Despite changes, stay at home order will remain in effect, Dayton mayor says

Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley. STAFF FILE

Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley. STAFF FILE

The changes Gov. Mike DeWine will make to start reopening the economy are a direct result of the steps Ohioans took to help flatten the virus curve, officials said Monday during a press conference on the coronavirus situation.

“What our community and the whole state of ours, particularly our community, has done through this time has been really, really remarkable,” Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley said.

>> Coronavirus: Not wearing face masks would be ‘negligent,’ DeWine says

Because of those actions, the governor is able to make some modifications May 1 to allow some sectors to return to work, with restrictions.

“I think the most important thing that needs to be said about this new order is really very little has changed,” Whaley said.

In some cases, the rules are more stringent, such as the requirement beginning May 12 that all employees and customers must wear face masks indoors.

>> Here’s what DeWine’s plan to reopen Ohio says, what businesses must do

“The stay at home order is still in place,” she said.

Sarah Hackenbracht, president and CEO of the Greater Dayton Area Hospital Association said beginning May 1 hospitals will return to some of their normal operations with elective procedures not requiring an overnight stay.

“I want to emphasize our hospitals remain safe. They have been safe,” Hackenbracht said.

>> Complete coronavirus coverage

For those whose procedure has been on hold, she said physician’s offices, hospitals or surgery centers will contact patients about rescheduling.

There may be new policies in place for patients, who may be asked screening questions, have their temperature taken and may be asked to wear a mask in the hospital, she said.

“Do not delay emergency care, or scheduling an elective procedure out of fear,” she said.

>> Here’s what area people are saying about Ohio reopening

Enforcement of the new guidelines will remain up to the employer to make sure they are complying with the governor’s order, Health Commissioner Jeff Cooper of Public Health - Dayton & Montgomery County.

Businesses must make sure that employees and customers who enter the stores are wearing face masks, maintaining social distancing and all other parts of the order, he said.

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