Coronavirus updates: Here’s what to know in Bradenton and Manatee County on May 3
The latest on the coronavirus pandemic in Bradenton and Manatee County.
Two more deaths reported in Manatee County
Manatee County lost two more residents to COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, Florida health officials reported Saturday.
The death toll in Manatee County is now 59.
The total number of positive COVID-19 cases took another upward swing in Manatee County, with 16 new cases bringing the total to 607 cases. The Florida Department of Health also is reporting six new hospitalizations since Friday afternoon’s update, bringing the total number of residents hospitalized to 162.
Florida to partially reopen
Manatee and most of the rest of Florida will partially reopen Monday.
Here are some details about how that might play out in Manatee County:
Public beaches are about to reopen on Anna Maria Island. Parking could be a challenge.
Bradenton area retail stores announce plans to partially reopen after governor’s order.
‘Best weekend ever to nothing.’ Some Bradenton restaurants reopening, others stress caution.
COVID-19 postponed elective surgeries. Manatee Memorial Hospital is ready to resume
Warnings about reopening
A study has identified 22 small metropolitan and rural counties in eight states that appear to be on the verge of an exponential surge in cases. Manatee County is among those impending hot spots identified.
Read the details here.
Also, several public health experts are offering their critiques about Gov. Ron DeSantis’s plan to reopen Florida.
Most said it was a reasonable, balanced plan, but five of the seven consulted by the Miami Herald and Tampa Bay Times said it was soon to deploy it.
Dr. Les Beitsch, the state’s deputy secretary of health in 2018, said there’s one chance to get this right, so why rush?
“Once you reopen, it’s difficult to have a time out. It creates a serious concern about people’s trust in their leadership,” Beitsch said. “And if you’re incorrect, the consequences could be catastrophic.”
NEED A JOB? LOOK HERE
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.
Meanwhile, these companies say they are hiring.
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.