In Hillsborough County, Florida, officials reported and additional three deaths in residents who tested positive for COVID-19. This brings the number of deaths to twelve.
The fatalities occurred in people in ages ranging from 55 to 92 years.
The county has seen 813 total cases through Monday.
Statewide, the Florida Department of Health has reported 21,019 total cases, including 499 deaths.
A majority of the members of the Hillsborough County Emergency Policy Group (EPG) voted Monday afternoon to implement the curfew in response to reports that some people are disregarding the State and Hillsborough’s Safer-at-Home Orders, and are participating in large social gatherings.
The curfew from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. in response to COVID-19 coronavirus went into effect in Hillsborough County on Monday evening, April 13.
Going to the grocery store, pharmacy, or to/from another essential activity, is still allowed during curfew hours. Otherwise, residents must stay off the streets. Social gatherings are not considered essential.
Also, EPG members endorsed the concept of an order mandating residents to wear face coverings while in public where they will interact with other people. This would include in stores, while using public transit, or running essential errands. EPG members asked that a draft of such an order, similar to one adopted in Osceola County, be prepared for review and implementation at their next meeting on Thursday, April 16.
In other action, EPG members heard:
- A presentation from the University of South Florida’s College of Public Health about a project to model projections for the spread of COVID-19 in the Tampa Bay area. The information could be used to predict the timetable for a surge of cases, as well as when public safety measures can be adjusted or lifted. Details on how residents can participate in a community survey for the project will be available later this week.
- That a plan has been completed for an alternate-care facility, should one be necessary if local hospitals become overwhelmed by COVID-19 patients.
- That a plan for testing options for residents who do not have transportation or who are homebound are almost finalized.
