feet of physical distance from other persons at all times.” There are exceptions for “couples, members of the same family, caregivers, law enforcement, emergency responders, persons traveling with dependents and persons within a transportation vehicle.”


March 16, 12 p.m.

Indiana Gov. Eric J. Holcomb has announced restrictions in the state similar to those in Ohio and Kentucky. Indiana will follow CDC recommendations that there should be no in-person events with more than 50 people.

Most schools are closed in the state; a press release states that “the Department of Education is working with the remaining 16 school corporations to determine their next steps and needs.”

“Bars, nightclubs and restaurants are required to close to in-person patrons and may provide take-out and delivery services through the end of March,” the release continues.

Find more Indiana announcements here.

March 16, 11 a.m.

In a briefing today, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear ordered bars and restaurants (in-dining only; delivery/takeout is still OK) closed in the state. He also gave updates on the number of confirmed cases in the state as well as Kentucky’s first confirmed death from the virus.



MARCH 15 updates

March 15, 6:42 p.m.

We are also looking to share info on efforts to support local musicians and artists who are losing income due to the shut-downs. Let us know by emailing Mike Breen at mbreen@citybeat.com (for music) and Mackenzie Manley at mmanley@citybeat.com (for arts/culture).


March 15, 6:30 p.m.

Local restaurants: If you’re offering special carry-out or delivery options or discounts to help offset the impact of the current closure order, let us know so we can share it with our readers.

March 15, 4 p.m.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced today that his administration will order the closure of all bars and restaurants in the state at 9 p.m. tonight.

DeWine stressed that carryout and delivery would still be allowed, but that sitting and eating or drinking in establishments would be forbidden for the time being.

“We are literally at a crucial, crucial, crucial stage,” DeWine said today, stressing that the order was designed to save lives.

Read more here.

March 15, 3:45 p.m. 

Braxton Brewing Co. announced that they will be closing their brewery at 5 p.m. today.

“During this unprecedented situation, rest assured that we’ll be doing everything we can to take care of our team. In the meantime, while new information comes to us each day, we’ll be making decisions we feel are best for our community,” a press release from the brewery read. 

Braxton products will still be available at local grocers and retailers. 

March 15, 12:45 p.m.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine told NBC’s “Meet the Press” today that the state is considering an order that would close bars and restaurants as a way to address the spread of COVID-19.

“We’re certainly looking at that,” he said in response to a question from host Chuck Todd about that possibility.

Two more cases in Butler County and another two in Franklin County were confirmed today, The total number of confirmed cases in Ohio is now 37.

No closure order has been announced yet. Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder suggested a less-restrictive next step — perhaps reducing occupancy limits at bars and restaurants by 50 or 75 percent instead of outright closing them.

March 15, 12:30 p.m.

While some bars and clubs have canceled live music and many touring acts have postponed imminent tour dates, artists like Reverend Horton Heat and Cincinnati’s Bob Cushing are defiant that the shows must go on. Concert and club show updates here.

March 15, 12 p.m.

SPCA Cincinnati has announced it is closing effective immediately and will stay closed “most likely until March 31.”

March 15, 10 a.m.

This morning on CNN’s State of the Union, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine was asked if he thought it possible schools in the state would remain closed longer than the current mandated three-week period and through the end of the school year.

“Absolutely, absolutely,” DeWine answered, saying school superintendents in the state have been informed about that possibility. “It would not surprise me at all if schools did not open again this year.”

SATURDAY MARCH 14 UPDATES

March 14, 9:05 p.m.

All Cincinnati Public Schools will now be closed Monday. CPS previously announced all schools would be closed from Tuesday, March 17 through April 3. Earlier today they announced 11 schools in the district that would close Monday.

From the district website:

Out of an abundance of caution, Cincinnati Public Schools will close all schools on Monday, March 16, 2020. There are still no confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the district. Please visit the website at cps-k12.org for updates or for information about the meal program.

March 14, 5:38 p.m.

Eleven Cincinnati Public Schools will now be closed Monday, while the others will be closed beginning Tuesday.

Schools closed Monday: Academy of World Languages, Clark Montessori High School, Fairview-Clifton German Language School, Hyde Park School, Kilgour School, North Avondale Montessori, Oyler School, Parker Woods Montessori School, Rees E. Price Academy, Roberts Academy and Walnut Hills High School.

Get the latest CPS updates (including any more closings) here.

March 14, 5:30 p.m.

Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services has shared a hotline and more resources for anyone dealing with mental health issues related to current affairs.


They also recommend taking breaks from news, social media and other media coverage:


 March 14, 5:28 p.m.

The Newport Aquarium has also announced it will be closing starting Monday, March 16 with plans to reopen Saturday, March 28.

March 14, 4:57 p.m.

The Cincinnati Zoo is closing beginning tomorrow: “While there have been no known cases of exposure to COVID-19 at the Zoo, the health and safety of our staff, volunteers, guests, community and animals is our top priority.” Updates will be posted here.

March 14, 4:45 p.m.

There are 16 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Kentucky as of today, Gov. Andy Beshear says. All of those who have a confirmed case are expected to recover.

Beshear announced today that the state had enforced a mandatory quarantine for one person in Nelson County who tested positive for COVID-19 and did not-self-quarantine.

“It’s a step I had hoped we would never have to take,” he said.

Beshear said the state will ask hospitals to delay elective surgeries whenever possible and requestdaycare centers to draw up 72-hour plans in case they are ordered to close. 

March 14, 2 p.m.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said today that the state has confirmed 26 cases of COVID-19. Seven people with the virus have been hospitalized. There have been no deaths linked to the virus yet. The state is awaiting test results for 264 others who may have the virus.

There are no confirmed cases in Hamilton County yet. Confirmed case breakdown by county in Ohio as of today: two in Belmont, four in Butler, 11 in Cuyahoga, one in Franklin, one in Lorain, three in Stark, two in Summit and two in Trumbull.

March 13, 11:52 a.m.

Need some fresh air? From Cincinnati Parks:

March 13, 11:50 a.m.

Some info on resources in Kentucky:


March 13, 11:30 a.m.

CDC guidelines about social distancing have prompted some restaurants and bars in the area to close their doors while the public and health officials figure out how to navigate this pandemic. But many local and small businesses rely on a fine margin and have to stay open to support their employees and themselves. More here.

March 13, 11 a.m.

Cincinnati Public Schools has shared details on how students can receive meals during the school shutdown period.

Per the CPS website:

Meals will be served Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from March 17 through April 3. Find complete info here.


MARCH 13 UPDATES

March 13, 5:55 p.m.

Hamilton County Courts issued a statement saying that all jury trials are suspended for thirty days and that all civil and criminal matters will receive a thirty-day continuance unless they involve criminal arraignments for incarcerated defendants, stalking protection orders or restraining orders, search warrants or, at a judge’s discretion, other matters involving incarcerated defendants. The court will remain open, considering criminal and civil proceedings that do not require oral arguments and utilizing video and telephone hearings whenever possible.

March 13, 5:50 p.m.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced that the state had confirmed at least three, but possibly as many as five, new cases of COVID-19 in the state, bringing the total number of confirmed cases there to at least 14. Beshear hastened to add that there were likely many more undiagnosed cases throughout the state, however.

March 13, 4:42 p.m. 

The Cincinnati Shakespeare Company has canceled the remaining performances of Pride & Prejudice and the upcoming performances of Hamlet. “As you can imagine, we are devastated to close our doors for the time being,” the theatre said in a statement. “We are a community of artists, collaborating on projects onstage and off… While nothing can replace these in-person connections, we hope that you take comfort in the fact that we are working tirelessly to create new ways to connect with you as we all move forward together.”

They do not yet have a reopening date but have a COVID-19 closure fund to help support their “family of artists.” 

March 13, 4:30 p.m.

The University of Cincinnati announced that students will switch to distance learning after spring break and will not return to physical classrooms. Campus housing will also be closed, though the university has pledged to help students with “extenuating circumstances” find alternate arrangements.

March 13, 4 p.m.

The City of Covington announced that, while schools are closed, free meals will be available for students under 19 years old at Covington Independent Public Schools on weekdays from 11:30 a.m. to noon. More information in the embedded tweet below:

March 13, 3:40 p.m.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton announced today that there are 13 confirmed cases of coronavirus COVID-19 in Ohio at this point, including four identified by UC Health in West Chester. Another 159 people are being investigated as possibly having the virus.

Acton and DeWine both stressed, however, that there are likely many more cases that have gone undiagnosed and that the virus is almost certainly spreading across the state.

DeWine also announced that the state has received waivers from the United States Department of Agriculture to continue providing free and reduced lunch to low-income students during a three-week closure of Ohio schools related to the virus.

March 13, 3:30 p.m.

Duke Energy says it is suspending disconnections for unpaid bills, effective immediately. The move applies to all home and business accounts in several states, including Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana.

March 13, 2:50 p.m.

The Cincinnati Museum Center and The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, which had earlier said they’d remain open, have both decided to close to the public beginning tomorrow. The CMC and NURFC will also be closed through April 3, just like CAM, CAC and Taft Museum.

March 13, 2:30 p.m.

The Cincinnati Art Museum, Contemporary Arts Center and Taft Museum of Art have released a joint press release announcing that they will all be closing for three weeks — from today through April 3.

March 13, 2:15 p.m.

The international Record Store Day — originally slated for April 18 — has been moved to June 20. The celebration of independent record stores is celebrated annually by local shops like Everybody’s Records, Mole’s Records, Plaid Room Records and Shake It Records.


March 13, 1:16 p.m.

According to its website, the 20th Century Theater in Oakley is postponing concerts through April 1, including sold-out shows by Cal Scruby and Black Pumas, as well as the March 22 Bob Mould concert. The site says all postponed shows will “not be offering refunds until the new date is announced.”

March 13, 1:12 p.m.

Over-the-Rhine’s Know Theatre says it is suspending its current productions.

According to a press release, the theater is “working on ways we can continue to deliver the work of our community of artists to our audiences in a remote fashion – stay tuned as those developments roll out. But until then, if you already have tickets for an upcoming performance, you have a couple options: We can convert your ticket to an account credit for a future Know show (or) we can convert your ticket to a tax-deductible donation.”

March 13, 12:34 p.m. 

Krohn Conservatory announced it will be closed until further notice starting 5 p.m. Friday, March 13. This also means the 25th-annual butterfly show, Butterflies of Bali — slated to open March 21 — has been postponed. 

March 13, 12:20 p.m.

UC Health has confirmed four COVID-19 cases in Greater Cincinnati. The four patients were seen at UC Health’s West Chester Hospital and treated and released. No further details were given.


From UC Health’s press release about the four confirmed cases:

UC Health is Greater Cincinnati’s leader in emergency preparedness and has been preparing for COVID-19 for several weeks. We have been working with the CDC, the Cincinnati Health Department, EMS, police and fire to closely monitor developments related to COVID-19 and will continue to do so. An internal task force meets daily to discuss patient care, supplies, logistics, emergency management procedures and other necessary measures to ensure the health and safety of our patients, visitors and employees, and our community.

Our physicians, nurses, caregivers, and staff are continuing to take appropriate precautions to protect all patients and staff in accordance with U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) guidelines.

If someone is experiencing symptoms, such as fever, cough and shortness of breath and have experienced some exposure risk factor such as travel or close contact with another sick person, we ask that that person call their physician’s office, or the Ohio Department of Health at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634) before visiting an emergency room or a doctor’s office. This line is monitored 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST. As always, if someone requires a true emergency response, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department and upon arrival immediately advise that you believe you are experiencing symptoms before entering a crowded waiting area.

March 13, 11:39 a.m.

Tonight’s sold-out CAAMP concert at Covington, Kentucky’s Madison Theater has been postponed.

March 13, 11:37 a.m.

The Ludlow Garage has canceled weekend concerts by Melvin Seals and JGB, David Sanborn (which was sold out) and Kasim Sulton’s Utopia. Rescheduled dates are in the works. The restaurant at the venue is staying open normal hours.

March 13 11:33 a.m.

The Lloyd Library & Museum has closed through April 5 and canceled all programs through April 17. 

March 13, 9:26 a.m.

The Archdiocese of Cincinnati posted on its website that “Catholics in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati are dispensed from their Sunday Mass obligation through the weekend of March 28-29.” It says masses currently scheduled must dispense with traditions like holding hands during the Our Father prayers and exchanging the sign of peace. Parishioners will also not receive oral Holy Communion “on the tongue” or “from the chalice.” Also: “Holy water fonts in the church should be drained” and “Unconsecrated bread and wine for Mass should be kept out of public areas.”

March 13, 7:59 a.m.

Another smaller live music venue is canceling performances for at least several days. Caffè Vivace, a Jazz club/cafe in Walnut Hills, says there will be no shows through March 21. According to a press release, the cafe will also be closing each day at 6 p.m. “Though we do not meet the 100 person threshold for the assembly ban, we feel we still fall into a high-risk situation at night given the proximity of our seating,” the release states.

March 13, 7:55 a.m.

Another “stating the obvious,” but, per a press release: “The Cincinnati Rollergirls today announced that the team’s March 21 home opener at the Cintas Center at Xavier University has been canceled after the state of Ohio banned mass gatherings of 100 people or more to help stop the spread of coronavirus.” The team says the status of the rest of their home games this season is uncertain.

March 13, 7:30 a.m.

As of this morning, four Cincinnati Public Schools have been announced as closed: Academy of World Languages, Parker Woods Montessori, Roberts Academy and Walnut Hills High School. CPS announced yesterday all of its schools will cease in-person instruction beginning March 17 until at least April 3. 


MARCH 12 UPDATES

March 12, 9:54 p.m.

This afternoon it was announced that CityBeat Events’ Best of Cincinnati celebration on March 25 at The Phoenix has been postponed. Stay tuned for a new date. CityBeat‘s Best of Cincinnati magazine will still be on the streets and online March 25.

March 12, 9:17 p.m.

While Northern Kentucky music venues obviously aren’t beholden to Ohio’s “mass gatherings” prohibitions, as more and more touring acts are forced to cancel dates due to various restrictions across the country, it’s likely that several Newport and Covington concerts will be postponed or canceled completely.

As of this writing, Friday’s sold-out CAAMP show at Covington’s Madison Theater is still on, but the March 22 concert featuring progressive Bluegrass act Railroad Earth has been postponed. The band announced today that they’re canceling the last leg of their current tour: “With sincere regret and an abundance of caution, we’re choosing to postpone the last leg of Winter Tour, March 19-28. Please know this decision was not made lightly, and the health and wellbeing of our beloved Hobo family is of the utmost consideration.”

March 12, 9:11 p.m.

Friday’s concert with Indie Pop band of Montreal at Over-the-Rhine’s Woodward Theater has been canceled “due to the Governor’s ban on gatherings over 100 people.” They are working with the band on a rescheduled date but if they don’t have one by Monday “we will consider the event cancelled, and we will be issuing refunds at that time.”

March 12, 9 p.m.

Cincinnati Museum Center and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center are both remaining open but, in nearly identical press releases, they each say they are “taking additional steps to safeguard guests and staff and to maintain social distancing parameters.”

CMC is limiting guests to each of its museums to under 100 people. Additionally, the Museum Center says in the release that it has decided “to close the Robert D. Lindner OMNIMAX® Theater through April 15 and will likewise close its Birdly virtual reality experience. Additionally, CMC is removing high touchpoint items in the Duke Energy Children’s Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science and Cincinnati History Museum.”

March 12, 8 p.m.

Executives and doctors from five local hospital systems spoke today about their preparations for coming COVID-19 cases. Those include establishing stand-alone testing sites, keeping track of the roughly 1,000 extra hospital beds in the region, encouraging those with mild illness to avoid going to hospitals unless their symptoms worsen and communicating between hospitals about patient load. 

March 12, 6:48 p.m.

Heritage Bank Center announces its first cancelation (besides Cyclones games):


March 12, 6:30 p.m.

From the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra: “All Scheduled Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Pops, Vocal Arts Ensemble and May Festival Performances and Events are Cancelled through at least April 5, 2020.”

March 12, 6:17 p.m.

Some smaller live music venues might not fall under the state’s order to prohibit gatherings of 100 or more people, but The Mad Frog in Corryville has announced that, while it is open tonight, it will be closed this weekend. That means the anticipated show by young Blues singer/guitarist Christone “Kingfish” Ingram has been postponed.

March 12, 6:00 p.m.

The AA hockey league the Cincinnati Cyclones plays in has suspended its 2019-2020 season. The ECHL says it’s “for the safety of our Fans, Players and Employees.” The team’s final two regular-season home games at the Heritage Bank Center were scheduled for the first weekend in April. The Cyclones say they will make announcements regarding tickets soon.

March 12, 5:51 p.m.

Bogart’s has started announcing event cancelations/postponements on Twitter and Facebook.

March 12, 5:45 p.m.

4EG, which operates several bars, restaurants and nightclubs in Cincinnati — including The Righteous Room, Low Spark, Igby’s, The Sandbar and The Lackman — as well as establishments in Chicago, says their businesses are remaining open for now but they are monitoring the situation closely and stepping up their cleaning regimens.

March 12, 5:30 p.m.

Cincinnati Public Schools has announced it will cease in-person instruction beginning March 17 until April 3 per Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s orders. 

“I know this situation is stressful,” Superintendent Laura Mitchell said in a statement. “We recognize that this closure is a hardship for many of our families and I wanted to provide them with sufficient notification to make any adjustments.” 

The district is working to make sure students who receive free and reduced lunch will have continued access to that service during the closure. The district says it has been working on a contingency plan for weeks and that students will take home learning packets starting tomorrow. 

 March 12, 5:15 p.m.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear recommended all in-person K-12 instruction in the state halt for two weeks. Kentucky currently has eight confirmed cases of the virus.

March 12, 5 p.m.

“In an effort to minimize the spread of coronavirus,” all performances at Memorial Hall scheduled before Sunday, April 5 have been “suspended.”

March 12, 4:45 p.m.

According to a press release: “The Jeff Ruby Steaks race at Turfway Park will run as scheduled this Saturday, March 14. However, amid public health concerns regarding COVID-19, all remaining races of the track’s Winter/Spring Meet through March 28, including the Jeff Ruby Steaks race this Saturday, will be conducted spectator-free with only essential staff, horsemen, owners, limited friends and family and media in attendance.”

March 12, 4:30 p.m.

The NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournaments have been canceled, as well as all NCAA winter/spring sports tournaments.


March 12, 4:07 p.m.

All Taft Theatre events have been postponed through April 5. 

March 12, 3:48 p.m.

NOTE: We will continue to bring you updates on COVID-19-related developments, but with Gov. Mike DeWine’s order today prohibiting mass gatherings of 100 people or more, it’s safe to assume that every medium-to-large event in Cincinnati over the next several days will be postponed or canceled. And likely even smaller events. We suggest you call ahead if you’re unsure.

March 12, 3:44 p.m.

In one of the first in what is sure to be a barrage of concert postponements and cancelations, the Taft Theatre says tonight’s Whiskey Myers concert is postponed “in light of today’s order from Governor Dewine.”

March 12, 3:41 p.m.

All shows at the Ensemble Theatre have been suspended indefinitely. In an email, the theater asks patrons not to call the box office about ticket exchanges until they’re able to announce rescheduled dates: “All accounts with tickets to upcoming performances will be credited and ETC will be relaxing its exchange policies and waive all fees to find suitable solutions for our patrons.”

March 12, 3:38 p.m.

With Opening Day two weeks from today, MLB has announced that the 2020 season’s start will be delayed at least two weeks. With the governor’s earlier announcement prohibiting mass gatherings of more than 100 people, the Reds would have been unable to play in front of fans anyway.

March 12, 2:31 p.m.

In a press briefing, Gov. Mike DeWine announced an executive order prohibiting mass gatherings in Ohio with more than 100 people. He said it does not include things like school, religious gatherings, weddings and funerals.

DeWine said the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ohio has risen to 5, with 53 more people under investigation. That fifth case was discovered in Trumbull County.

DeWine also announced all K-12 schools in Ohio would close for three weeks starting Monday. In a tweet, the governor called the move “an extended spring break.”

March 12, 12:43 p.m.

More conference basketball tournaments are shutting down, including the MAC tournament in Cleveland, which yesterday hosted games without fans. That tournament (in which the Miami Redhawks were slated to play tonight at 6:30 p.m.) is now canceled. The Atlantic 10 tournament (featuring the Dayton Flyers) is also canceled. The Big East tournament is not canceled; it’s currently underway at Madison Square Garden. But the Xavier Musketeers were eliminated from the tournament last night with a loss to DePaul. As noted, the AAC tournament is also not happening, so no Bearcats basketball tomorrow afternoon.

March 12, 12:30 p.m.

The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County will today ask patrons not to return borrowed items or bring in donations, according to an email to elected officials. The library is waiving late fees during this time. PLCHC is also canceling all programing, classes and use of public meeting rooms. Snack service and homework help will continue for now, but toys will be removed from the children’s areas of library locations. All of these suspensions are effective until at least April 3, at which time the library will reassess the situation. Other library events — including a groundbreaking ceremony for the Price Hill Library — have been postponed.

March 12, 12:13 p.m.

The Art Academy of Cincinnati has announced that they will cancel on-campus classes and move to remote learning “until further notice.” The college has extended its spring break to March 22, as opposed to March 15. 

“In response to the governor’s request, I have gathered the leadership team as well as met with the academic management team,” said Joe Girandola, president of Art Academy, in a statement. “We have reviewed and discussed updated policies following the confirmation of three COVID-19 cases within the state of Ohio.”

March 12, 12:04 p.m.

The American Athletic Conference college basketball tournament in Forth Worth, Texas that was scheduled to begin today has been canceled, along with the Big Ten and SEC tournaments. The University of Cincinnati Bearcats were scheduled to play in the tournament Friday at 1 p.m.

March 12, 11:54 a.m.

Cincinnati’s large riverfront arena the Heritage Bank Center has issued a statement saying all performances are still going forward as scheduled, but they are monitoring the situation and awaiting instruction from state and health officials. The venue has several events coming up in the next few weeks, including Disney on Ice and a Monster Truck rally. 

March 12, 11:50 a.m.

Major League Soccer has announced the suspension of its season, meaning FC Cincinnati’s home opener Saturday at Nippert Stadium is off.

March 12, 10 a.m.

Hamilton County Commission today is expected to vote at its 1 p.m. meeting to declare a state of emergency in the county, a move that will allow the county to get federal reimbursement, buy supplies without competitive bidding and set up a central information center as a home base for emergency responders. The commission will also hear updates from the Hamilton County Emergency Management Agency, Hamilton County Public Health and the Hamilton County Board of Elections.

March 12, 6 a.m.

This Saturday’s Saint Patrick’s Day parade downtown has been canceled due to health concerns. It follows the cancelations of Saint Patrick’s Day parades in other cities, including the ones in Cleveland and New York City.

MARCH 11 UPDATES

March 11, 9:35

The Findlay Market Opening Day Parade scheduled for Thursday, March 26 has been canceled according to the event’s website:

“Our 101st Anniversary Parade has been cancelled/postponed due to the Corona Virus issue.”

March 11, 8:20 p.m.

In light of Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear state of emergency declaration, Boone County Schools, which includes elementary, middle and high schools, says it will be “implementing NTI (Non-Traditional Instruction).”

“Starting Monday March 16th up to Monday April 20th instruction will be delivered for all students during the day while at home,” a statement reads. “However, if the State of Emergency is lifted before April 20th we may resume classes.”

Students receiving free or reduced meals will be able to get breakfast and lunch as take-out from the school cafeteria.

March 11, 5:50 p.m.

The Clifton, Middletown and Harrison campuses of Cincinnati State (info here) have announced plans for alternatives to in-person instruction.

March 11, 5:19 p.m.

Northern Kentucky University, which is currently on Spring Break, has released a statement from President Ashish Vaidya similar to those of Xavier, UC and Miami. NKU, along with extending their break to Saturday, March 21, will shift to “alternative instruction beginning March 23, moving from face-to-face classes to online delivery.” Residence halls will remain open to students who planned to return to campus on March 15.

March 11, 4:55 p.m.

If you were hoping to watch your favorite local team play in the NCAA tournament next week, you’ll have to do it by watching the games on TV. The NCAA announced that all men’s and women’s tournament games will be played without fans, CBS Sports reports.

March 11, 4:37 p.m.

The Cincinnati International Wine Festival has announced that it has canceled portions of its annual event as a preventative measure in response to COVID-19 updates.

March 11, 4 p.m.

The latest on Mayor John Cranley and Gov. Mike DeWine‘s press briefings can be found here.

March 11, 2:20 p.m.

At DeWine’s press briefing, Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton announces that there has been a fourth case of COVID-19, this one a man in his 50s in Stark County, which contains Canton, Ohio. Dr. Acton said this fourth case is “proof of community spread” — the man hadn’t travel and had no known direct contact with anyone with COVID-19.

DeWine promised a state order to cancel large events was coming. He also said an order to close K-12 schools could come in the future, but would not be issued just yet.

The governor also outlined new protocols for nursing home visitations. Residents will be limited to one visitor a day, who must sign a log and have their temperatures taken before entering.

March 11, 1:30 p.m.

Mayor John Cranley has declared a state of emergency in Cincinnati “based on the critical need to allow the City of Cincinnati to take appropriate action to protect against the spread of COVID19 in Cincinnati and to protect vulnerable populations in Cincinnati and the Greater Cincinnati region from contracting COVID19.”

That state of emergency allows the city to more easily cancel public events, restrict travel and regulate the sale of gasoline and firearms on a temporary basis.

Councilmember Chris Seelbach tweeted the mayor’s statement and said “Public events need to cancel or they will likely be cancelled.”

March 11, 12:54 p.m.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine is holding a press conference at 2 p.m. where he is expected to issue new orders for Ohio related to what the World Health Organization is now calling a pandemic. Reports quoted DeWine as saying, “People will say, ‘Oh, my God'” when they hear the new orders.

March 11, 12:50 p.m.

Today, Cincinnati City Councilmember P.G. Sittenfeld is set to announce his pick to replace Tamaya Dennard, who resigned from council March 2 after she was arraigned on federal bribery and extortion charges. Sittenfeld is making the announcement (expected to be Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney) at 4:30 p.m. at the Hirsch Recreation Center in Avondale, but he’s asking that members of the public not to attend.

March 11, 9:50 a.m.

Butler, Clermont and Warren counties have joined Hamilton Country in relocating polling locations that were in senior living facilities.

Find Butler County’s new polling locations here, Warren County’s here and Clermont County’s here.

MARCH 10 UPDATES

March 10, 4:15 p.m.

Miami University has followed Ohio State’s lead and is “suspending all face-to-face instruction in lectures, discussion sections, seminars and other similar classroom settings.” Classes will be delivered remotely through “at least” April 12. “Residence halls, dining halls and all campus services will remain open,” the school said in a press release.

In a campus announcement, Miami said it made the decision “in light of the Governor’s announcement today and the advice of the Ohio Department of Health to limit large gatherings.” (Read more here.)

March 10, 5 p.m.

Both U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders and former Vice President Joe Biden canceled campaign rallies in Cleveland scheduled for tonight over concerns about COVID-19. The two are competing for the Democratic Party’s nod to take on President Donald Trump in the November election.

March 10, 5:15 p.m.This morning it was announced that the Johnny Mathis concert at the Aronoff Center slated for this Saturday was being rescheduled for Aug. 15. According to a press release, the concert had to be canceled  “due to Mr. Mathis’ specific travel and health advisements.” Mathis is 84.

Cincinnati Arts Association said that those with tickets to the concert will be sent new tickets; those unable to attend must contact the Aronoff Center Ticket Office for refund info before April 3 at 513-621-2787 or by email at ticketing@cincinnatiarts.org. 

March 10, 5:25 p.m. Cincinnati’s Ensemble Theatre sent out an email to patrons regarding COVID-19 that said no scheduled performances or programs have been canceled.

In the email, the theater said “the safety and security of our audiences, performers, and staff is our highest priority” and laid out some preventative measures they were taking:

“We have increased the frequency of cleaning and disinfecting in all public and backstage areas beyond the standard daily schedule as well as the frequency of sanitizing chairs, tables, door handles, elevator buttons, and other high-density areas. Alcohol-based sanitizer dispensers for public use are available in the lobby. We remain vigilant, and we are prepared to make decisions based on current recommendations, as well as in response to changing conditions.”

March 10, 5:30 p.m.The Ohio House Democrats sent out a press release with preventative measures, directing people to www.coronavirus.ohio.gov for questions/concerns. They also shared a video with Leader Emilia Sykes sharing “simple actions” people can take to “stay healthy and safe.”

March 10, 5:40 p.m.
The
University of Cincinnati is the latest Ohio university to follow Mike DeWine’s suggestion to go remote. Beginning March 14,
UC will move to “remote instruction” and “suspend face-to-face instruction, lectures, discussion session, seminars and other similar classroom settings.”

Residence halls are staying open. A statement from the school said, “While completing classes remotely, students may choose to return to their permanent place of residence or return to campus where appropriate social distancing and enhanced preventative public health and hygiene measures will be actively encouraged. Students should make the choice that is best for their own personal situation.”

March 10, 6 p.m.

Invest in Neighborhoods’ Neighborhood Summit, an annual gathering of community volunteers, city officials, neighborhood groups and others, has been postponed indefinitely. 

“After discussion with our partners, sponsors, and vendors, and the impact of several announced corporate and Ohio public policies, it was decided that proceeding with an abundance of caution was the appropriate action with respect to the public safety concerns of our community,” a statement from Invest in Neighborhoods reads. 

March 10, 6:15 p.m.

Academy of World Languages, a Cincinnati Public School, will be closed again tomorrow after a staff member there began voluntarily isolation.

“Academy of World Languages (AWL) will be closed for a second day tomorrow, March 11, as a precautionary measure,” a statement from the district reads. “An AWL staff member notified school officials late Monday of a voluntary self-quarantine due to possible exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19). At this time, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the school district or Cincinnati. The AWL facilities staff will continue to clean high-touch surfaces, such as door knobs and handles. District officials are continuing to maintain communication with local and state health departments. Additional information and resources about COVID-19 are posted on the CPS website.”

March 10, 6:52 p.m.

The 2020 Mid-American Conference (MAC) men’s and women’s basketball tournaments will continue at Cleveland’s Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse this week but the games won’t be open to fans.

“This decision was made in consultation and guidance with local governmental and public health and medical officials to limit large gatherings due to the coronavirus (COVID-19),” a statement from MAC officials said. “Only credentialed institutional personnel, student-athlete family members, credentialed media, television and radio crews, and official team party members will be permitted for attendance for the tournaments.”

Miami University’s men’s team won their first-round game in the MAC tournament yesterday. The Redhawks next play Thursday afternoon against the Northern Illinois Huskies… sans fans. Refunds are being offered.

Related: The NCAA tournament’s “First Four” play-in games are scheduled to be held at the University of Dayton’s arena next week (March 17-18). Other tournament games are to be played in Cleveland. No decisions on the games have been announced.

March 10, 7:55 p.m.
Xavier University has released a statement almost identical to the ones issued today by Miami and UC. The school is moving to a “remote learning format for all courses.” A statement on Xavier’s website from president Michael Graham states that they’re planning on regular classes resuming after Easter on April 14.

“Our goal is to protect the health and well-being of our students, faculty, staff, and the broader community while maintaining our commitment to student success and academic progress,” Graham said.

WHAT IS COVID-19?

Late last year, a previously unidentified variant of coronavirus began spreading around Wuhan, China. Since that time, it has popped up across the globe — including here in Ohio. Here’s what you need to know about COVID-19 — and what local officials are doing about it.

The main takeaway thus far: large gatherings, including sporting events and university classes, are being canceled, and health experts are urging the public to wash their hands frequently and avoid touching their faces. 

Currently, officials in Ohio have confirmed five cases of the virus, though that number is likely to climb. Three of those cases were in Cuyahoga County; another discovered March 11 was in Stark County.

That pesron, a 53-year-old man, did not travel abroad or come in contact with another person who had a confirmed case of the virus. That’s the first case in Ohio of what experts call “community spread.”

Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton called that “a game changer.”

A fifth case was discovered March 12 in Trumbull County.

The state is investigating 53 other possible cases. ODH maintains a website that it will update with further tested and confirmed cases. Indiana has seen 12 cases so far, while Kentucky has eight. None in the region have yet resulted in death.

Some background: Coronaviruses are a broad category of virus that cause the common cold, among other illnesses. COVID-19 is what scientists call a new, or “novel” form of the virus — one that hasn’t been encountered before and one which epidemiologists do not yet know how to combat. 

The virus sometimes causes mild symptoms, or no symptoms at all. But it can also cause very acute respiratory illness that can require hospitalization and even lead to death — mostly among people who are over the age of 60 or who have chronic illness or compromised immune systems.

International health officials say the global mortality rate for COVID-19 is currently hovering around 3.4 percent. But that rate includes the very high proportion of early deaths reported in Wuhan, China — where the virus first made an appearance and where the high number of cases overwhelmed health facilities. Across the rest of China, the death rate is much lower — about .7 percent.

What are City of Cincinnati and Hamilton County officials doing?

Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley March 11 declared a state of emergency in Cincinnati, a move he says will speed up emergency procedures. 

“The declaration of emergency is necessary to allow the City of Cincinnati to take appropriate action to protect against the spread of COVID-19 and to protect vulnerable populations in Cincinnati and the Greater Cincinnati region from contracting COVID-19,” Cranley’s declaration reads.

The city of Cincinnati March 10 held a summit of social service providers, city departments, health workers, education officials and others to provide updates on the city’s preparations. Those include making sure city employees know to take sick leave if they fall ill, assuring six feet of space between employees in the work place, establishing clear lines of communication between various officials so that response can be coordinated and a number of other steps. 

Cincinnati Health Commissioner Melba Moore said no one in the area has tested positive so far. Moore and other officials say that testing will pick up now that tests are more readily available. She also said the health department is working with local hospitals to potentially set up a drive-thru testing site, possibly in a Cincinnati health center, as has been done in other areas.

Moore — and other officials — stressed that they believed it was not a matter of if the virus comes to Cincinnati, but when. Moore encouraged employers to grant sick leave to employees and suggested all Cincinnatians think about contingencies. 

“You need to have a plan,” she said. “What will you do as it relates to any of your family members getting sick?”

Mayor John Cranley said city officials are working with local hospitals, social service groups and others to make sure there is adequate capacity to address the virus when it reaches Cincinnati.

Cincinnati City Council’s Budget and Finance Committee March 10 voted to appropriate $1 million for supplies for city workers including masks and other personal protective gear that could help stop transmission of the virus. The committee also approved a motion by Councilmember Chris Seelbach that would open at least one restroom in every Cincinnati park so city residents can wash their hands. 

Officials have tried to walk a tightrope, stressing the seriousness of the situation while at the same time putting the threat in perspective.

UC Health’s Dr. Dustin J. Calhoun told attendees at the March 10 summit that 80 percent of people infected will experience a mild cold. The majority who experience more severe symptoms will also recover. At this early stage, pregnant women and children seem to be less vulnerable, Calhoun said.

Those most at risk are the elderly — mortality rates for those above 70 shoot up to 8 percent, while those under 40 have an estimated mortality rate of about .2 percent.

Hamilton County Health Department officials updated county commissioners on countywide preparations March 3, before any cases had been confirmed in Ohio.

Will the virus go away when flu season ends?

Health officials have said it’s unclear if COVID-19 is a seasonal virus — but don’t hold your breath.

Many variants of coronavirus are not seasonal, and even if COVID-19 is somewhat sensitive to warmer temperatures, that doesn’t mean its spread will be slowed significantly.

“We can’t rely on that,” UC Health’s Calhoun told attendees at the city’s March 10 summit.

That’s in line with what national experts have said. Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health has a pretty good breakdown on why that is here. 

This article appears in Mar 4-17, 2020.

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