Coronavirus updates: Here’s what to know in Bradenton and Manatee County on April 21
The latest of the COVID-19 pandemic in Bradenton and Manatee County.
Two more die in Manatee County
Another two people have died in Manatee County after testing positive for COVID-19, according to the Florida Department of Health.
Now at 33 deaths, Manatee County has the most reported COVID-19-related fatalities of any county in the Tampa Bay area, and the fourth most in the state.
A total of 433 Manatee County residents have tested positive.
High school sports seasons over
The Florida High School Athletic Association announced the cancellation of spring sports for the 2019-20 season on Monday.
The move was expected following Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ announcement Saturday that schools will continue distance learning for the remainder of the school year due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
“The safety of our student-athletes,coaches, officials, and fans is our top priority,” the FHSAA’s announcement read. “With the evolving threat of the CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19), we must ensure that we do not contribute to the spread of this illness. We are deeply saddened for our student-athletes who have seen their seasons and/or high school careers end so abruptly. Our Association knows the impact and role high school athletics play in the lives of so many and will continue to work towards the betterment of high school sports.”
More bad news for Bradenton workers
With 28.8 percent of its workforce in the retail trade and leisure and hospitality sectors, the Bradenton-Sarasota-North Port metropolitan workforce is forecast to be the eighth hardest-hit mid-sized metro in the United States during the coronavirus pandemic.
The COVID-19 crisis disproportionately affects the 21.3 percent of Americans working in retail, leisure, and hospitality. They not only face lack of work but also suffer from long-standing, below-average wages, according to the business website, Volusion.
The total number of leisure and hospitality workers in the Bradenton-Sarasota-North Port area is estimated at 45,700, with nearly as many -- 44,600 -- working in retail.
NEED A JOB? LOOK HERE
A website projects the unemployment rate in Manatee-Sarasota could hit 28 percent, as businesses shut down by the COVID-19 pandemic shed jobs.
Local business organizations are not standing pat.
Employers can post jobs while workers displaced by the coronavirus pandemic can search for them at jobfocus.com, a service hosted by the Manatee Chamber of Commerce.
Also, here is a link to more information about applying for unemployment benefits in Florida.
ORGANIZATIONS OFFERING HELP
Resources are available to help struggling Manatee County residents through the COVID-19 pandemic. Opportunities also exist to support local relief efforts, which are facing a sudden and overwhelming demand.
With all schools closed through May 1, area students might struggle to find their daily lunch, and parents may need child care while they continue working. Other residents are losing work hours or jobs with the restrictions placed on restaurants and bars.
Here is a list of some of the organizations offering help.
Need help paying rent or utility bills? Check out the groups listed here.
BRADENTON RESTAURANTS OFFERING TAKE-HOME AND DELIVERY SERVICES
The Bradenton Herald has published a list of restaurants offering take out and/or delivery services during the coronavirus pandemic.
Also, feel free to leave the names, addresses and phone numbers of other restaurants, either as a comment on our Facebook page or on the page for the Manatee Eats group.
TIPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE CORONAVIRUS
There’s no vaccine for the COVID-19 virus, and experts say one may be months away from mass production.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest avoiding close contact with people who are sick, avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, staying home when you are sick, covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
The agency also advises washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
The CDC does advise that people wear face masks to avoid either contracting the virus or passing it on.
THE LATEST CLOSINGS AND CANCELLATIONS
Numerous businesses and organizations in Bradenton have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic. For a list of closings, cancellations and postponements, check out our list.
This story was originally published April 21, 2020 at 5:00 AM.