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Coronavirus cases in Florida jump over 1,100, death toll increases to 14, health officials say

Updated  March 23, 2020 11:32am EDT
Coronavirus
FOX 35 Orlando
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ORLANDO, Fla. - The Florida Department of Health released its latest numbers on coronavirus in the state on Monday morning, showing a jump to over 1,100 positive cases and another death.

As of 11 a.m. on Monday, there are 1,171 positive cases of coronavirus in Florida. 1,096 of those are Florida residents, while the 75 others are non-Florida residents who tested positive and are being isolated in the state.

Positive Central Florida COVID-19 cases include:

  • Alachua County: 37 positive cases of COVID-19.
  • Brevard County: Seven positive cases of COVID-19.
  • Flagler County: Three positive cases of COVID-19.
  • Lake County: Seven positive cases of COVID-19.
  • Marion County: Four positive cases of COVID-19.
  • Orange County: 45 positive cases of COVID-19.
  • Osceola County: 24 positive cases of COVID-19. 
  • Polk County: 13 positive case of COVID-19.
  • Seminole County: 20 positive cases of COVID-19.
  • Sumter County: Eight positive case of COVID-19.
  • Volusia County: 15 positive cases of COVID-19.

There are reportedly 1,185 people currently being monitored for coronavirus.

Another coronavirus death has been reported as well, bringing the state's death toll to 14.

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Coronavirus can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth, including when an individual coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land on objects and surfaces. Others can then contract the virus by touching these objects or surfaces, then their eyes, nose, or mouth. 

As stated before, symptoms of the coronavirus include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. They may show in as few as two days or as many as 14 days following exposure, the Florida Department of Health says. Most people recover from COVID-19 without special treatment but the elderly and those with underlying medical problems are more likely to develop serious illness. 

AdventHealth temporarily halting hospital visitation

There are exceptions that will allow some to visit patients.

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There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus, so avoiding exposure is crucial. The department advises the following:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick and avoiding contact with persons in poor health.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then disposing of the tissue.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe. 

The CDC said that they do not recommend that healthy people wear facemasks. They should only be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people taking care of someone in close settings.

If you display coronavirus symptoms, you should contact a local health organization and make them aware of your condition prior to arrival while also following specific instructions or guidelines they may have. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 and let them know if you have been infected or believe that you may be.

Orange County coronavirus testing site to open

Only those who meet a strict criteria will be tested.

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If you are infected, a medical professional or another authority will likely advise that you remain isolated while sick. This includes staying at home and not going into public places or large events.

Please visit the Department’s dedicated COVID-19 webpage for information and guidance regarding COVID-19 in Florida. For any other questions related to COVID-19 in Florida, please contact the Department’s dedicated COVID-19 Call Center by calling 1-(866) 779-6121. The Call Center is available 24 hours a day. Inquiries may also be emailed to COVID-19@flhealth.gov.

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