As businesses are forced to close and limit their operations to stop the spread of the coronavirus, unemployment continues to rise in Muskingum County.

An additional 1,082 unemployment claims were reported by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Thursday, bringing the total claims to over 5,500 individuals, representing an almost 25 percent increase from the previous week.

Business activity across the state has moved to a halt as consumer discretionary spending falls week over week, forcing many small to large businesses to close their doors or reduce hours in an attempt to rein in expenses.

The State of Ohio continues to promote its job board for businesses to post openings, however, many potential employees are fearful of contracting the virus or find themselves making more money on unemployment than they would if they accepted many of the job currently available.