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This Just In- Walmart Has Cameras And You Are Being Watched

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This Just In- Walmart Has Cameras And You Are Being Watched

Release by Winter Haven Police Department

We have somebody else that SAW the cameras, knows the cameras are watching, and yet… (and really clear images if we do say so ourselves!)
The pair you see in the beginning did the ole “put the lower priced item on the bottom” skip scan shenanigans.

They were approached by associates and ultimately ran out to the car you see at the end. The woman holding the dog in the still image walked in with them, but isn’t seen with them in the store. It’s thought she went to get the car for the, well, getaway.
Recognize them? Call Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477).

 

Video here:

Polk Soil & Water Conservation Meeting CANCELLED

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Polk Soil & Water Conservation Meeting CANCELLED

March 16, 2020:

Please be informed that the Polk County Soil & Water Conservation District Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 17th 2020 at 4:00 p.m. has been canceled until further notice.

Thank you,

Joe Garrison, Chairman

—————————————————

 

Tuesday, March 17, 2020 at 4:00 pm

Polk State Lakeland Campus – Room LTB 1124

3425 Winter Lake Road

Lakeland, Florida 33803

  1. Call to order
  2. Pledge of Allegiance
  3. Roll Call
  4. Approval of January 21st, 2020 Meeting Minutes
  5. Chair Report – Joe Garrison
  6. Vice Chair Report – Kyle Carlton
  7. Secretary/Treasurer report – Daniel Lanier
  8. Public Relations Report
  9. Old Business
  10. New Business
    1. Funding of Soil Testing Kits
    2. E & O Insurance Renewal
  11. Adjourn

March 16, 2020 UPDATE: ~137 positive cases in Florida Residents and 18 positive cases in non-Florida residents~

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March 16, 2020 UPDATE: ~137 positive cases in Florida Residents and 18 positive cases in non-Florida residents~

Florida Department of Health Launches New COVID-19 Case Dashboard

~137 positive cases in Florida Residents and 18 positive cases in non-Florida residents~

TALLAHASSEE — Today, in the state’s ongoing efforts to provide transparency and clarity regarding COVID-19, the Florida Department of Health announced the launch of a new COVID-19 Case Dashboard. To keep Florida residents and visitors safe, informed and aware about the status of the virus, this dashboard will be updated twice daily.

As of noon, there are 155 total** Florida cases:

  • This includes 19 additional positive COVID-19 cases (14 Florida residents and 5 non-Florida residents) were reported to the Florida Department of Health.
  • There are currently 137 positive cases in Florida Residents and 18 positive cases in non-Florida residents.

Florida recently partnered with private laboratories around the state to expand COVID-19 laboratory testing capacity. This partnership will increase the number of tests conducted each day and ensure Floridians receive the critical health information they need in a timely manner.

Expansion to private laboratories changes the COVID-19 testing landscape in Florida. Private laboratories will run tests as they receive swab samples from practitioners. Testing and reporting times will vary among commercial and DOH laboratories. Demographic information may be updated during investigations.

For more detail on Florida resident cases, please visit the live DOH Dashboard here.

* Florida residents that are diagnosed with COVID-19 and isolated out of state are not reflected on the Florida map.

**Total cases overview includes positive cases in Florida residents and non-Florida residents tested in Florida.

More Information on COVID-19

To find the most up-to-date information and guidance on COVID-19, please visit the Department of Health’s dedicated COVID-19 webpage. For information and advisories from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), please visit the CDC COVID-19 website. For more information about current travel advisories issued by the U.S. Department of State, please visit the travel advisory website.

For any other questions related to COVID-19 in Florida, please contact the Department’s dedicated COVID-19 Call Center by calling (866) 779-6121. The Call Center is available 24 hours per day. Inquiries may also be emailed to [email protected].

About the Florida Department of Health

The Florida Department of Health, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

 

Polk County Schools Pickup Locations For Breakfast & Lunch Starting Tomorrow

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Polk County Schools Pickup Locations For Breakfast & Lunch Starting Tomorrow

Press Release Polk County Schools

SCHOOL LUNCH PICKUP LOCATIONS

During the unexpected closure, children 18 years and under will continue to receive both their school breakfast and lunch Tuesday through Friday (March 17-20) from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at specific sites serving as food distribution locations. Distribution will be similar to lunch distribution during the summer.

A law enforcement officer (SRO/SRD) and school safety guardian will be assigned to each school that has been identified as a meal distribution site. Their presence will facilitate the safe and orderly preparation and distribution of meals during school closures. Law enforcement and school safety guardians will wear their standard uniform and will be available to assist the public with any law enforcement issues or concerns related to school safety.

The sites listed below will be open Tuesday through Friday (March 17-20) for meal distribution. Children must be present to receive a meal and the meal must be taken off site. Schools will have a drive-up process in place, so no one will have to exit their vehicles. For those who do not have a vehicle, a walk-up section will be created.

Meal Sites
School Locations
Hours of Operation: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Alta Vista Elementary
Alturas Elementary
Bartow Middle
Ben Hill Griffin
Caldwell Elementary
Chain of Lakes Elementary
Churchwell Elementary
Citrus Ridge Elementary
Crystal Lake Elementary
Dundee Elementary
Eagle Lake Elementary

Eastside Elementary
Gibbsons Street Pre-K Center
Highlands Grove Elementary
Horizons Elementary
Inwood Elementary
Lake Alfred Elementary
Laurel Elementary
Lewis Elementary
Loughman Oaks Elementary
McLaughlin Middle
Padgett Elementary

Palmetto Elementary
Polk City Elementary
Purcell Elementary
R. Bruce Wagner Elementary
Rochelle School of the Arts
Scott Lake Elementary
Sleepy Hill Middle
Southwest Middle
Spessard Holland Elementary
Tenoroc High
Wahneta Elementary

Satellite Locations:

11:00 a.m.
3409 Kelly Ct,
Mullberry, FL 33860

11:45 a.m.
4230 FL Highway 60
Mullberry, FL 33860

12:15 p.m.
19 Regel Loop
Mullberry, FL 33860

Polk County Citrus Connection Grocery Trips Added To Condensed Door-to-Door/Paratransit Service

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Polk County Citrus Connection Grocery Trips Added To Condensed Door-to-Door/Paratransit Service

Citrus Connection Press Release

Grocery trips added to condensed

Door-to-Door/Paratransit service

Lakeland — March 16, 2020 – Citrus Connection is updating its Door-to-Door/Paratransit trip criteria to include medical, medical-related and grocery trips only. The limitation to those three types of trips will best assist in combatting the possible spread of Covid-19.

Medical, medical-related and grocery trips can be scheduled for any day this week. Effective the week of March 23, grocery trips will only be available on Tuesdays. The trip limitations will remain in place until April 15.

Anyone wishing to schedule medical, medical-related and grocery trips can continue to do so by calling the Regional Mobility Call Center at (863) 534-5500. Citrus Connection will honor already scheduled non-medical trips.

New York Governor Slams “Lack of Federal Direction” Partners With Connecticut & New Jersey In Closing Casino’s, Gym’s, Movie Theaters & Limiting Restaurant Hours & Capacity

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New York Governor Slams “Lack of Federal Direction” Partners With Connecticut & New Jersey In Closing Casino’s, Gym’s, Movie Theaters & Limiting Restaurant Hours & Capacity

State New York Press Release

New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont today announced a regional approach to combating the novel coronavirus.

The three States will limit crowd capacity for recreational and social gatherings to 50 people – effective by 8 PM tonight

Restaurants and bars will close for on premise service and move to take-out and delivery only effective 8 PM tonight

Movie theaters, gyms and casinos will temporarily close effective 8 PM tonight

Uniform approach to social distancing will slow spread of COVID-19 throughout the tri-state area

Amid a lack of federal direction and nationwide standards, New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont today announced a regional approach to combating the novel coronavirus – or COVID-19 – throughout the tri-state area.

These uniform standards will limit crowd capacity for social and recreational gatherings to 50 people, effective 8 PM tonight. This follows updated guidance that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued yesterday recommending the cancellation or postponement of in-person events consisting of 50 people or more.

The three governors also announced restaurants and bars will close for on premise service and move to take-out and delivery services only. These establishments will be provided a waiver for carry-out alcohol. These measures will take effect at 8 PM tonight.

Finally, the three governors said they will temporarily close movie theaters, gyms and casinos, effective at 8 PM tonight.

This uniform approach to social distancing is meant to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19.

“Our primary goal right now is to slow the spread of this virus so that the wave of new infections doesn’t crash our healthcare system, and everyone agrees social distancing is the best way to do that,” Governor Cuomo said. “This is not a war that can be won alone, which is why New York is partnering with our neighboring states to implement a uniform standard that not only keeps our people safe but also prevents ‘state shopping’ where residents of one state travel to another and vice versa. I have called on the federal government to implement nationwide protocols but in their absence we are taking this on ourselves.”

Governor Murphy said, “With all we are seeing in our state – and across our nation and around the world – the time for us to take our strongest, and most direct, actions to date to slow the spread of coronavirus is now. I’ve said many times over the past several days that, in our state, we are going to get through this as one New Jersey family. But if we’re all in this together, we must work with our neighboring states to act together. The work against coronavirus isn’t just up to some of us, it’s up to all of us.”

Governor Lamont said, “The only way to effectively fight the spread of COVID-19 is by working together as states. We have shared interests, and a patchwork of closures and restrictions is not the best way forward. I know that because of this collaboration, we will save lives.”

Florida Extends Drivers License Renewal’s

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Florida Extends Drivers License Renewal’s

Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Press Release

In response to COVID-19, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) is actively monitoring information from Centers for Disease Control and is working closely with the Florida Department of Health and other state partners. We are committed to keeping our customers, team members, and partners informed, equipped, and safe.

At the direction of Governor Ron DeSantis, Executive Director Terry L. Rhodes has issued an Emergency Order extending all Florida driver licenses, commercial driver licenses and identification cards that will expire in the next 30 days. All Florida driver licenses, commercial driving licenses and identification cards set to expire in the next 30 days will be granted a 30-day extension beyond their current expiration date.

The Executive Order authorizes the following:

  • Extends the effective period of all driver licenses and identification cards that will expire between March 16, 2020, and April 15, 2020, for 30 days.
  • Waives the delinquent renewal fees during the extension period for these driver licenses and identification cards.

In Addition, FLHSMV is encouraging Floridians who are able to complete their driver license or motor vehicle transactions online to do so, rather than in person at a driver license office. Floridians can use GoRenew.com to driver license transactions, motor vehicle registration and more.

Blue Devils Baseball Win Lasts Week’s Games

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Blue Devils Baseball Win Lasts Week’s Games

Winter Haven Blue Devils Baseball:

Devils win ugly Tuesday night 5-3 but a win is a win. Mason Jantamaso had 2 doubles, Roberto Odor and Jorge Martinez had 2 hits. Cayden Kok and Mark Jarrett pitched well again. Dylan Deleo pitched well to get the save. They were back in action Friday at Lake Region.

Varsity Devils do enough to beat Lake Region 2-1 Friday night. Owen Boyce, Mason Jantamaso, Roberto Odor all had hits and Randy Gonzalez came up with a big double.
Jose Pena, Mark Jarrett, Jeremy Weaver all pitched clean innings and freshman Dylan Deleo got the save in the 7th.
Hope to see more of this team in April. They are really fun to be around.

30 Yr Old Woman Killed In Bartow Crash When Her Vehicle Is Struck By Teenage Driver

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30 Yr Old Woman Killed In Bartow Crash When Her Vehicle Is Struck By Teenage Driver

Bartow Police Department Press Release

On 03/15/2020 at about 11:03am, a traffic crash was reported at the intersection of US Hwy 98 N at Lyle Parkway. Units responded to the area, and located Jennifer Vargas, 30 years of age, unresponsive in the driver seat of a 2020 Ford Fusion. Two passengers in the vehicle received non-life threatening injuries.

The investigation revealed the Ford Fusion was south bound on US Hwy 98 N in the inside lane of travel. A 2018 Chevrolet Silverado being driven by a 16 year old driver was north bound on US Hwy 98 N and attempting a west bound turn onto Lyle Parkway. The driver of the Chevrolet Silverado slowed, but continued across US Hwy 98 N and into the driver side of the Ford Fusion. Efforts to revive Vargas were unsuccessful, and she was pronounce deceased at Bartow Regional Medical Center. Family members have been notified.

The roadway was closed for approximately four hours, however has been reopened at this time.

The roadway was closed for approximately four hours, however has been reopened at this time.

March 15 Early Morning Update – 39 New Cases Of COVID 19 – No Reported Polk County Cases

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March 15 Early Morning Update – 39 New Cases Of COVID 19 – No Reported Polk County Cases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 15, 2020

Contact: Joint Information Center on COVID-19 for the State of Florida
(850) 815-4940, [email protected]

Florida Department of Health Announces New Positive COVID-19 Cases in Florida

TALLAHASSEE — The Florida Department of Health has announced 39 new positive cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Earlier today, the Florida Department of Health confirmed the death of a 77-year old male in Lee County who had previously tested positive for COVID-19. Yesterday, Governor Ron DeSantis sent a letter to Health and Human Services requesting the release of 61 Florida residents from Georgia, many of whom are elderly, who were previously aboard the Grand Princess voyage outside of California.

To keep Florida residents and visitors safe and aware about the status of the virus, the Department is issuing regular updates as information becomes available.

New Positive Cases

A 55-year old female in Clay County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 79-year old female from Connecticut has tested positive for COVID-19 in Baker County. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. The epidemiological investigation is ongoing.
A 72-year old female in Lee County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 60-year old female in Citrus County has tested positive for COVID-10. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A male in Duval County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. Further details to follow.
A 64-year old female in St. Johns County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 71-year old male in Volusia County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 48-year old female in Orange County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 70-year old male in Clay County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A male in Duval County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. Further details to follow.
A 47-year old male in Hillsborough County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a domestic travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 67-year old male in Pasco County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a domestic travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 32-year old female in Hillsborough County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a domestic travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 17-year old male from Cuba has tested positive in Hillsborough County. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. The epidemiological investigation is ongoing.
A male in Duval County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. Further details to follow.
A 28-year old male in Miami-Dade County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 58-year old female in Miami-Dade County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 25-year old female in Miami-Dade County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 62-year old male in Miami-Dade County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 74-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 48-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 19-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 19-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 65-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 20-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 42-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 52-year old male in Miami-Dade County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 65-year old female from New York has tested positive for COVID-19 in Alachua County. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. The epidemiological investigation is ongoing.
A 63-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 19-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 30-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 60-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 20-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 19-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 66-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 83-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 20-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 76-year old male in Collier County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 28-year old male in Collier County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
COVID-19 Cases

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*Definition of travel-related: A known history of exposure to COVID-19 associated with travel outside of Florida.

International Travel

U.S. Department of State – Global Level 3 Health Advisory

The U.S. Department of State advises U.S. citizens to reconsider travel abroad due to the global impact of COVID-19. Many areas throughout the world are now experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks and taking action that may limit traveler mobility, including quarantines and border restrictions. Even countries, jurisdictions, or areas where cases have not been reported may restrict travel without notice.

CDC Guidelines

The Florida Department of Health is advising all individuals who have traveled internationally to follow CDC guidelines, summarized below:

Level 3 Travel Advisory: CDC recommends 14-day self-isolation and social distancing upon return to the United States. Social distancing includes avoiding going out in public and close personal interactions. If you become symptomatic, immediately self-isolate and contact your County Health Department or health care provider.
Level 2 Travel Advisory and Cruises: Travelers should monitor their health and limit interactions with others for 14 days after returning to the United States. If you become symptomatic, immediately self-isolate and they should call ahead to a health care professional or their county health department before seeking treatment.
According to CDC, a cruise ship is defined as a passenger vessel involving the movement of large numbers of people in closed and semi-closed settings.
For more information regarding current CDC travel advisories related to COVID-19, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html
A person that experiences a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as fever, cough or shortness of breath, within 14 days after travel from China, Italy, Iran, South Korea, Japan and any other destination under CDC travel advisory should call ahead to their health care provider or local County Health Department (CHD) and mention their recent travel or close contact, unless they are experiencing an emergency.

If a person has had close contact with someone showing these symptoms who has recently traveled from areas or been in contact with a person with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19, they should call ahead to a health care professional and the County Health Department. The health care professional will work with the Department to determine if the person should be tested for COVID-19.

Nile Cruise Advisory

The Florida Department of Health is advising all individuals who traveled to Egypt for a cruise or tour on the Nile River in February or March 2020 to self-isolate for 14 days following their date of return to the United States, and if ill, immediately contact their CHD or health care provider. Several passengers in the United States recently developed symptoms and have been confirmed to be infected with COVID-19, including over 10 positive cases in Florida.

Port Everglades Advisory

The Department, through an extensive epidemiological investigation, has identified multiple, positive COVID-19 cases that are connected and associated with Port Everglades in Broward County, Florida.

The Department recommends all individuals experiencing symptoms who have recently traveled through Port Everglades to immediately contact their CHD or health care provider and self-isolate for 14 Days.
The Department also recommends employees of Metro Cruise Services at Port Everglades with any association to these cases self-isolate at home.
The Department is working to connect with all employees at Metro Cruise Services who may have come into contact with the three individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 to provide the employees with the appropriate guidance and monitoring.
The Department is working in close consultation with the CDC on this investigation.
CDC recommends that individuals with recent travel history on a cruise monitor their health for 14 days and, if they develop symptoms, immediately self-isolate and contact their CHD or health care provider.
COVID-19 Public Website and Call Center

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 [email protected].

Actions the State of Florida has taken on COVID-19:

Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-52 declaring a State of Emergency for COVID-19.
Governor Ron DeSantis directed the Florida Division of Emergency Management to activate to Level II to coordinate the state’s response to COVID-19.
Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-51directing the State Surgeon General to declare a Public Health Emergency.
State Surgeon General Dr. Scott Rivkees declared a Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 in Florida.
Established an Incident Management Team to coordinate response operations.
Activated a dedicated incident command post for on-site response activities.
Conducted public health and health care stakeholder conference calls to provide statewide updates on the current outbreak situation, response actions and guidance for pandemic planning. Over five hundred participants joined these calls.
Participated with the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) on statewide conference calls with nursing homes, assisted living facilities and hospitals.
Established a public call center for questions regarding COVID-19.
Developed and distributed an updated COVID-19 presentation to CHDs for use at community meetings.
Implemented protocols for investigation, surveillance and monitoring for COVID-19 to rapidly detect and contain cases.
Established mechanisms for ongoing monitoring and coordination with the CDC regarding epidemiological activities.
Distributed CDC Interim Guidance for public health personnel evaluating Persons Under Investigation (PUIs) and asymptomatic close contacts of confirmed cases at their home or non-home residential settings to CHDs.
Distributed the updated Clinician Screening Tool for identifying PUIs for COVID-19 and a health care provider letter regarding Enhanced Surveillance and Preparedness for COVID-19 to associations, licensed providers, Health Care Coalitions and CHDs.
Implemented testing at all three State Public Health Laboratories.
Distributed updated CDC guidance for schools to CHDs and the Department of Education.
Distributed updated Laboratory Guidance regarding implementation of testing at State Public Health Laboratories.
The Florida Department of Education in partnership with FLVS is training an additional 10,000 teachers statewide on the Virtual Teacher Training for COVID-19. Superintendents who are interested in offering their teachers the Virtual Teacher Training for COVID-19 should work with their County Virtual Principals to provide a list of teachers to FLVS through: https://www.flvs.net/FLVSTeacherTraining.
Governor DeSantis directed the Florida Division of Emergency Management and the Agency for Health Care Administration to take action to restrict access to vulnerable populations for those who may have been exposed to COVID-19. The Governor also directed the Florida Department of Corrections to suspend visitation at state prisons for 30 days.
Governor DeSantis requested that Health and Human Services send home the 61 Floridians that were previously aboard the Grand Princess cruise line, home from isolation from Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia.
Governor DeSantis has directed the Department of Health to hire additional epidemiologists from university health programs to help with workload.
Governor DeSantis has directed the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) to extend all existing nursing home and ALF licenses for 90 days to remove distraction from patient care.
Governor DeSantis directed Director Moskowitz to expand his emergency order and prohibit all visitation to nursing homes, assisted living facilities, adult family-care homes, long-term care facilities and adult group homes to all visitors for the next 30 days.
Governor DeSantis directed the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to suspend drivers’ license renewal requirements for 30 days.
Governor DeSantis directed all agencies to suspend for 30 days licensing and registration renewal requirements for existing processional licenses (e.g. realtors).
Governor DeSantis has recommended that local authorities strongly consider canceling mass gatherings and follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance. CDC has issued recommendations for implementation of mitigation strategies in Florida, including recommendations to cancel large gatherings of more than 250 people and smaller gatherings that may bring persons together from multiple parts of the country.
Florida Department of Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran has provided strong recommendations for extending spring break following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issuing guidance specific to COVID-19 in Florida. In addition, the Department of Education announced that the start of state testing will be delayed by a minimum of two weeks.Banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 15, 2020

Contact: Joint Information Center on COVID-19 for the State of Florida
(850) 815-4940, [email protected]

Florida Department of Health Announces New Positive COVID-19 Cases in Florida

TALLAHASSEE — The Florida Department of Health has announced 39 new positive cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Earlier today, the Florida Department of Health confirmed the death of a 77-year old male in Lee County who had previously tested positive for COVID-19. Yesterday, Governor Ron DeSantis sent a letter to Health and Human Services requesting the release of 61 Florida residents from Georgia, many of whom are elderly, who were previously aboard the Grand Princess voyage outside of California.

To keep Florida residents and visitors safe and aware about the status of the virus, the Department is issuing regular updates as information becomes available.

New Positive Cases

A 55-year old female in Clay County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 79-year old female from Connecticut has tested positive for COVID-19 in Baker County. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. The epidemiological investigation is ongoing.
A 72-year old female in Lee County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 60-year old female in Citrus County has tested positive for COVID-10. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A male in Duval County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. Further details to follow.
A 64-year old female in St. Johns County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 71-year old male in Volusia County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 48-year old female in Orange County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 70-year old male in Clay County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A male in Duval County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. Further details to follow.
A 47-year old male in Hillsborough County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a domestic travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 67-year old male in Pasco County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a domestic travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 32-year old female in Hillsborough County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a domestic travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 17-year old male from Cuba has tested positive in Hillsborough County. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. The epidemiological investigation is ongoing.
A male in Duval County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. Further details to follow.
A 28-year old male in Miami-Dade County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 58-year old female in Miami-Dade County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 25-year old female in Miami-Dade County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 62-year old male in Miami-Dade County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 74-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 48-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 19-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 19-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 65-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 20-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 42-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 52-year old male in Miami-Dade County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 65-year old female from New York has tested positive for COVID-19 in Alachua County. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials. The epidemiological investigation is ongoing.
A 63-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 19-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 30-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 60-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 20-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 19-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 66-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 83-year old male in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 20-year old female in Broward County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 76-year old male in Collier County has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
A 28-year old male in Collier County has tested positive for COVID-19. This is a travel related case. This individual is isolated and will continue to remain isolated until cleared by public health officials.
COVID-19 Cases

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*Definition of travel-related: A known history of exposure to COVID-19 associated with travel outside of Florida.

International Travel

U.S. Department of State – Global Level 3 Health Advisory

The U.S. Department of State advises U.S. citizens to reconsider travel abroad due to the global impact of COVID-19. Many areas throughout the world are now experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks and taking action that may limit traveler mobility, including quarantines and border restrictions. Even countries, jurisdictions, or areas where cases have not been reported may restrict travel without notice.

CDC Guidelines

The Florida Department of Health is advising all individuals who have traveled internationally to follow CDC guidelines, summarized below:

Level 3 Travel Advisory: CDC recommends 14-day self-isolation and social distancing upon return to the United States. Social distancing includes avoiding going out in public and close personal interactions. If you become symptomatic, immediately self-isolate and contact your County Health Department or health care provider.
Level 2 Travel Advisory and Cruises: Travelers should monitor their health and limit interactions with others for 14 days after returning to the United States. If you become symptomatic, immediately self-isolate and they should call ahead to a health care professional or their county health department before seeking treatment.
According to CDC, a cruise ship is defined as a passenger vessel involving the movement of large numbers of people in closed and semi-closed settings.
For more information regarding current CDC travel advisories related to COVID-19, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html
A person that experiences a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as fever, cough or shortness of breath, within 14 days after travel from China, Italy, Iran, South Korea, Japan and any other destination under CDC travel advisory should call ahead to their health care provider or local County Health Department (CHD) and mention their recent travel or close contact, unless they are experiencing an emergency.

If a person has had close contact with someone showing these symptoms who has recently traveled from areas or been in contact with a person with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19, they should call ahead to a health care professional and the County Health Department. The health care professional will work with the Department to determine if the person should be tested for COVID-19.

Nile Cruise Advisory

The Florida Department of Health is advising all individuals who traveled to Egypt for a cruise or tour on the Nile River in February or March 2020 to self-isolate for 14 days following their date of return to the United States, and if ill, immediately contact their CHD or health care provider. Several passengers in the United States recently developed symptoms and have been confirmed to be infected with COVID-19, including over 10 positive cases in Florida.

Port Everglades Advisory

The Department, through an extensive epidemiological investigation, has identified multiple, positive COVID-19 cases that are connected and associated with Port Everglades in Broward County, Florida.

The Department recommends all individuals experiencing symptoms who have recently traveled through Port Everglades to immediately contact their CHD or health care provider and self-isolate for 14 Days.
The Department also recommends employees of Metro Cruise Services at Port Everglades with any association to these cases self-isolate at home.
The Department is working to connect with all employees at Metro Cruise Services who may have come into contact with the three individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 to provide the employees with the appropriate guidance and monitoring.
The Department is working in close consultation with the CDC on this investigation.
CDC recommends that individuals with recent travel history on a cruise monitor their health for 14 days and, if they develop symptoms, immediately self-isolate and contact their CHD or health care provider.
COVID-19 Public Website and Call Center

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 [email protected].

Actions the State of Florida has taken on COVID-19:

Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-52 declaring a State of Emergency for COVID-19.
Governor Ron DeSantis directed the Florida Division of Emergency Management to activate to Level II to coordinate the state’s response to COVID-19.
Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-51directing the State Surgeon General to declare a Public Health Emergency.
State Surgeon General Dr. Scott Rivkees declared a Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 in Florida.
Established an Incident Management Team to coordinate response operations.
Activated a dedicated incident command post for on-site response activities.
Conducted public health and health care stakeholder conference calls to provide statewide updates on the current outbreak situation, response actions and guidance for pandemic planning. Over five hundred participants joined these calls.
Participated with the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) on statewide conference calls with nursing homes, assisted living facilities and hospitals.
Established a public call center for questions regarding COVID-19.
Developed and distributed an updated COVID-19 presentation to CHDs for use at community meetings.
Implemented protocols for investigation, surveillance and monitoring for COVID-19 to rapidly detect and contain cases.
Established mechanisms for ongoing monitoring and coordination with the CDC regarding epidemiological activities.
Distributed CDC Interim Guidance for public health personnel evaluating Persons Under Investigation (PUIs) and asymptomatic close contacts of confirmed cases at their home or non-home residential settings to CHDs.
Distributed the updated Clinician Screening Tool for identifying PUIs for COVID-19 and a health care provider letter regarding Enhanced Surveillance and Preparedness for COVID-19 to associations, licensed providers, Health Care Coalitions and CHDs.
Implemented testing at all three State Public Health Laboratories.
Distributed updated CDC guidance for schools to CHDs and the Department of Education.
Distributed updated Laboratory Guidance regarding implementation of testing at State Public Health Laboratories.
The Florida Department of Education in partnership with FLVS is training an additional 10,000 teachers statewide on the Virtual Teacher Training for COVID-19. Superintendents who are interested in offering their teachers the Virtual Teacher Training for COVID-19 should work with their County Virtual Principals to provide a list of teachers to FLVS through: https://www.flvs.net/FLVSTeacherTraining.
Governor DeSantis directed the Florida Division of Emergency Management and the Agency for Health Care Administration to take action to restrict access to vulnerable populations for those who may have been exposed to COVID-19. The Governor also directed the Florida Department of Corrections to suspend visitation at state prisons for 30 days.
Governor DeSantis requested that Health and Human Services send home the 61 Floridians that were previously aboard the Grand Princess cruise line, home from isolation from Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia.
Governor DeSantis has directed the Department of Health to hire additional epidemiologists from university health programs to help with workload.
Governor DeSantis has directed the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) to extend all existing nursing home and ALF licenses for 90 days to remove distraction from patient care.
Governor DeSantis directed Director Moskowitz to expand his emergency order and prohibit all visitation to nursing homes, assisted living facilities, adult family-care homes, long-term care facilities and adult group homes to all visitors for the next 30 days.
Governor DeSantis directed the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to suspend drivers’ license renewal requirements for 30 days.
Governor DeSantis directed all agencies to suspend for 30 days licensing and registration renewal requirements for existing processional licenses (e.g. realtors).
Governor DeSantis has recommended that local authorities strongly consider canceling mass gatherings and follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance. CDC has issued recommendations for implementation of mitigation strategies in Florida, including recommendations to cancel large gatherings of more than 250 people and smaller gatherings that may bring persons together from multiple parts of the country.
Florida Department of Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran has provided strong recommendations for extending spring break following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issuing guidance specific to COVID-19 in Florida. In addition, the Department of Education announced that the start of state testing will be delayed by a minimum of two weeks.

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