The Tuscarawas County Health Department is urging everyone to spread cheer – not germs – over the holidays.

Director of promotion and community relations Jennifer Demuth says virus season appears to be ramping up according to data from the Ohio Department of Health and CDC, which shows increases in whooping cough, flu, RSV, pneumonia, and covid-19.

The health department encourages frequent and thorough hand washing, ventilating indoor spaces, and avoiding holiday gatherings if you’re feeling under the weather.

The agency is also offering free infection prevention bags – limited to one per person – while supplies last.

The bags and additional Covid tests can be picked up inside the lobby of the health department at 897 east Iron Avenue in Dover. They’re open today from 8 until 4 and tomorrow from 8 to noon.

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