Coronavirus live updates: Here’s what to know in South Florida on August 18
We’re keeping track of the latest news regarding the coronavirus in South Florida and around the state. Check back for updates throughout the day.
Florida sees 3,838 coronavirus cases and more than 200 deaths, pushing toll past 9,700
1:40.: Florida’s Department of Health on Tuesday confirmed 3,838 additional cases of COVID-19, bringing the state’s known total to 579,932. There were also 219 Florida resident deaths announced, bringing the resident death toll to 9,758.
There were no new non-resident deaths announced, leaving the non-resident toll at 135.
Read the full story here.
Do I need to wear a mask when I vote? Can I still turn in my vote-by-mail ballot?
11:20 a.m.: If you haven’t voted by mail already or cast a ballot at an early-voting center, Tuesday is your day. Voters in Miami-Dade and Broward will decide who will fill some important roles, including Miami-Dade’s mayor, Broward’s supervisor of elections and School Board seats in both counties.
If you plan to vote in this primary, you will want to take note of keeping safe at the precinct amid the pandemic.
And yes, there are rules.
For one, it doesn’t matter whom you’re voting for or which precinct you go to, all voters must wear a mask covering their mouth and nose at all times. Gloves are optional.
Remember, masks are the law in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. And if you break it, you can be fined.
Read the full story here.
Do temperature checks really work for detecting coronavirus? Here’s what experts say
9:25 a.m.: Temperature screenings may seem like a fast, easy and relatively cheap COVID-19 safety measure — they’ve been adopted by schools, airlines, hospitals and others to check for coronavirus — but experts say they just aren’t very effective.
The method is too inaccurate and too unreliable, Dr. Anthony Fauci recently said during an event with the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, so he no longer bothers with it.
CATCH UP TO START THE DAY
9:20 a.m.: Here are the coronavirus headlines to catch you up on what’s happening around South Florida and the state as Tuesday begins.
▪ Florida adds 2,678 coronavirus cases, the lowest reported since June
▪ More toxic hand sanitizer recalls (at Dollar Tree, Family Dollar) and Do Not Use updates
▪ Blaise Matuidi says bout with COVID-19 led to his decision to join Inter Miami
This story was originally published August 18, 2020 at 9:47 AM with the headline "Coronavirus live updates: Here’s what to know in South Florida on August 18."
