Ocala Post (Ocala News) - Archive

Marion County update on COVID-19 by zip code

Ocala Post

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April 6, 2020

Marion County received confirmation of five additional cases of COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, today. This brings Marion County’s total case count to 55.

The most recent individuals confirmed to have the virus are a 26-year-old female, two 29-year-old females, a 42-year-old female, and a 44-year-old female. Two are from Summerfield; and then one each is from Belleview, Silver Springs, and Ocala.

- Below are zip codes where cases have been confirmed. Those marked in red represent the areas with the most cases.

32179
32617
34420
34431
34432
34471
34472
34473
34474
34476
34479
34480
34481
34482
34488
34491

How to Get Tested

Residents can get tested for COVID-19 at multiple places in Marion County. Places offering testing include the Department of Health, Heart of Florida Health Center, Langley Medical Center, and some primary care providers.

Testing at the Department of Health

Individuals who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 AND who meet one or more of the following categories should call the Department of Health in Marion County’s 24/7 COVID-19 hotline (352-644-2590) to schedule an appointment:

Over age 65
Over age 50 and have diabetes or cardiovascular disease
Health care worker
First responder
Recent traveler to any international locations or domestic locations (New York tri-state area, California, Louisiana, etc.) currently impacted by COVID-19

Testing at Another Medical Provider’s Facility

Contact your primary care provider to see about the possibility of testing at the provider’s office if you would like to be tested but don’t meet the above criteria for testing at the Department of Health.

If you do not have a primary care provider or if your primary care provider is unable to test, contact the following to see if you qualify for screening:

· Heart of Florida Health Center (352-732-6599, www.myhfhc.org/)

· Langley Medical Center (352-680-7000, www.langleymedicalcenter.com)

Tiger tests positive for COVID-19

Rebecca Long

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April 6, 2020

24

covid-19, tiger tests positive, ocala news, bronx zoo, ocala post — ANDREW LICHTENSTEIN, CORBIS/GETTY IMAGES

Scientists are now rushing to try and figure out what other species of animals could possibly become infected with COVID-19 after a Brox Zoo Malayan tiger named Nadia tested positive Sunday.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed the case to Ocala Post via email.

The Brox Zoo also confirmed the case.

Paul Calle, the chief veterinarian for the Bronx Zoo, said, “It’s the first time, to our knowledge, that an animal has gotten sick from COVID-19 from a person.”

Officials said that they do not know who passed the virus to the tiger, but will continue to investigate. The Zoo has been closed since March 16.

“The only thing that makes sense is that the tiger got it from a zookeeper,” Calle said.

According to the USDA, several domestic animals had previously tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. This includes a Pomeranian and a German shepherd in Hong Kong, as well as a domestic cat in Belgium.

According to scientists, cats, both wild and domestic, can catch feline coronavirus. However, until recently, no one knew whether animals could contract SARS-CoV-2.

Scientists say a new study has found that cats could infect each other.

Two Ocala residents die from COVID-19

Ocala Post

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April 5, 2020

50

Two Marion County residents — an 88-year-old male and a 58-year-old male — passed away this weekend after contracting COVID-19. Both were Ocala residents. These are the first two deaths linked to COVID-19 in Marion County.

As of 6 p.m., Sunday, April 5, Marion County has 50 total COVID-19 cases. The most recent individuals confirmed to have the virus range in age from 36 to 77; five are from Ocala, two are from Summerfield, and one is from Dunnellon. For more detailed information, including zip code level data of all Marion cases, view Florida’s COVID-19 Data and Surveillance Dashboard.

How to Get Tested

Residents can get tested for COVID-19 at multiple places in Marion County. Places offering testing include the Department of Health, Heart of Florida Health Center, Langley Medical Center, and some primary care providers.

Testing at the Department of Health

Individuals who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 AND who meet one or more of the following categories should call the Department of Health in Marion County’s 24/7 COVID-19 hotline (352-644-2590) to schedule an appointment:

Over age 65
Over age 50 and have diabetes or cardiovascular disease
Health care worker
First responder
A recent traveler to any international locations or domestic locations (New York tri-state area, California, Louisiana, etc.) currently impacted by COVID-19

Testing at Another Medical Provider’s Facility

Contact your primary care provider to see about the possibility of testing at the provider’s office if you would like to be tested but don’t meet the above criteria for testing at the Department of Health.

If you do not have a primary care provider or if your primary care provider is unable to test, contact the following to see if you qualify for screening:

Heart of Florida Health Center (352-732-6599, www.myhfhc.org/)
Langley Medical Center (352-680-7000, www.langleymedicalcenter.com)

Eerie public service announcement in Walmart parking lot

Ocala Post

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April 5, 2020

0

Eerie public service announcement in Walmart parking lot

[Submittted video — edited by Alyssa Durning/OP]

End of the world creepy! That is how a reader described a public service announcement she recorded while at the Walmart on Highway 40 in Ocala.

The recording is quite eerie…and the voice used for the announcement definitely adds to the creepy factor. Almost as if it were plucked from a Sci-Fi movie.

Comments open below

COVID-19 update for Marion County, city-by-city breakdown

Ocala Post

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April 3, 2020

2

COVID-19 update for Marion County, city-by-city breakdown

OCALA, Fla.—As of 6 p.m. Friday, April 3, Marion County has 38 total COVID-19 cases. The most recent individuals confirmed to have the virus include a 53-year-old female, a 59-year-old female, a 35-year-old male, and a 63-year-old male (all from Ocala); a 64-year-old male from Summerfield; and a 26-year-old female who is a New York resident. A previously reported case was reallocated to Orange County.

Ages of all Marion residents with cases span from 19 to 88. Of those affected, 26 are from Ocala, six from Summerfield, two from Belleview, two from out-of-state, and one each from Dunnellon and Ocklawaha.

How to Get Tested

Residents can get tested for COVID-19 at multiple places in Marion County. Places offering testing include the Department of Health, Heart of Florida Health Center, Langley Medical Center, and some primary care providers.

Testing at the Department of Health

Individuals who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 AND who meet one or more of the following categories should call the Department of Health in Marion County’s 24/7 COVID-19 hotline (352-644-2590) to schedule an appointment:

Overage 65
Overage 50 and have diabetes or cardiovascular disease
Health care worker
First responder
A recent traveler to any international locations or domestic locations (New York tri-state area, California, Louisiana, etc.) currently impacted by COVID-19

Testing at Another Medical Provider’s Facility

Contact your primary care provider to see about the possibility of testing at the provider’s office if you would like to be tested but don’t meet the above criteria for testing at the Department of Health.

If you do not have a primary care provider or if your primary care provider is unable to test, contact the following to see if you qualify for screening:

Heart of Florida Health Center (352-732-6599, www.myhfhc.org/)
Langley Medical Center (352-680-7000, www.langleymedicalcenter.com)

Business owner runs off backseat lovers

Ocala Post

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April 3, 2020

15

The owner of Team Bulldog Garage, Nmar Perez, said on Thursday that she and a tow truck driver had to run off two people who were “getting it on” in the backseat of a vehicle.

The owner, who also lives on the property, said that two vehicles pulled up in the parking lot of her business, one driven by a male and the other a female.

She said the female got out of her truck and entered the other vehicle.

Perez said it was after hours and she was home alone with her children because her husband is a U.S Marine and is currently deployed with The National Gaurd due to COVID-19.

“I didn’t know who they were. It was weird. I finished putting away my four-wheeler and went into my house to retrieve my handgun. By the time I came back, I could not believe my eyes…they were already in the backseat getting it on,” said Perez.

She said it was at that time a business colleague pulled up in a tow truck and she told him what was happening.

She said they told the two individuals, “You are on private property. You have five minutes to pull up your pants and get out of here.”

Perez said they drove off and did not give any further problems.

With laughter, Perez said, “This is not social distancing.”

She said she did not feel it was necessary to call the police.

MCSO detective resigns following multiple sexual harassment claims

Ocala Post

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April 2, 2020

54

MCSO detective resigns following multiple sexual harassment claims

corrupt police, ocala news, ocala post, mcso corruption — MCSO Detective Travis O’Cull

[Last updated on April 14, 2020, at 6:59 a.m.]

A Marion County Sheriff’s Office detective resigned following an internal affairs investigation that revealed he had sexually harassed several women within the agency.

MCSO Detective Travis O’Cull, after being interviewed by an Internal Affairs Sgt., admitted that he had sent multiple sexually explicit messages and an explicit photo of himself to female coworkers.

One female employee told supervisors that O’Cull had attempted to put his hand up her dress — not once but twice — and grabbed her breast.

During an interview, O’Cull said on more than one occasion, he was drunk and did not remember sending sexually explicit messages to many of the women.

He said many of his advances were not unwelcomed and that, if read in the context of the complete conversation, his messages were not inappropriate.

O’Cull resigned before he could be terminated for violating agency directives regarding sexual harassment.

After this story was published, in an email to Ocala Post, a source stated that the harassment was common knowledge among many and that nothing was done until a formal complaint was filed. Following the first complaint, other women came forward.

O’Cull had worked for the agency since 2012.

Update on Marion County Public Schools

Ocala Post

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March 31, 2020

1

MARION COUNTY – First and foremost, the school district asks that all parents please be patient during this trying time as many parents have complained that the programs teachers and students use are overwhelming.

Marion County Public Schools’ update for today includes the following actions taken related to the COVID-19 situation:

· Chromebook distributions are taking place at schools to families who request a mobile device based on a recent at-home technology survey. Those still needing a device must contact their school directly. Parents/Families must sign required forms to use a district-owned device and make their own access arrangements with their chosen Internet service provider.

· MCPS employees continue a “hybrid” model of work, choosing at home or regular work location as their worksite. Teachers utilized today to polish their web pages, platform choices, and outreach efforts to their students.

· The district’s 43,000+ students officially start their distance learning tomorrow. Many are already participating in various platforms and communicating with their teachers online. Student assignments and activities are available on teacher web pages found at each school’s website accessible via www.marionschools.net.

· “Grab & Go” meal service completed its sixth day of service. Today, MCPS served 8,484 breakfast and lunch meals to 4,242 children. Since March 24, the district has handed out 45,673 meals. Click here to see updated delivery sites including 20 schools that prepare and deliver to 140-plus locations. Children no longer must be present to be served; however, parents/family members must present appropriate legal identification to pick up those meals on their children’s behalf. Families can call 211 or text “FoodFL” to 877-7877 for their nearest serving location. This program serves ALL children 18 and under regardless of whether they walk or ride a bicycle, bus or car to school and continues Monday-Friday until classes resume.

· To help students, parents and families deal with COVID-19, mental health resources are now linked on the district’s homepage for convenience.

· Florida’s Department of Education announced late Monday that all public schools would remain closed through May 1.

Suspect had to be tased as he fled from police

Ocala Post

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March 31, 2020

16

Suspect had to be tased as he fled from police

ocala news, tased, ocala post — Johnnie Baker

A 31-year-old man was charged with Driving While License Suspended-Habitual, Possession of Marijuana, and Resisting Arrest after he fled from police during a traffic stop.

Police said they initiated a traffic stop on a green Mercury after a license plate check showed that the car was not registered.

When the vehicle stopped, Johnnie Baker exited the vehicle and fled north on MLK BLVD. He left his girlfriend sitting in the passenger seat.

During the foot pursuit, Baker was tackled by an officer but was able to get away again.

Baker was later tased in the back, at which time he fell to the ground and was taken into custody without further incident.

Baker was out on bond for no insurance, driving without a license, and fleeing the scene of an accident.

Upon searching the vehicle, police found a small baggie of marijuana.

Baker’s girlfriend said the vehicle belonged to her but it was not registered.

Having a hard time with Florida’s unemployment website or phoning in? You are not alone

Ocala Post

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March 31, 2020

43

The website to apply for unemployment in Florida, connect.myflorida.com, is broken. You read correctly, broken.

The website, which cost taxpayers $77 million, keeps crashing because the website is not capable of handling a mass amount of traffic.

Legislators in Florida say some people have been able to file a claim just to have their information disappear.

Gov. Desantis claims that more than 21,000 people have filed, but other Florida representatives say they believe those numbers are grossly inflated.

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity announced Tuesday that they are scrambling to hire people to meet the demand, however, Rep. Carlos G. Smith said hiring people will not do any good if the website remains broken.

Additionally, the FDEO phone systems are barely operational. Any individuals who call either receive an “all circuits are busy” message or simply dead air. If the automated system does answer a call, it disconnects the call a short time later.

Smith says people are starting to panic because those who are unemployed are either already out of money or close to it.

FDEO spokeswoman Tiffany Vause said they were not prepared.

“The reason FDEO has been so unprepared is that the department’s budget is tied to the state’s unemployment rate,” Vause said.

It leaves questions like; How is the Department’s budget so tight, yet they spent $77 million of taxpayers money on a website that is not functional?

Boyfriend headedbutted girlfriend, punched her in the face

Ocala Post

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March 31, 2020

21

Boyfriend headedbutted girlfriend, punched her in the face

ocala news, ocala post, aggravated battery, kidnapping — Kasey Blue

Ocala police responded to the Dixie Motel, located at 1539 South Pine Avenue after a caller reported that a woman had been battered.

The victim told police that she and her boyfriend, identified as Kasey Blue, 31, became involved in a verbal argument and she tried to leave the motel room. The victim refused to tell the police what the argument was about.

According to reports, when the victim approached the door and attempted to leave, Blue headbutted her and then punched her in the face two times.

A witness attempted to intervene, but Blue was able to fight him off.

BLue was asleep in the motel room when police went to question him.

He was arrested and charged with Felony Battery and Kidnapping-False Imprisonment. Additionally, Blue had a warrant for his arrest for Aggravated Battery.

Blue is being held at the Marion County Jail without bond.

Work requirements waived for SNAP and TANF

Rebecca Long

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March 30, 2020

22

Work requirements waived for SNAP and TANF

At the request of Governor DeSantis, and in accordance with the federal Families First Coronavirus Act, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) will waive work requirements for individuals participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.

DCF and the Department of Economic Opportunity have partnered to apply good cause statewide for TANF and SNAP recipients normally subject to participate in mandatory work requirements as a condition to receive program benefits effective immediately. The temporary relief of mandatory work requirements will alleviate any undue burden during this public health emergency on individuals normally required to participate in these programs with no disruptions to the receipt of cash and/or food assistance benefits.

To check the status of your benefits, report changes, receive information faster by opting-in to receive electronic notifications, and upload documents 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, log into your MyACCESS account at https://www.myflorida.com/accessflorida/. If you have questions about your benefits and the temporary relief of work requirements during this time, please contact the Department of Children and Families customer center at 850-300-4DCF or visit the website at https://www.myflorida.com/accessflorida/.

State line checkpoint put in place for those trying to enter Florida

Ocala Post

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March 29, 2020

139

[Last updated on March 30, 2020, at 3:57 p.m.]

The Florida Highway Patrol now has a checkpoint in place at the Florida state line.

Some citizens are angry over the checkpoint, referring to it as a move by a police state.

Others say they feel it is a necessary move to prevent the spread of COVID-19 from those trying to enter from States like New York and New Jersey.

The press release, dated March 28, reads as follows.

Effective immediately, motorists who are traveling from areas with substantial community spread including Louisiana, New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, will be required to isolate for a period of 14 days upon entry to Florida or for the duration of their visit, whichever is shorter, and should be prepared for additional monitoring by DOH to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

Executive Order 20-86 does not apply to persons performing military, emergency, health or infrastructure response, or persons involved in any commercial activity, including individuals that live in Georgia and commute to work in Florida.

Upon entry in Florida, each arriving traveler or responsible family member (if traveling as a family) will be required to complete a traveler form. The form requires key information, including each traveler’s contact information and trip details. Failure to complete the form and failure to follow any isolation or quarantine order from DOH is a violation of Florida law.

Additionally, travelers will be provided with a traveler card, which has contact information and guidance in the event the traveler exhibits symptoms while in isolation that is attributed to COVID-19, including fever, cough, or shortness of breath.

To assist with the implementation and enforcement of the Executive Order, Florida Highway Patrol will staff the checkpoint at I-10 at the Alabama/Florida line, 24 hours a day with approximately 16 troopers in 12-hour shifts.

At the direction of Governor Ron DeSantis, the Florida Highway Patrol is assisting the Florida Department of Transportation and the Florida Department of Health (DOH) with a vehicle checkpoint on eastbound I-10 near the Florida-Alabama state line.

In addition to I-10, a checkpoint is being implemented at the Florida/Georgia line on I-95.

U.S 17 in Nassau County is open, while the southbound ramp from I-95 to U.S 17 is closed.

Motorists approaching any of the checkpoints should be prepared to reduce their speed and expect to receive directions from law enforcement.

Depending upon the motorist’s origin, they will be directed to either proceed back to the interstate or to pull aside for further screening.

Commercial motor vehicles should proceed in the left lane and may bypass the checkpoint to ensure the timely delivery of essential products across the state.

Marion County commission enacts ordinance for temporary closures

Ocala Post

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March 26, 2020

3

The BOCC says that based on testimony received by local law enforcement officials, certain establishments beyond restaurants involve handling and touching many surfaces.

The establishments also create a close proximity to other patrons and facility operators, which presents many opportunities for transmission of the virus; and the patrons are typically in closer proximity than the social distancing guidelines set forth by the CDC.

The emergency ordinance includes establishments that have the same, or higher level of risk of spread of COVID-19 as dine-in restaurants.

These establishments include; movie theaters, concert houses, playhouses, bowling alleys, arcade, gymnasiums and fitness studios bingo halls, internet cafes, and horsetrack gaming venues.

Many of these venues cater specifically toward senior citizens.

The board says that any establishment in violation of the ordinance will be considered a public nuisance.

Drive-In establishments or venues are excluded.

Citrus County officials report first death from COVID-19

Ocala Post

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March 25, 2020

0

Citrus County officials report first death from COVID-19

On Wednesday, the Citrus County Department of Health reported the first COVID-19 death in the county.

An 80-year-old Citrus County resident diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away on Wednesday, March 25.

Positive cases and fatalities are reported by DOH twice a day, at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

As of 9:59 p.m, here are the total numbers for Florida.

Wearing gloves in public is a waste of time, spreads germs, masks under certain conditions

Ocala Post

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March 24, 2020

59

$Wearing gloves in public is a waste of time, spreads germs, masks under certain conditions$

$latex gloves, covid-19, coronavirus, ocala news, ocala post$

Health officials say that wearing latex gloves while you are out and about is not a good idea.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the use of gloves out in public provides a false sense of security and represents a waste of resources. Additionally, wearing gloves does not contribute to a reduction of cross-transmission. In fact, it may do just the opposite and creates instances where people would not wash their hands.

“The use of contaminated gloves may result in germ transmission,” the WHO said.

Dr. Amesh Adalja, with Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, wrote, “Gloves are not recommended and are not something the general public would normally wear. This will definitely create a false sense of security and it is a waste of time…it will also create a demand for something unnecessary.”

For instance, if a person wears gloves and touches a shopping cart that is contaminated, the gloves then become contaminated and that person will spread the germs throughout the store.

According to the WHO, if a person uses a Lysol wipe to wipe down a cart that just happens to be contaminated, at that point, the contamination is contained. If a person wears gloves, they do not use a Lysol wipe. That person touches the cart, which in turn contaminates the gloves. That person will then walk around touching other things and spread the virus around.

Health officials say that when latex gloves are used in a healthcare setting, the gloves are worn for a short period of time and then discarded.

When to use a mask

If you are healthy, you only need to wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with the suspected 2019-nCoV infection.
Wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing.
Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
If you wear a mask, then you must know how to use it and dispose of it properly.
Before putting on a mask, clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
Cover mouth and nose with mask and make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask.
Avoid touching the mask while using it; if you do, clean your hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
Replace the mask with a new one as soon as it is damp and do not re-use single-use masks.
To remove the mask: remove it from behind (do not touch the front of mask); discard immediately in a closed bin; clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.

Businesses could face license suspensions if they do not comply with executive order

Ocala Post

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March 23, 2020

8

Businesses could face license suspensions if they do not comply with executive order

The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation announced this week that bars, restaurants, and nightclubs that do not adhere to the restrictions outlined in the governor’s COVID-19 executive order could face license suspensions.

The announcement comes following multiple reports of restaurants and bars that were still seating patrons.

Executive Order 20-71 directs all restaurants and food establishments in Florida to suspend on-premises food and alcohol consumption for customers.

Originally, the order allowed for 50 percent capacity and seating six feet apart, however, that was rescinded days after it was ordered.

The amended executive order reads:

“I hereby order all restaurants and food establishments licensed under Chapters 500 and
509, Florida Statutes, within the State of Florida to suspend on-premises food consumption for customers. Notwithstanding the foregoing, such establishments may operate their kitchens for the purpose of providing delivery or take-out services. Employees, janitorial personnel, contractors and delivery personnel shall be allowed access to such establishments for the purposes of delivery or take-out services.”

A spokesperson with the DBPR said that before law enforcement agencies can be given authority to enforce the order, the DBPR would need to receive a complaint. DBPR would then send deputies out to the location of the complaint with a copy of the executive order to pass on to the business owner or manager.

Gyms and Fitness Centers were also ordered to be closed.

Testing had been non-existent, third case confirmed in Marion County

Byron Durning

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March 22, 2020

43

[Last updated on March 25, at 4:25 p.m.]

The fourth case was confirmed by the DOH at 9:54 p.m.

Original story

OCALA, Fla.— On March 22, the Marion County Department of Health received notice of its third positive case of COVID-19.

The individual is a 48-year-old male with a travel history and is a Marion County resident.

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County (DOH-Marion) is now conducting its contact investigation and working on identifying and notifying individuals who will need to self-monitor for symptoms for a 14-day period. Contact investigations are a critical way for staff epidemiologists to track and prevent the spread of disease.

Up until this week, testing for COVID-19 in Marion County has been non-existent.

According to the CDC, tests are being prioritized in certain areas.

Several nurses with Ocala Regional Medical Center, who would only speak with Ocala Post if their identities were not revealed, stated that in many instances, since February, they have tested patients for everything except COVID-19 due to a shortage of tests and information.

In some cases, patients who presented with flu-like symptoms but tested negative for the flu were sent home with a prescription for antibiotics and allergy medicine. Some patients were only sent home and told to use Flonase and other allergy medicines.

Dr. Jay Patel, said, “I suspect COVID-19 has been in Marion County. I have seen patients with flu symptoms and they did, in fact, test negative for the flu. We have not had the capability to test for COVID-19.” He went on to say, “Patients have been instructed to see their primary care physician (PCP), but we have not been able to test for COVID-19. This is one reason why people have been worried and scared. All over, some have felt like death for weeks and have had little information and no cure. I suspect now that testing can be done that we will see cases increase.”

Ocala Post reached out to Ocala Regional and asked if staff were instructed to test for other things other than COVID-19 as well if there was a shortage of tests.

In a statement, ORMC Public Information Officer, Lauren Debick, wrote, “Thank you for reaching out. We are following the protocols set by the CDC and Department of Health regarding COVID-19 testing so questions about testing would be answered by those entities.”

The DOH did not respond to questions about the lack of testing in Marion County.

Many Marion County residents have taken to social media to share their frustration. Some explaining how they “felt like they had been hit by a truck” and tested negative for the flu in February. Some say they had to miss weeks of work due to a severe cough, fever, and congestion and felt they would never get better. Others have said that even after three weeks they still feel ill and plan to get tested now that tests are available.

We want to hear from you. Feel free to share your thoughts and stories.

NOTE: The Jay Patel mentioned in the article is not the Jay D. Patel, DO Resident Physician, Internal Medicine University of Central Florida/HCA GME with Ocala Regional Medical Center.

Rabies alert for Marion County

Ocala Post

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March 21, 2020

26

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County has issued a rabies alert for the area within the following boundaries:

Northwest Highway 320 to the north
• West Highway 326 to the south
Interstate 75 to the east
County Road 335 to the west

The alert is in response to positive laboratory results for rabies from a bobcat and raccoon. People who live or work within the rabies alert boundary should maintain a heightened awareness that rabies is active in the area.

Residents in the depicted area should avoid contact with free-roaming domestic animals or any wild animals. They should not leave pet food outside and should secure outside garbage in covered containers to avoid attracting wild animals. They should also ensure animals have current rabies vaccinations.

An animal with rabies could infect other animals that have not received a rabies vaccination. Domestic animals are at risk if they are not vaccinated, while rabies is always a danger in wild animal populations.

Rabies is a disease of the nervous system and is fatal to humans and warm-blooded animals. The only treatment for human exposure to rabies is rabies-specific immune globulin and rabies immunization. Appropriate treatment started soon after the exposure will protect an exposed person from the disease.

If you have been bitten or scratched by a wild or domestic animal, seek medical attention and report the injury to the Florida Department of Health in Marion County. If your pet is bitten by a wild animal, seek immediate veterinary assistance for the animal, and contact Marion County Animal Services.

Marion County DOH confirms first case of COVID-19

Ocala Post

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March 20, 2020

13

Marion County DOH confirms first case of COVID-19

Marion County received notice of its first positive case of COVID-19, the novel coronavirus, today. The person ill with the virus is a 59-year-old female.

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County (DOH-Marion) is now conducting its contact investigation and working on identifying and notifying individuals who will need to self-monitor for symptoms for a 14-day period. Contact investigations are a critical way for staff epidemiologists to track and prevent the spread of disease.

As Marion sees its first confirmed case, DOH-Marion Administrator Mark Lander emphasized the importance of mitigation practices in preventing the spread of the virus.

“We anticipate that we will continue to see cases of COVID-19 appear in our community due to the contagiousness of the virus and its current spread in the world. However, if we work together using mitigation practices, we can reduce COVID-19’s impact on our community,” Lander said. “Practicing social distancing, staying home when you are sick, frequently washing your hands, covering coughs and sneezes and following other prevention guidelines are important ways to stop the spread of the virus.”

Social distancing measures that have included the closure of schools and recommendations to cancel gatherings of more than 10 individuals are two of the ways that health officials hope to prevent the speed of the virus’ spread in the state. Preventing the speed and spread of the virus would “flatten the curve” and prevent overwhelm of health care systems.

DOH-Marion has been monitoring COVID-19 since its emergence and been in contact with Marion County Emergency Management and medical providers to prepare response activities in the event we were to see cases in Marion.

COVID-19 symptoms and treatment

The symptoms of COVID-19 can mirror illnesses such as influenza. Patients with COVID-19 typically display symptoms such as fever (100.4°F or higher), cough, and/or shortness of breath within 2 to 14 days of exposure to the virus. Approximately 80% of those affected with COVID-19 report mild to moderate illness and experience a complete recovery. Some experience more severe illness. People who are more vulnerable to the illness include individuals who are over age 65 with underlying health conditions, immunocompromised, ill or have underlying chronic health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes.

Many cases of COVID-19 can be managed at home by treating symptoms, and this is encouraged. However, if you develop worsening symptoms, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or inability to drink fluids, contact 911 and advise them of your symptoms as you may need treatment at a hospital.

COVID-19 overview, symptoms, and general prevention

COVID-19 is a new type of coronavirus; coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some causing illness in people and others that circulate among animals. Other coronaviruses include the common cold and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). COVID-19 is believed to have emerged from an animal source and is now capable of spreading from person-to-person.

Ocala PostOcala Newspaper - News without hiding the truth

Ocala PostOcala Newspaper - News without hiding the truth

Ocala PostOcala Newspaper - News without hiding the truth

Ocala PostOcala Newspaper - News without hiding the truth