Nearly 42,000 Ohioans have been tested for COVID-19. The number of confirmed cases continues to rise, while the number of deaths now has reached triple digits at 102, including 25 in the Mahoning Valley.

As of Gov. Mike DeWine’s 2 p.m. update Saturday, there are 3,739 confirmed cases, up from 3,312 Friday.

“We are flattening the curve, but we can’t let up,” said Dr. Amy Acton, Ohio Department of Health director.

There are now 13 deaths in Mahoning County, up from 12 on Friday. Trumbull County is still at seven, and Columbiana County remains at five deaths.

“We are seeing deaths in some who are younger and without pre-existing conditions,” Acton said, adding there is much more to learn about this virus.

There are 250 total cases in Mahoning County, up from 203; 90 cases in Trumbull County, up from 72; and 36 cases in Columbiana County, up from 28 on Friday.

Statewide, 1,006 people have been hospitalized, and 326 patients are in intensive care. This virus covers all ages and seems to hit both genders equally, according to the Ohio Department of Health.

To continue to slow the spread of COVID-19, Acton and the CDC ask that people wear masks when they leave their homes. Acton added that these masks are not a substitute for social distancing and should be used in addition to the precautions already in place. Acton applauds those who have created their own masks and urges people to use them even though they are not the N95 masks.

“It’s not perfect — it’s about 80 percent effective. But it can make a difference,” Acton said. “I need you to wear both the cape and the mask now. I need you to understand that we are fighting for lives right now. Please don your cape, and when you’re out and about, don your mask.”

DeWine also announced that he signed an order allowing Ohioans to access telehealth services without first having had a face-to-face appointment, which was previously required.

DeWine doesn’t plan on having a 2 p.m. update today unless there is breaking news.

bshiller@tribtoday.com