By Marsha Mullings, MPH
USA
Cases: 78 million
Deaths: 926,000
Florida
Cases: 5.7 million
Deaths: 67,572
Update
*New coronavirus cases are rapidly decreasing. The daily average number of new cases is now 179,000 per day, a 75% decrease over the last month.
*While new cases are rapidly decreasing, COVID-19 deaths are holding steady at 2,500 new deaths per day across the US.
*New coronavirus cases have dropped sharply in Florida. The state has an average of 17,000 new coronavirus cases each day, a 43% decline since last week.
Announcements
Free N-95 Masks Available to the Public
The federal government’s Strategic National Stockpile has distributed 400 million N-95 masks to distribution centers around the country. Free N-95 masks are now available at Walgreens pharmacies, CVS pharmacies, Walmart, Publix, and Winn-Dixie/Fresco y Mas Supermarkets.
Advisory
Omicron is an extremely transmissible variant of the coronavirus. Vigilance is critical to reducing the chance of acquiring an infection. Practice good COVID-19 control strategies:
Observe social distancing guidelines (6 feet or more of separation from others).
Practice good hand hygiene (wash hands frequently with soap and warm water or use hand sanitizers).
Wear a mask when out in public if you are unvaccinated.
For more information on coronavirus (COVID-19) prevention, visit www.FloridaHealth.org; nyt.com; www.coronavirus.jhu.edu; www.cdc.gov;
