Coronavirus updates: Here’s what to know in Bradenton and Manatee County on April 29
The latest on the COVID-19 pandemic in Bradenton and Manatee County.
More COVID-19 deaths reported
Four more residents have been added to the COVID-19 death toll in Manatee County, according to the Florida Department of Health, raising the official death toll to 46.
An additional 30 county residents had tested positive for the coronavirus, according to the data released by the health department Tuesday, putting the total number of cases at 563.
Manatee County beaches to reopen — sort of
Starting Monday, May 4, public beaches in Manatee County will reopen with certain restrictions, as part of a phased reopening of the county.
The Manatee Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the proposal Tuesday afternoon, citing a need to reopen beaches for essential activity. Local beaches have been closed since March 20 to help limit the spread of COVID-19.
County Administrator Cheri Coryea suggested that Manatee could open beaches with a limited amount of 2-hour parking. Social distancing guidelines would remain in place, as well. Unlike in Sarasota, there will be no restrictions on beach supplies.
“What we were looking at were parking restrictions to reduce the amount available and asking people to limit the time they were there with limited time parking so that more individuals could enjoy the beach,” Coryea explained.
“We think it’s something our citizens will be so excited about that they’ll follow the guidelines,” she added.
County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh said, “People want to be able to walk on the beach.”
Drive-thru testing starts Wednesday
The Florida Department of Health in Manatee County wants to get more residents tested.
In an effort to make that happen, prescriptions to be tested for COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, are no longer needed, but an appointment is required.
In a statement released Tuesday, health officials note, “Patients who call to get an appointment will be screened for signs and symptoms and then scheduled for a specimen collection at the drive-through.”
Testing will be done at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd, in Palmetto. Health officials initially said a prescription would be needed, but that is no longer the case.
The three-day testing period begins Wednesday and appointments can be made by calling 941-748-0747 and there is no cost for anyone being tested at the drive-thru sites.
Testing is scheduled to begin Wednesday at 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and will continue Thursday and Friday at the same times.
DOH is reporting that there are 240 tests available and will schedule up to 80 appointments for each day.
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.