Coronavirus Fears Among Residents Are High

COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. Older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness. Wilton Manors, Oakland Park and the Fort Lauderdale areas have a high population of older residents, as well as a large population of people with compromised immune systems and other serious health issues.

However, with the latest numbers coming in, it is increasingly evident that younger people and those people with no prior conditions are testing positive for the coronavirus and at an alarmingly high rate. Staying home and avoiding crowds is the key to avoiding Covid-19.

It is mandated by law that you must wear a mask when out in public throughout Broward County. Cases of Covid-19 are increasing at an exponential rate and we should not become complacent about protecting ourselves and others from this invisible enemy. It is still important to practice social distancing and to avoid indoor spaces with large groups of people.

It is imperative that you protect others and yourselves by wearing a mask whenever you are in public, especially at grocery stores and places where food is served. Wash your hands often and for at least 20 seconds, using warm water and soap. Use hand sanitizer after coming into contact with door handles, grocery carts and other surfaces that are used by many people.

Sharing and touching cell phones can also be a problem for users, due to the proximity to your face, and the amount of touching we do with our phones on a daily basis. Remember to clean and disinfect your devices on a daily basis, as well as keyboards and other surfaces you may touch often. Try to avoid touching your face and your eyes, as this can transfer the virus from your hands.

If you see a business where people are not following the rules, report these violations by calling 311 or 954-357-9500. Businesses will be given a warning first, a $1,000 fine for a 2nd violation complaint, and for a 3rd violation, there is a hefty $15,000 fine.

With a little thoughtfulness, prior planning, some patience and resilience, we can all get through this. But we need everyone’s help. Please be aware of others around you who may not have healthy immune systems or who are older, but more importantly, take care of yourself. Do not become another statistic like the thousands of other people who are catching this terrible disease.

For more information about Covid-19 Testing, please visit the CDC Website.

The Florida Response to Covid-19 Website