WUSF will be providing the latest news and information on coronavirus in Tampa Bay and across the state. Here are the latest developments:
Here are the latest figures as of Wednesay, July 1, according to the Florida Department of Health:
158,997 — Positive Tests | 3,550 — Deaths
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State Records Over 6,500 Positive Cases
According to the Florida Department of Health's Wednesday report, 158,997 people have tested positive for the coronavirus in the state, an increase of 6,563 positive tests since Tuesday.
It's the second straight day the number of new cases surpassed 6,000, and the eighth straight day they've surpassed 5,000.
In the Tampa Bay area, the state reported 1,753 more people tested positive in the 24 hours since the Tuesday report.
Sarasota County reported 119 new positive tests, the highest daily increase yet for the county.
The state also reported 45 deaths in 24 hours, bringing the statewide total to 3,550.
Of the more than 45,000 tests reported Tuesday, 16.5% came back positive. [Read more]
-- Lisa Peakes
Fourth Of July Celebrations Continue Across Tampa Bay
Fourth of July celebrations across the country are being cancelled amidst the rising numbers of COVID-19 cases, and most of the Tampa Bay region is following suit.
But some communities have found alternative ways to keep their events going while still following social distancing and other coronavirus prevention guidelines.
Here's a list of where you can celebrate Independence Day across Tampa Bay.
-- Alysia Cruz
Pence In Tampa Today To Talk Coronavirus With DeSantis
Vice President Mike Pence will be in Tampa this afternoon to discuss the state’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.
According to a news release, Pence will meet with Gov. Ron DeSantis before addressing the media later in the afternoon.
The visit comes as Florida has experienced a sharp increase in coronavirus cases. [Read more]
-- Carl Lisciandrello
Hillsborough Schools Cancels In-Person Graduation Ceremonies
Due to the increase in the number of COVID-19 cases, Hillsborough County Public Schools officials say they will hold graduations for the Class of 2020 virtually.
In a statement released Tuesday, the district said they looked at holding in-person ceremonies outside at high school stadiums. However, even those locations would not allow for proper social distancing.
In addition, they looked at other outdoor venues, but the cost to rent and sanitize them between graduations was not fiscally possible. Officials also said they were acting on advice of the county health department.
Each high school is going to hold drive-through diploma ceremonies.
-- Mark Schreiner
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