On Sunday, Ohio governor Mike DeWine announced that starting at 11:59 p.m. Monday, the Ohio stay-at-home order will be effective. This health order will last until April 6th.

However, this end date is open to change, as health officials will reassess the situation based on new information concerning COVID-19 as it comes in.

“Every piece of evidence shows we are at an absolutely critical time in this war and what we do now will make all the difference in the world. What we do now will slow this invader … so all the professionals have time to treat the casualties,” DeWine said.

This order prohibits Ohio citizens from leaving their houses except for special circumstances and closes all non-essential businesses.

Such exceptions include getting groceries and other necessary items such as health and safety supplies, leaving the house for essential activities and outdoor activities.

Essential businesses that will be allowed to remain open include food banks, the United States Postal Service, banks, food and beverage manufacturing, grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, media organizations, laundromats, hardware stores and other home service industries and transportation agencies. Additionally, non-essential businesses are permitted to stay open as long as their employees are working from home.

DeWine urges the businesses that will remain open to comply to health practices such as social distancing and hand washing.

DeWine reminded Ohio citizens not to despair during Sunday’s press conference.

“I am convinced we can do this. I had someone yesterday say to me, ‘Mike we can do this. We’re strong. We certainly can do this. We’re Buckeyes.’ I would say to that, that’s absolutely correct. … We can do this.”