Ross County Health Department officials are reporting that nearly a third of the counties population has received at least one COVID-19 vaccination. The number though below the statewide average of 36%. Locally 25,0217 residents have received at least one dose, that totals 32%. The largest number to receive a shot is the 80+ age group, with 72% having taken at least the first shot. The county remains in the "red" on the state's Public Health Alert System, or "level three", meaning there is a high incidence of COVID-19 cases reported. 6,760 case were reported in the week ending April 15th, with 147 deaths reported and 548 hospitalizations. When Ohio reaches 50 cases per 100,000 people for two weeks, all health orders will be lifted. Last week, the rate was 185.8 per 100,000, which is down from past weeks. However, state officials are warning the virus is more contagious because of virus variants.