Broward County put under two-week curfew after seeing 10,000 coronavirus cases over a week
After seeing more than 10,000 new novel coronavirus cases in the last week, Broward County has implemented new restrictions and a curfew that will last until August.
On Friday, Broward County Administrator Bertha Henry issued a new emergency order that brings a host of new restrictions and closings to the county.
Since July 10, Broward has seen 10,208 new cases, according to data from the Florida Department of Health. The county says over the last week, the positivity rates have been as high as 16.58% and hospitals are either at or exceeding ICU bed capacity.
“It is important for residents and businesses to understand the role they play in reducing these alarming statistics, by following reopening guidelines and requirements for social distancing and wearing facial coverings,” the county said in a statement.
As of Wednesday, the county has issued 57 citations and 768 warnings for COVID-19 safety violations.
Starting Friday, the county will be put under a curfew from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. The curfew will stay in place until Aug. 1. The only ones exempt from the curfew are:
▪ Active duty first responders
▪ News media
▪ Delivery or transportation drivers
▪ Government employees
▪ Health care and utility service personnel
▪ Those going to and from work
▪ People walking their pets within 250 feet of their home
Effective immediately, private gatherings are limited to no more than 10 people. If more people are in attendance, they are subject to civil and criminal penalties, along with the owners of the property.
The order also says selling food or drinks from a bar is now prohibited. Restaurants must not exceed 50 percent capacity and customers have to maintain 6 feet social distancing.
Customers can dine inside, unlike in Miami-Dade, where Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez prohibited indoor dining in the beginning of July due to a surge of COVID-19 cases in the county. In Miami-Dade, restaurant service is limited to pickup or delivery or outside dining.
And restaurant customers have to order and eat at a table. Also, anyone going to a gym or fitness center will have to wear a facial covering at all times, including when exercising.
Starting on July 20 through Aug. 20, vacation rentals are ordered to close unless it is actively managed by on-site owners or management and has staffing or security 24 hours a day to enforce virus safety guidelines.
“Individuals in our community have a personal responsibility to adhere to the guidelines and do their part to help prevent the spread of COVID-19,” the county said.
Meanwhile, on Friday, Miami Beach City Manager Jimmy Morales enacted a new 8 p.m. curfew, to go into effect Saturday, in the South Beach entertainment district.
This story was originally published July 17, 2020 at 5:19 PM.
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