OCALA, Fla.—Marion County is reporting 10,345 cumulative cases of COVID-19 as of this afternoon. This is an increase of 44 cases from yesterday (Oct.15). Of Marion COVID-19 tests from Oct.15, 3.92% were positive; the county’s cumulative positive test rate is 13%. The daily positivity rate for all new COVID-19 tests in Florida on Oct. 15 was 4.38%; the state’s cumulative positive test rate is 13.17%.

From COVID-19 cases reported Oct. 10 to 16, Marion saw an average of:

• 34.7 new cases per day
• 2.6 COVID-19 related deaths per day
• 4.7% daily positivity rate

From cases reported Oct. 1 to 16, Marion saw an average of:

• 35.7 new cases per day
• 2.8 COVID-19 related deaths per day
• 4.6% daily positivity rate

Testing availability next week

The Department of Health will not be offering testing at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion next week (Oct. 18-24). The department will, however, continue to provide COVID-19 testing for K-12 students and staff at its Ocala office (1801 SE 32nd Ave.) Testing is by appointment only and is for individuals who are experiencing symptoms.

Other community agencies offering testing locally include:

• Heart of Florida Health Center
• Langley Health Services
• Local urgent/express care facilities
• Some primary care providers
• Some pharmacies

If you are interested in testing by a specific facility, please contact that agency in advance (before visiting the facility) to let them know you would like to be tested for COVID-19. Each site may have its own procedures for testing.