Cleveland St. Patrick's Day Parade Is On, Despite COVID-19 Fears

CLEVELAND — The Cleveland St. Patrick's Day parade will go as planned, on March 17, despite growing fear of the new coronavirus. Organizers said they are working with health officials to determine how to safely move forward.

"The health and safety of our community is of the utmost importance to the United Irish Societies of Greater Cleveland and to the City of Cleveland. We are closely monitoring the developing coronavirus, COVID-19, situation in Cuyahoga County," organizers said in a statement on the parade website. "We are working and communicating with elected and public health officials and will follow their recommendations as to whether outdoor public gatherings in the City of Cleveland should be curtailed. Currently there is no such restriction."

Gov. Mike DeWine announced Monday that Ohio had its first three confirmed cases of new coronavirus, called COVID-19. All three infected individuals live in Cuyahoga County, though officials have not specified which cities they reside in.

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Health officials said residents should follow the same health and safety tips they practice during flu season to halt the spread of coronavirus.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs.

Last week, Ohio officials barred fans from attending the Arnold Sports Festival in Columbus. DeWine said the presence of international competitors and spectators, along with the promise of free movement throughout the city, made the presence of fans untenable.