OCALA, Fla.—The Department of Health in Marion County is reporting 1,162 cumulative cases of COVID-19 today. This is an addition of 51 cases from yesterday, and an addition of 440 cases since July 1. Because of this substantial increase in cases, residents need to take extra care when out in the community to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

Practice social distancing, wear a mask when in public and you can’t practice social distancing, avoid large gatherings and stay home when sick. Avoid closed spaces with poor ventilation, crowded places with many others nearby, and close-contact settings, such as close-range conversation. Individuals over the age of 65 and those with underlying conditions are at risk of severe complications from COVID-19 and should avoid crowds and minimize contact outside the home.

Latest testing data

Of Marion COVID-19 tests from July 8, 13.5% were positive. The county’s cumulative positive test rate is 4.2%. The daily positivity rate for all new COVID-19 tests in Florida on July 8 was 18.3%; the state’s cumulative positive test rate is 9.9%. For more detailed information on all cases, visit https://tinyurl.com/r63wtp4 to view Florida’s COVID-19 Data and Surveillance Dashboard.

For more information

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. You 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.