Face Masks, Distancing Prevented 1.4M Coronavirus Cases: Expert

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — A University of South Florida epidemiologist says the use of face masks and social distancing has averted about 1.4 million coronavirus cases in the region.

Dr. Edwin Michael, a University of South Florida professor and epidemiologist who studies the spread and control of global infectious diseases, shared this news with Hillsborough County commissioners at Wednesday's commission meeting.

Using data and modeling, Michael talked about the short- and long-term forecasts for the pandemic in the Tampa Bay region. According to Michael, measures such as face covering mandates and social distancing protocols have prevented the pandemic from becoming much more serious.

With coronavirus cases climbing and vaccines not yet available, Michael said even a moderate decrease in social measures will result in dramatic increases in daily cases and hospitalizations.

The bottom line, Michael said: residents should continue to wear face coverings, practice social distancing and avoid traveling and large gatherings during the holidays. These measures coupled with the eventual widespread use of vaccines will make a dramatic difference in the region by the summer, he predicted.

In light of the increase in cases, a majority of commissioners voted to send a letter to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, asking that he reinstate the executive order allowing governing bodies to meet in an all-virtual format.

After eight months of virtual county commission meeting, DeSantis rescinded the order in October and begin requiring that all public meetings, both city and county, take place in person with a quorum of members attending.

“As Florida continues in Phase 3 and millions of Floridians go to work and school every day, it is time for local government officials to safely return to meeting in-person, where Florida law requires, to conduct official business in the sunshine on behalf of their constituents," DeSantis said in a statement.

However, some Hillsborough County commissioners said they don't feel comfortable meeting in person in light of the rising number of positive coronavirus cases.

With the increase in positive coronavirus cases, Hillsborough County Emergency Management Director Timothy Dudley told commissioners that public interest in coronavirus testing is picking up again.

County officials closed several testing sites as public demand began to wane in September.

However, Dudley said interest began picking up again in November with the approach of the holidays and a steady rise in new coronavirus cases.

On Dudley's recommendation, the commission agreed to open two more drive-through testing locations this week.

The new sites will open Dec. 7 at Vance Vogel Sports Complex, 13012 Bullfrog Creek in Riverview, and Dec. 9 at William Owen Pass Sports Complex, 1300 Sydney Dover Road in Dover. Both testing sites will be open three days a week.

Testing is by appointment. All residents who wish to be tested must register in advance by going to clicking here or by calling 888-513-6321 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Other drive-thru testing sites are located at:

• Suncoast Community Health Center, 313 S. Lakewood Drive, Brandon, offering weekend and evening hours.
• Lee Davis Community Resource Center, 3402 N. 22nd St., Tampa, Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The testing is free. A doctor's note or prescription is not required. Individuals who have health insurance should bring their insurance cards with them in case this information is requested.

Click here for more information about testing.