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Coronavirus cases in Florida surge to over 19,300 and death toll jumps to 452, health officials say

Published  April 12, 2020 11:07am EDT
Coronavirus
FOX 35 Orlando
article

ORLANDO, Fla. - The latest numbers from state health officials show that there are now over 19,347 cases of coronavirus in Florida, with a death toll of 452.

The Florida Department of Health published the new numbers on Sunday morning. They specifically stated that there are 19,347 positive cases of COVID-19 statewide. 18,794 of those cases are Florida residents. The others are non-Florida residents who tested positive and are isolated in the state.

They also published the Florida death toll as 452.

There have been a reported 2,633 hospitalizations statewide because of coronavirus.

Below is an interactive Florida Department of Health dashboard, showing a county-by-county breakdown of positive COVID-19 cases statewide.

If you are having trouble seeing the map or using it (especially on a mobile device), click here to load in a new window.

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Florida remains under a "stay-at-home" order and it will continue until April 30th. Residents must stay at home except to complete essential errands and activities. Essential businesses may also stay open but must enforce social distancing.

Florida after one week of stay-at-home order

Florida has been under a statewide stay-at-home order has been effect for a week, but authorities say residents must continue to follow social distancing.

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.

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Coronavirus testing site at Orange County Convention Center to relax requirements

The change will come on Monday.

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus, so avoiding exposure is crucial. The Florida Department of Health 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 is now urging that all Americans in areas hit hardest by the novel coronavirus wear some type of facial covering while out in public.

MORE NEWS: Osceola County to require residents wear face masks in public spaces starting Monday

Masks required when in public in Osceola County starting Monday

Those who do not comply could face a fine or even jail time.

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.

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.

Video animation shows how cough spreads virus

Researchers have created an animation to show how a cough can spread throughout a grocery store.

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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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