Ahead of St. Patrick’s Day, DeWine said the move was prompted by concerns about packed bars and restaurants. DeWine said the order was needed to force social distancing, the practice of avoiding large crowds and restricting contact among individuals to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

An end date has not been announced, though restaurants are permitted to offer carryout and delivery service.

“It is very drastic action but we are taking these steps to save lives,” DeWine said. “People will die if we do not take these actions. I don’t know any other way of saying it.”

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