By Marsha Mullings, MPH
USA
35 million cases, 614,000 deaths
Florida*
2.6 million cases, 39,079 deaths
*The Florida Department of Health has suspended daily case and vaccine reports. The department will instead post weekly updates. The numbers reported here reflect the number of new cases and deaths for the previous week, July 23 – July 29.
Update
The US is experiencing an enormous surge in new coronavirus infections. The CDC reports that the spike in new cases is caused by the Delta variant of coronavirus. Florida is the epicenter of this new surge, contributing 20% of all new infections across the US.
The CDC forecasts between 200,000 and 1.2 million new coronavirus infections across the US over the next three weeks.
Florida is forecasted to record between 100,000 and 200,000 new infections over the next three weeks. Florida has recorded an average of 16,000 new infections daily, over the last week.
Hospitalizations are up sharply across the US and in Florida. 97% of new hospitalizations are among unvaccinated persons.
The CDC has issued new mask guidelines and has recommended vaccination for unvaccinated adults.
Vaccines remain a key weapon in the fight against coronavirus. Vaccinations are free and are available at pharmacies, health clinics and participating locations, without an appointment.
If you would like more information regarding vaccine efficacy or safety, please contact a healthcare provider.
Advisory
The Delta variant is a highly contagious strain of coronavirus that presents a serious risk for infection. The probability of infection from this variant is extremely high for unvaccinated persons. Remaining vigilant against disease transmission is critical. 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; www.coronavirus.jhu.edu; www.cdc.gov
