COVID-19 kills six more Manatee residents. Florida has another record day for deaths
The number of COVID-19 cases and deaths have continued to rise throughout Florida. In its update on Friday, the state health department reported six new deaths in Manatee County, bringing the local toll to 182.
Throughout the last week, Florida has continually broken single-day records for the number of virus-related deaths. The state health department reported 257 new deaths among Florida residents on Friday, surpassing the 253 reported deaths on Thursday.
The number of cases in Manatee County increased by 180, from 8,337 to 8,517, while the number of statewide cases jumped by 9,007.
The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Florida was 470,386 as of Friday, while the statewide death toll stood at 6,843, according to the health department.
Surrounding counties
Sarasota County cases increased from 5,443 to 5,588. The death toll increased from 119 to 120.
DeSoto County cases increased from 1,251 to 1,264. The death toll remained at 14.
Hardee County cases increased from 819 to 833. The death toll remained at seven.
Hillsborough County cases increased from 28,742 to 29,116. The death toll Increased from 331 to 335.
Pinellas County cases increased from 16,114 to 16,356. The death toll increased from 418 to 432.
About one hour before the update Friday, the governor’s office published a news release on its One Goal One Florida initiative. In a one-minute video, Gov. Ron DeSantis urged residents to practice social distancing and regular hand-washing.
He also asked residents to wear a mask if they were in close contact with others, and to avoid closed spaces and crowded areas.
“These simple yet effective steps are the same steps you’ve been hearing about for months,” DeSantis said. “Now is not the time to let up.”
This story was originally published July 31, 2020 at 11:45 AM.