Coronavirus updates: Here’s what to know in Bradenton and Manatee County on May 1
The latest on the COVID-19 pandemic in Bradenton and Manatee County.
More deaths reported in Manatee
Six more people have died from COVID-19 in Manatee County, the largest one-day rise in the local death toll to date.
There are now 55 people who have died in Manatee County from the disease caused by the new coronavirus.
A total of 580 people have tested positive for the disease in Manatee County.
Free COVID-19 testing in Bradenton
Local healthcare provider MCR Health is partnering with Manatee County government to offer free drive-thru COVID-19 testing at four locations Saturday.
The testing opportunity is for Manatee County residents only. Participants must present a photo ID and proof of Manatee County residency to qualify.
For more details go here.
Getting ready to re-open
Here’s some of what happened as local residents prepare for a partial re-opening of beaches and many businesses starting Monday.
- Manatee County releases rules covering where — and for how long — you can park on Anna Maria Island when returning to the beach.
- Many restaurants are not in a hurry to re-open their dining rooms.
- Many local retailers announce plans to re-open their brick-and-mortar stores.
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.
This story was originally published May 1, 2020 at 5:00 AM.