OCALA, Fla.—Marion County is reporting 224 COVID-19 cases as of 11 a.m. The most recent individual confirmed to have the virus is a:

• 10-year-old male from Ocala

So far, 8,049 COVID-19 tests have been given in Marion County. Of those, 7,822 were negative. Individuals who tested positive for the virus have ranged in age from 6 months to 97. Five Marion County residents have died after becoming ill with COVID-19. Marion’s positive test rate is 2.8%; Florida’s positive test rate is 6.5%.

For more detailed information on all Marion cases, view Florida’s COVID-19 Data and Surveillance Dashboard.

Testing

The Department of Health in Marion County provides free COVID-19 testing for both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. You do not need a doctor’s order to be tested. People who are experiencing symptoms and others considered “high risk” have priority for testing slots.

Testing is by appointment only; call the DOH-Marion COVID-19 Call Center at 352-644-2590 to be scheduled for a COVID-19 test. Testing sites scheduled through the call center include the DOH-Marion Ocala office (1801 SE 32nd Ave.) and the College of Central Florida Hampton Center (1501 W. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala).

COVID-19 Symptoms

COVID-19 symptoms include cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, shaking, muscle pain, headaches, sore throat and a new loss of taste or smell. If you are experiencing symptoms, stay home and contact your healthcare provider; don’t go to work or school. You will need to get rest and stay hydrated. If you are not sick enough to need hospitalized, you can recover at home. Monitor your symptoms, and if they get worse, call your healthcare provider immediately. Seek medical attention immediately if you develop any of the following:

• Trouble breathing
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion or inability to arouse
• Bluish lips or face

For more guidance

For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Florida, visit floridahealthcovid19.gov. For general questions about COVID-19, call the state hotline (866-779-6121), local hotline (352-644-2590), or email COVID-19@flhealth.gov. Individuals can also follow the Department of Health in Marion County on Twitter at www.twitter.com/FLHealthMarion for the latest updates on COVID-19 in Marion.