DeWine sets guidelines to relax statewide curfew as hospitalizations drop

Key data is showing a reduction in active hospitalizations in the state, which has prompted Gov. Mike DeWine to revisit the statewide curfew that has been in place since before the holiday season.

It has been six straight days that the state has had below 3,500 active hospitalizations due to COVID-19. The Governor said if the state can continue that trend for one more consecutive day the state will ease the curfew, moving it from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. back to 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. for at least two weeks.

>> Key data shows COVID-19 situation improving in Ohio

If the hospitalizations across the state drop below 3,000 hospitalizations for seven consecutive days, the curfew will be moved back to 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. for at least two weeks.

The curfew will be eliminated if the state can drop below 2,500 hospitalizations for seven consecutive days.

Today, the Ohio Hospital Association reported 2,964 active COVID-19 hospitalizations in the state.

The curfew currently runs from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., but does not apply to those going to and from work, those who have an emergency, or those who need medical care. It also is not designed to stop anyone from getting groceries, going to grocery or getting a carry-out or drive-thru meal.

Cox Media Group