COLUMBUS, Ohio — Gov. Mike DeWine announced Thursday “Stay Safe Ohio protocols” would go into effect for the next 21 days, which includes an extension of the 10 p.m. curfew through Jan. 2.

What You Need To Know

  • The state is releasing new protocols Thursday as the coronavirus pandemic worsens

  • The protocols say to avoid travel, gatherings, and mingling with other households

  • Twelve doctors spoke at a briefing to announce the protocols
​​Under the new protocols, the governor said Ohioans should not eat or drink with members outside their household.

Ohio reported 11,783 cases Thursday, the fourth highest day so far. Ohio reported 111 deaths Thursday and 452 hospitalizations, numbers that suggest the surge on hospitals will continue.

The governor announced he was extending the state’s curfew order until Jan. 2 to avoid a “COVID Tsunami” for hospitals.

It was not immediately clear what parts of the new protocols would be enforced. 

Ohio was under a 10 p.m. curfew for the past 21 days that just expired Wednesday. The protocols say to stay at home, “keep interactions short and stay apart,” work from home, and celebrate small.

The governors said he is concerned about Christmas, and sees the next three weeks as the most crucial stage of the pandemic.

The governor had hoped case numbers would improve during the curfew, but three weeks later the state is setting coronavirus records.

Hospitalizations have increased nine-fold and cases have increased more than eleven-fold this fall.

The governor's briefing featured 12 doctors to discuss the messages behind the protocols.

“We've asked for their help and guidance throughout the last week,” DeWine said. “I've asked for their help and guidance coming up with a protocol for all Ohioans to follow.”

There were 5,110 COVID-19 patients receiving care in hospitals Thursday, and 1,194 patients were receiving care in ICUs.

“These are steps that are sensible steps that we can all follow and that will allow us to still live our lives,” DeWine said.

Dr. Dan Breece Chief Medical Officer, Memorial Health System, delivered the message that officials are asking Ohioans not to eat or drink with members outside their household. It was unclear how the new protocols would effect dining and bars.