As health officials from the White House Coronavirus Task Force rolled out plans to begin phasing in the re-opening of the economy at the discretion of each state’s governor, each state must now assess its own level of risk and advise its citizens on how to proceed with their daily lives. With concerns for the tremendous financial burden many are already facing due to this crisis, many Floridians are eager to see the State return to normal, sooner, rather than later. However, there is much apprehension that rushing to open public spaces and businesses too soon will be detrimental to public health.
Ultimately, regardless of the decisions made by our elected officials, it will be up to the individual citizens to safeguard our own health and the health of our families and our communities. By doing so, our collective behavior will slow the spread of this virus. Making informed decisions by staying up to date on facts and staying clear of rumors and myths, are essential in this battle against COVID-19.
According to the Florida Department of Health (FLDOH), as of April 22, 2020 at 6:46pm, there were 27,791 confirmed positive COVID-19 cases in Florida residents. Of these cases, 927 have died. Most of the tests done in the State of Florida have been done by private labs (24,706) versus 3,085 cases that have been confirmed by FLDOH. Miami-Dade County currently has 10,289 confirmed positive cases with a median age of 49 years and 252 deaths. One area code, 33157, which includes Cutler Bay, Palmetto Bay, Kendall, Palmetto Estates, Richmond Heights, South Miami Heights, West Perrine, and Miami, has seen 474 cases so far. Broward County currently has 4,254 cases with a median age of 50 years and 147 deaths. Palm Beach County is currently reporting 2,413 cases with a median age of 56 years and 135 deaths.
The FLDOH advises that, “Adults 65 and older and those with underlying medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes and lung disease are more likely to develop serious illness.” If you think you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, you may contact your healthcare provider or review your symptoms using the CDC’s Coronavirus Self Checker at this link: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/testing.html. The COVID-19 Call Center is available 24/7 to answer all your questions: 1866-779-6121 or email COVID-19@flhealth.gov.
To speak with a healthcare provider at Primary Medical Care Center & Urgent Care Clinic to assess any non-emergency health concerns, including suspected COVID-19 symptoms, please call (305)751-1500 for our Miami-Dade clinic or (954)289-0000 for our Broward clinic. For life-threatening emergencies, always call 911. For coronavirus updates and resources, please visit our website at www.primarymed.com.
Sources: https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/