COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohio officials reported Wednesday 7,790 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total case count in Ohio to 644,822.
The number of people who have died with COVID-19 increased by 109 on Wednesday, to 8,361 deaths in all.
Cases are below the 21-day rolling average of 9,852. Deaths are above the 21-day average of 80.
The state follows the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s definition of a “case,” which includes those diagnosed through genetic PCR or antigen tests, or people diagnosed in a clinical setting -- experiencing symptoms who are linked to a confirmed COVID-19 case, among other criteria.
Other data released Wednesday:
-7.35 million PCR and molecular coronavirus tests have been performed in Ohio.
-126 fewer people were hospitalized on Wednesday, according to data provided by the Ohio Hospital Association. The 4,694 hospital beds used by COVID-19 patients on Wednesday will be revised in coming days, as more complete admissions and discharge data is collected.
-The percent of PCR and molecular tests that have come back positive was 15.3 on Monday, the most recent day for a positivity rate. The rate for the past seven-days was 14%.
Another death of a state employee
Robert Burns, who worked at the Indian River Juvenile Correctional Facility in Massillon for more than 28 years, died Thursday with the coronavirus. Burns, a youth specialist, tested positive for COVID-19 on Nov. 29, DeWine said.
Burns leaves behind a wife, Pam, children and a grandson. He was involved with his community-- participating in the Masons, scouting and events with the Stark County Sheriff’s Office.
Other coverage:
Heading into Christmas, Gov. Mike DeWine to give a coronavirus update: Watch live
Ohio behind on vaccine shipments, but officials say new doses on the way
Ohio lawmakers send Gov. Mike DeWine a criminal justice reform measure, as broader bill dies
7,678 new coronavirus cases in Ohio; 130 more deaths: Tuesday update
6,733 coronavirus vaccine doses administered in Ohio – with 312 going to out-of-state residents