Coronavirus and COVID-19 - A Notice from City of Lakeland Emergency Manager, Audrey J. Cain:
LAKELAND, FL (March 3, 2020) | Updated March 12, 2020, 11:44 a.m.As new cases of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) are identified, the City of Lakeland Emergency Management, a Division of the Lakeland Fire Department, continues to monitor the spread of the virus. As of yesterday, there were two presumptive cases in the State of Florida and officials are awaiting confirmation from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Please take necessary precautions, by following the CDC on their website, cdc.gov/covid19, and social media (@CDC) for up-to-date information and remain aware of the situation.
It is important to know the symptoms of COVID-19, which is similar to the common cold or flu. Symptoms include the following: runny nose, cough, sore throat, headache, fever, shortness of breath and feeling generally unwell.
COVID-19 spreads by the touch of an infected person or surface and occasionally through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. The Florida Department of Health (DOH) recommends washing your hands frequently and that everyone practice good hygiene by covering coughs and frequently cleaning surfaces such as doorknobs and phones.
Avoid sharing personal household items, such as dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or clothing with other people.
As always, avoid close contact with those who may be sick and if you are sick, we encourage you to stay home to prevent the spread of illness and contact your health care provider.
Again, for the best available information regarding COVID-19, please visit the CDC’s website at cdc.gov/covid19.
We will continue to keep you informed as information is provided.
*NEW* For more info, maps, and City of Lakeland-related COVID-19 updates, bookmark our Emergency Management page.
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About Lakeland
The City of Lakeland was incorporated in January 1885 and has grown to become one of the largest inland communities in Florida. With a current population of over 100,000, Lakeland continues to grow. It has been designated a Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area by the US Census Bureau for over 30 years. With tourist attractions and gulf beaches only an hour away, Lakeland continues to capitalize on its ideal central Florida location along the I-4 corridor. The City owns and operates Lakeland Electric, the third-largest publicly owned utility in Florida and it was one of the first to offer power in the Sunshine State over 110 years ago.
For additional information about the City of Lakeland, please explore lakelandgov.net.
Citizens are also invited to follow the City on social media.