BROWARD COUNTY, FL – The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has confirmed two cases of Coronavirus in Florida. The cases are in Hillsborough County and Manatee County on Florida’s west coast. Both people remain in isolation at this time. Despite the Florida cases, health professionals believe the overall immediate threat to the public remains low. However, like many communities, Broward County is taking proactive precautionary measures.
- Cleaning and disinfecting of our facilities is ongoing and cleaning crews have been advised to pay particular attention to areas that employees and members of the public come into contact with (e.g. escalator handrails, elevator buttons, door handles, bathroom fixtures, etc.). This includes at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Port Everglades and on our Broward County Transit buses.
- Broward County is in close contact with health officials, who are leading the response to Coronavirus, and our business and community partners including airlines, cruise lines, hospitals and human service providers.
- Agencies have been reviewing their Continuity of Operations Plans (COOPs) to ensure we are ready to respond further if the situation warrants. Fortunately, Florida residents and businesses in general, and South Florida specifically, are well versed in preparing for emergencies.
Symptoms of Coronavirus are very similar to those of the flu, as are the health care recommendations to prevent its spread. Broward County has shared the following preventive measures with its employees:
- If you are sick, stay home, and follow the advice of your health care provider
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; use hand sanitizers at home and in the workplace
- Cough and sneeze into your elbow, not your hands; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- Avoid close contact with anyone showing respiratory symptoms
- Over-the-counter masks are generally not an effective deterrent and are not recommended for the public at this time
- Evaluate your travel plans as conditions warrant; you should rethink traveling to areas that are already under a travel advisory or areas that are experiencing an outbreak of Coronavirus
Broward County will continue to monitor the Coronavirus closely and carefully. Information from the CDC regarding preventive measures is being posted in facility restrooms, break rooms and office areas. A website of helpful links, Broward.org/coronavirus, has been established. Broward County has also established an email box for employees to submit questions or concerns.
