Tampa launches revamped website to share coronavirus updates and tips
Jane Castor is blasted for her ‘unavailability’ to civil rights orgs. Image via Kim DeFalco.

Jane Castor
The website includes up-to-date information on the virus.

The city of Tampa on Wednesday launched a revamped landing page on its website addressing local coronavirus issues and providing up to date information about the virus.

The city is populating messages on the website with information from local, state and federal agencies including the Florida Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization.

As more information becomes available regarding the impact of the coronavirus in Tampa, the city plans to update the site to keep residents informed.

“The safety of our residents is our number one priority,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. “We want to make it as easy as possible for our residents to find the information that they need to stay safe and stay informed. Tampa is currently at a low-risk level for coronavirus, but this outbreak is still evolving every day and we can’t be complacent. We all have to do our part to prevent the spread of germs and protect ourselves so that we can protect the most vulnerable members of our community.”

The city also has information resources available to provide real-time text alerts related to the outbreak. Residents can text TAMPAREADY or TAMPALISTA to 888-777 for text updates related to COVID-19 or other emergencies.

The update comes after the World Health Organization upgraded its classification of the outbreak to a pandemic.

The virus has now affected 26 people in Florida including two in Hillsborough County. Two people in Florida have died.

State universities and colleges will also begin holding classes online beginning Monday to reduce the possible spread of the virus. Public K-12 schools so far have not announced any closures.

Health officials continue to remind residents that the risk to most individuals is low. A healthy young person can weather the effects of the coronavirus with minimal to moderate symptoms. The elderly and those with underlying health issues are most at-risk.

Individuals are encouraged to wash their hands frequently or use hand sanitizer when washing is not available, avoid physical contact and to stay home if they are feeling ill.

Janelle Irwin Taylor

Janelle Irwin Taylor has been a professional journalist covering local news and politics in Tampa Bay since 2003. Most recently, Janelle reported for the Tampa Bay Business Journal. She formerly served as senior reporter for WMNF News. Janelle has a lust for politics and policy. When she’s not bringing you the day’s news, you might find Janelle enjoying nature with her husband, children and two dogs. You can reach Janelle at [email protected].


One comment

  • Juan Hernandez Jr.

    March 17, 2020 at 1:39 pm

    the Blood Mobile, can be converted to test citizens for Coronavirus. They can be stationed at school parking

    Lots, also malls parking. It’s essential that his testing be done ASAP. Juan Hernandez Jr

    [email protected]

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