COLUMBUS — As the death toll from COVID-19 in the state passed a grim milestone, Gov. Mike DeWine is appealing to Ohioans to stick together as the state slowly reopens.
The Ohio Department of Health call center is open 7 days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. to answer questions regarding COVID-19 at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634).
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Ohio Department of Health coronavirus website
Ohio COVID-19 Dashboard displays the most recent preliminary data
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
UPDATE: The state on Monday reported 20,474 confirmed and probable cases and 1,056 deaths from COVID-19.
At his daily coronavirus briefing Friday, DeWine underscored his message that it’s possible to restart the economy and keep people safe at the same time.
DeWine says his message is embedded in the name of the new order, called the “Stay Safe Ohio Order,” extending the state shutdown until May 29.
Read the new “Stay Safe Ohio” order
DeWine also acknowledged the criticism he’s receiving, with some saying he’s going too slow and others too fast.
He announced the formation of two advisory groups consisting of representatives of business associations and legislative leaders, which will plan the best ways to reopen dine-in restaurants and personal service businesses, such hair salons, day spas, nail salons, barber shops, massage therapy locations, and tanning facilities while balancing the need to protect the health of employees and customers.
DeWine said his intention to reopen those businesses “fairly quickly” but did not specify a range of dates when he expected that to happen.
Under DeWine’s “Responsible RestartOhio” plan and the new order, some medical and dental procedures and practices resumed Friday. Manufacturing, distribution, construction and general office operations reopen Monday.
Retail stores will be allowed to reopen May 12 but the order allows them to see customers by appointment or serve them via curbside pickup or delivery.
Beginning Tuesday, the Central Ohio Transit Authority will resume early morning service to six high-ridership lines as more people return to work.
Lines 1, 2, 8, 10, 22 and CMAX will begin morning service at 5:00 a.m. while all other lines will begin at 7:00 a.m.
Service ends at 9:00 p.m. seven days a week.