Pinellas County Commissioners Extend Coronavirus State Of Local Emergency Through Sept. 11

PINELLAS COUNTY, FL — The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners on Thursday extended its state of local emergency declaration for the coronavirus through Sept. 11 after weighing public opinion and advice of public health professionals.

The extension keeps in effect an ordinance requiring face coverings and social distancing in public places and retains the county’s eligibility for reimbursement from FEMA for costs related to personal protective equipment and other expenses.

While acknowledging that the coronavirus trending data in Pinellas County has improved dramatically, the board determined that a cautious approach is prudent with 70,000 students and staff returning to schools and influenza season approaching.

The board also emphasized the importance of public education in the effort to combat the pandemic, including the promotion of wellness and nutrition, and following CDC guidance for properly washing face masks.

Dr. Jon Thogmartin, chief medical examiner for Pinellas and Pasco counties, provided context to CDC data showing that most coronavirus deaths had other contributing factors. He said that while the coronavirus does not typically kill young and healthy people, many Pinellas County residents have chronic health conditions or other risk factors and could become seriously ill if they catch the virus.

Dr. Ulyee Choe, director of the Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County, noted that flu shots are readily available and advised residents to get one.

“This year, more than any other year, getting the flu shot is of the utmost importance,” he said. “A lot of the symptoms of COVID-19 and the flu are the same. If you have to go into an institution or school that does symptom screening, having (flu-like) symptoms can cause a lot of disruptions.”

This press release was produced by the Pinellas County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.