The State Department of Health has confirmed the first case of the COVID-19 variant in Florida that was first found in the U.K.. The patient is a 20 year old man from Martin County with no travel history. The variant has also been found in Colorado and California.

Florida saw a record increase in new cases Thursday with 17,192, now with over 1.32 total cases and 21,673 Florida residents dead from the virus. COVID-19 vaccinations have just begun in Florida with 211,165 vaccinated as of Wednesday. If you have questions on who is eligible to receive the vaccination and where to sign up check with the Florida Department of Health here.

The COVID-19 Call Center is available 24/7 by calling 1-866-779-6121. You can also reach them by email at covid-19@flhealth.gov. Email responses will be sent during call center hours. BayCare is offering rapid result tests at nine Urgent Care Centers for asymptomatic individuals. This is one you’ll have to pay for up front at $150 and can make an online appointment for on the BayCare web site. The newest locations for free, drive through shots are at five Hillsborough County school locations which will require a reservation. You can take care of that by calling 813-307-8085 Monday through Friday from 8-5 pm. Other Free COVID-19 tests are available in Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough counties. For more please check in with us daily here.

Cox Media Group