Politics & Government
Pinellas County Commissioners Extend Coronavirus State Of Local Emergency Through Aug. 7
The board received an update suggesting mask wearing, social distancing and the state's temporary closure of bars have slowed the spread.
July 30, 2020
The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners on Thursday extended its State of Local Emergency declaration for COVID-19 to Aug. 7 after receiving an update suggesting that efforts such as mask wearing, social distancing and the state’s temporary closure of bars have slowed the virus spread.
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Dr. Ulyee Choe, director of the Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County, reported that Pinellas County’s 7-day rolling average for new COVID-19 cases per day and percentage of positive tests are 256 and 7 percent, respectively, representing a significant improvement from previous weeks. He did relate that Pinellas has seen in an increase in COVID-19 deaths, adding that 90 percent have occurred among patients older than 65.
Dr. Angus Jameson reported a slight decrease in COVID-19 hospitalizations but expressed concern that individuals with other serious health conditions may be avoiding hospitals. “We want to make sure people know that the hospitals are doing everything they need to do to keep you safe and not let you get COVID while you come to the hospital,” he said. “If you’re having a significant medical issue, we want you to feel comfortable to call 911 or access care at the hospital as you normally would.”
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Both doctors emphasized that residents should not let their guard down based on this week’s encouraging data. Besides wearing facial coverings and social distancing, everyone is advised to practice the 3 Cs and avoid closed spaces, crowded places and close-contact settings.
The Board’s extension of the emergency declaration also keeps in force an ordinance requiring face coverings be worn and social distancing practiced in indoor public places. This includes a requirement that only seated and properly distanced patrons be served in food establishments.
Information about COVID-19 testing, the Pinellas CARES programs and CDC guidance, as well as a Data Dashboard and links to news releases and state and county orders, can be found at covid19.pinellascounty.org.
This press release was produced by the Pinellas County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.