The Centers for Disease Control have updated their numbers for the Corona virus here in Florida. Highlands, Hardee, Desoto and Okeechobee counties still reportedly are free of any confirmed cases of the disease.
Currently there are 432 cases confirmed in the Sunshine State with nine reported deaths.
The city of Avon Park will hold a special meeting this morning to declare a state of emergency in the City of Charm. The action will make it easier for the city to seek state and federal funds should the need arise.
The cancellations continue to pour in as any kinds of gatherings are called off to keep people isolated from each other. Both the Avon Park and Sebring High School proms have fallen victim, as has the Miss Avon Park beauty pageant.
Meanwhile some places remain open. Folks still can enjoy the great outdoors at Highlands Hammock State Park. However, officials at the Avon Park Air Force Range say they have closed their recreational areas until further notice.
Local health officials have clarified requirements for those wishing to be tested for the Corona Virus. People who are exhibiting the symptoms of the Corona Virus – shortness of breath, cough and fever – should contact their promary care physician. They will either test patients or refer them to the Highlands County Health Department.
If needed – candidates at risk may be called in for further screening. No walk-ups will be accepted people MUST CALL FIRST. Plans for a full drive up or mobile testing program are being formulated.
Highway 70 was shut down south of Lake Placid yesterday for a time. The bad news is that a trucker carrying bottled water lost control of his big rig near Denco Road. The good news is, he ended up in the sand and did not spill his load.
Crews were able to free the 18-wheeler. They did have to clean up some diesel fuel spilled in the incident. No injuries were reported in the crash.