At his press briefing on Thursday, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said that he is updating the state's order and guidance regarding mass gatherings.
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In an effort to provide clarity, DeWine said that he is separating Ohio's 10-person mass gathering guidance back into a separate order. While the order largely remains the same, it now offers clear recommendations to remind Ohioans when and how safe gatherings can done.
According to DeWine, the state's guidance is as follows:
- Gatherings at a household or family residence should be limited to close friends/family. These gatherings are recommended to be 10 visitors or less.
- Residents in red or purple risk level counties should limit hosting or attending gatherings of any size.
- The use of masks and physical distancing is encouraged at all times.
- Use take out or outdoor dining. Use indoor dining only when strict physical distancing can be maintained.
- Take extra precautions at bars or clubs, where use of masks typically is inconsistent. The consumption of alcohol can also lead to less physical distancing.
- Protect anyone with serious medical conditions at home by using physical distancing, the use of masks and high levels of hygiene.
- High-risk individuals should also take additional precautions to limit how many people they interact with.
- Interact with as few people as possible and make sure that they are taking appropriate coronavirus precautions.
Additionally on Thursday, DeWine announced that he is calling on the Ohio Liquor Control Commission to call a meeting to consider enacting an emergency rule related to liquor sales amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The rule would require restaurants to end liquor sales at 10 p.m. each night and for the consumption of any alcohol to end by 11 p.m.