omicron variant

A week ago, Mayor Jerry Demings said Gov. Ron DeSantis was missing in action as COVID case numbers shot up in the state. The governor said he was with his wife as she underwent cancer treatment.

USF Health expert Jason Salemi says omicron seems to be less deadly than delta, but cautions Floridians should still take the surge in cases seriously.

Officials say the site will test everyone in need, but are asking people who received booster shots and don't have symptoms to hold off on coming to the site to ensure there are enough tests for those who are sick.

In a letter to students, faculty and staff, university system Board of Governors Chairman Syd Kitson and system Chancellor Marshall Criser promised in-person learning will continue on all campuses.

It's the highest number of cases reported on one day since early September and comes just a day after the state reported more than 20,000 new cases.