Ohio confirms another case of coronavirus in Stark County

As of 2 p.m. Wednesday, the Ohio Department of Health has confirmed another case of coronavirus in the state.

This new case brings the total number of confirmed people to have the virus to four.

A 53-year-old male from Stark County is the newest patient testing positive for coronavirus.

In a press conference, Dr. Amy Acton, with the Ohio Department of Health said the patient did not travel outside the county or have any known interaction with those who have knowingly had the coronavirus.

Dr. Acton said this data confirms the first case of "community spread" of COVID-19.

Community spread means the virus was spread easily and sustainably within a community without direct contact with infected individuals.

"Once two cases of community spread are confirmed, it usually means one percent of the population is infected," said Dr. Acton.

The patient is currently quarantined at Mercy Hospital in Stark County.

The previous three patients were from Cuyahoga County.

According to the governor, an order involving mass gatherings is expected to be put in place.

"Some organizations need an order to prevent mass gatherings," said DeWine.

Gov. DeWine also emphasized the elderly population is at higher risk of contracting the virus.

Nursing homes should expect to see efforts being put in place to limit the number of visitors and track visitors through sign-in sheets.

There are currently 24 other people under investigation for coronavirus in Ohio.