COVID-19 in Manatee County surpasses 3,200 cases. Florida has third-highest daily jump
The Florida Department of Health reported another 86 cases of COVID-19 in Manatee County on Friday, as residents entered the holiday weekend. The local infections were part of 9,488 new cases throughout the state.
Friday’s statewide numbers represent the third-highest increase over one day. The largest increase was on Thursday, with 10,109 new cases, and the second highest was on June 27, with 9,585 new cases.
As of Friday morning, there were 3,261 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Manatee County, and 178,594 cases throughout Florida.
The local death count rose by one, to 131, while the number of deaths among Florida residents increased by 67, bringing the total to 3,684.
A news release from the state — titled “Protect the Vulnerable as the Fourth of July Holiday Weekend Approaches” — urged residents and visitors to safeguard each other, especially the elderly and people with underlying health conditions.
The announcement, released on Thursday, included prepared statements from Gov. Ron DeSantis and Florida’s surgeon general, Scott Rivkees.
“As we head into this holiday weekend, I encourage all Floridians be diligent in avoiding closed spaces, crowded places and close-contact settings, and remember to wear a mask,” DeSantis said. “Together, we must continue to take the appropriate steps to slow the spread of this virus.”
“Many asymptomatic individuals are unknowingly carrying the COVID-19 virus in public,” Rivkees followed. “Wearing a mask in public settings, frequently washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and observing the latest social distancing guidelines will also amplify our ongoing efforts in protecting our most vulnerable populations from contracting this virus.”
Coronavirus cases in surrounding counties:
- Sarasota County — cases increased by 107, from 1,707 to 1,814, while the death toll remained at 98.
DeSoto County — cases increased by 15, from 661 to 676, while the death toll remained at 10.
Hardee County — cases increased by 28, from 468 to 496, while the death toll remained at three.
Hillsborough County — cases increased by 668, from 12,376 to 13,044, while the death toll increased from 145 to 148.
Pinellas County — cases increased by 836, from 6,861 to 7,697, while the death toll increased from 172 to 183.
This story was originally published July 3, 2020 at 12:33 PM.