Daytona Beach, FL - Volusia County beaches are open with only a social distancing restriction after all others were lifted on Saturday (May 2). Beach Safety Director Ray Manchester said during today's COVID-19 Update Press Conference that more people at the beach made for more rescues with close to 100 people needing a little help.
Manchester said the County opened up two coastal parks, Lighthouse Point Park and Smyrna Dunes Park but public restrooms remained closed. He said his department is looking at all options and are working towards being fully open and operational soon. With the great weather this weekend and the lifting of restrictions, the crowds were large, as was expected. "For the most part, beachgoers spaced out and kept groups small. The heaviest crowds were near large, off-beach parking lots and hotels that have reopened. Over the weekend we issued over 900 warnings in reference to social distancing." He said that may sound like a lot but with the number of people at the beach, this is to be expected.
Florida Department of Health Volusia Director Patricia Boswell shared the good news that out of the 514 people who tested positive for COVID-19 131 are no longer being monitored. On a more somber note, there have been 85 hospitalizations and 26 deaths to date. Fifteen of the deaths happened in long-term care facilities.
Boswell said as we enter into phase one, social distancing is still essential. "These measures are working and we need to continue to prevent transmission from accelarating again. Remember, the general guidance for everyone includes: frequent handwashing, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, cover your cough, clean and disinfect frequently." She said they continue to identify, test, and isolate people at high risk of infection. People living in long-term care facilities are particularly vulnerable. "We're part of a multi-agency response to prevent outbreaks. This week, a team from Region 5 is planning to visit 13 facilities and next week 18 facilities."
Tuesday morning's Volusia County Council meeting begins at 10 a.m. Council members continue to meet in a virtual meeting format in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. They are expected to approve the eighth extension of the State of Local Emergency, which will expire on May 12, 2020.
