SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico health officials on Thursday issued orders that could limit nonessential surgeries and prepare for rationing of other medial services as the coronavirus pandemic strains resources and personnel at hospitals and intensive care centers.

The state Department of Health issued the two new public health orders amid a sustained surge in coronavirus infections and deaths across much of the state.

One order allows hospitals and acute-care facilities to limit surgeries and the second order changes liability standards for emergency medical providers as the state prepares for possible triage procedures that might limit care to some individuals.

“Normally, providers have an ethical and legal obligation to a do whatever is in the best interest of each of their patients,” the order on rationing stated. “Under crisis standards of care, providers instead have an ethical and legal obligation to do what is best for everyone in the state, not just what is best for their individual patients.”

The orders go into effect Dec. 11 and will last until at least Jan. 4.

“New Mexico’s health care system, and everyone working within it, will continue to work toward the best possible outcome for our state," acting state Health Secretary Billy Jimenez said in a statement.

New Mexico on Wednesday reported an additional newly confirmed 1,759 COVID-19 cases, bringing the statewide total to nearly 113,000 since the pandemic began. An additional 34 deaths also were reported.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.