Flagler County’s first-ever virtual press conference this afternoon illustrated the extent of local efforts and cooperation in battling the coronavirus emergency. But it also revealed the fissures between the state’s patchwork approach to stay-at-home orders and local officials’ desire for more. And it underscored a persistent lack of sufficient testing that would enable health officials to conduct the sort of broader surveillance testing that would enable them to better grasp the true extent of infections locally. As of today, the county had conducted a meter 178 tests, with 13 positive, because it doesn’t have the means to do more.
Gov. Ron DeSantis issued the first enforceable stay-at-home orders today in Florida, but they apply only to residents in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe Counties, where 59 percent of Florida’s 5,500 cases are concentrated. The order continues the governor’s limited, gradual approach to enforcing stricter control measures intended to slow the spread of coronavirus, which had claimed the lives of 63 Floridians as of Monday, and nearly 3,000 Americans.
Jonathan Lord, Flagler County’s emergency management chief, is not enthusiastic about the patchwork approach.
“There’s limited value in ad-hoc community-by-community stay-at-home orders but much greater value in regional or statewide orders,” Lord said today during the county’s first virtual news conference on Copvid-19, as he stood at a podium at the county’s Emergency Operations Center. “A lot of it is being driven by the growth rate statewide. I think if we keep seeking exponential growth, I don’t know that his governor and his leadership will have a choice at this point in time.”
The only enforceable orders in Flagler County apply to people who go to the beach or stay in a short-term rental, or to restaurants that violate the carry-out-only orders or bars, pubs and gym that open at all. Otherwise, the local recommendations are just that–recommendations: Palm Coast has asked all residents to stay in place when possible, and the county has asked all people 65 and over to do so. But there is no measure of effectiveness in place. Lord said traffic is down, and observations around town today suggest that traffic is perhaps about 50 to 60 percent its normal volume, but traffic is not a measure of social distancing’s applicability, Lord said.
“We are well aware that all of these restrictions are having direct economic impacts on our businesses and workforce,” Lord said, “and are working with our partners to share available local, state and federal resources to those impacted.” He reiterated the importance of social distancing, saying stricter measures would follow if those were not respected. ‘
Florida’s and the nation’ infection numbers continue to skyrocket, with over 150,000 testing positive across the country–almost twice China’s total. Just 181 Flagler residents have been tested, 15 of them testing positive as of Monday evening. In the state, 56,700 residents have been tested, most of them in South Florida.
Bob Snyder, who heads Flagler County’s health department and who appeared alongside Lord at this afternoon’s news conference, urged residents to practice “social distancing to the extreme,” but offered contradictory next steps.
“The next weapon in our fight is testing, testing and testing, to determine the extent of community spread and the action required,” he said. But he acknowledged that that’s not possible: Right now Flagler is not capable of conducting the sort of testing that determines the extent of community spread. It is limited to diagnostic testing of those who come in with already-developed symptoms of 100.4 fever, cough, shortness of breath, who are hospitalized, in a nursing home or a long-term care priority. Priority is also given to first responders, including police, EMS personnel, public health and other health workers, and people who have underlying conditions. The department is limiting testing because of the national shortage on kits.
“Surveillance testing is the end goal. Right now we are still focused on diagnostic testing because of the shortage, still, of testing re-agents and the collection sample kits,” Snyder said. “But we are very, very excited about hearing about Abbot labs who are producing 50,000 test kits a day, and it takes 15 minutes for the test results to surface. We would be interested as soon as possible to start some kind of more broad-based surveillance testing. We look forward to that day.”
Any timeline about that day? “No,” Snyder said. “We don’t have a timeline.”
The Food and Drug Administration on Friday gave emergency authorization to Abbot Labs, an Illinois-based company, to manufacture what it calls “ID Now Covid-19” tests, which provide positive tests in five minutes, and negative tests in 13 minutes, according to the company.
“So Flagler County residents, our goal still remains the same,” Snyder said today. “To stifle the virus spread from person to person. There are two realistic paths to achieve this population level immunity. One path is the vaccine, which experts say is a year or more away. The other path is for the disease to work its way through the population, and for those who are positive for Covid-19, to recover, and become immune–a teflon status, so to speak.” (That of course is assuming the patient isn’t in the 13 percent group that requires hospitalization and the 1.5 percent, going by Florida’s rate, that dies.)
Snyder said “at this time the state has adequate numbers of ICU beds, and this is the case locally, at AdventHealth Palm Coast hospital,” he said.
Also appearing from remote sites at today’s press conference were County Commission Chairman Dave Sullivan, County Administrator Jerry Cameron, who appeared to be speaking from his office at the Government Services Building, and Sheriff Rick Staly. “We must do the social distancing we must comply with these orders,” Staly said, reiterating his preference that people voluntarily comply rather than face the possibility of a notice to appear. He noted that in emergency situations such as hurricanes, curfews have a 99 percent compliance rate. But he said he was not suggesting that similar orders should be in place now.
This afternoon the county enacted two emergency orders that mirror state orders regarding vacation rentals and travelers from hot spots. Emergency Order 2020-03 reiterates the statewide isolation order, and additionally requires any lodging facility to maintain a report of individuals occupying a room in their facility from those areas. Lodging facilities must also provide the report under oath when requested by Florida Health, Flagler County, or law enforcement. The lodging facility must provide all guests from those areas a copy of the order, and when they receive reservation inquiries from those areas, they must inform them of the order.
While vacation rental operations are suspended, the order does not include long-term rentals, hotels, motels, inns, resorts, time shares, or non-transient public lodging facilities. Violations may be reported to the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation at 866-532-1440.
Louisiana joins New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut as areas of substantial community spread of COVID-19. Individuals entering Florida from these areas must do the following: self-quarantine for a period of 14 days from entry; and, notify people in Florida with whom they have had contact with in the last 21 days that they traveled from an area of substantial community spread.
Sullivan appeared in person, from the EOC. “Normally I wouldn’t be here but I just signed another seven-day extension for our local emergency for the coronavirus,” Sullivan said, before commending the county’s team of emergency management and health officials, first responders and others in the trenches, “doing their job in spite of the dangers that they face, and they’re doing it willingly and without question.” He said he was practicing social distancing, living by himself as he does since his wife’s passing in late 2018.
“Please, this is a war, and we’re all soldiers in this war, and our job as a soldier right now is to practice social distancing,” Sullivan said. “That’s the only real benefit we have for sure that will work right now, so it’s important we keep the county safe, as it is being kept safe by our team.”
See earlier updates: “Flagler Cases Rise to 13, Including 17-Year-Old Girl; Florida’s Near 5,500; Social Distancing Extended To May 1.”
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Gary R says
This is the longest something made in China has ever lasted.
Pogo says
@Accuracy – just like honesty – is a real thing
timeline of chinese history
https://www.google.com/search?-b-1-d&q=timeline+of+chinese+history
Think, no matter how much it hurts.
Pissed in PC says
FlaglerLive I watched on Zoom which should have been made on all local tv channels but you asked the wrong question. You should have asked how many tests does the county currently have in stock for it’s 110k residents. Also so many loopholes with the resorts, long term rentals, timeshares, hotels, motels and inns. All these people are in the stores shopping for groceries. This county is a ticking time bomb and our health director sounds just like the talking head in Tallahassee. I trust more of what Gov. Cuomo says than he does.
FlaglerLive says
We’ve known and reported the number of tests the department had as of last week: 100.
Concerned says
And out of those 100 how many citizens wear actually tested?not counting police under 65 or city officials under 65?
JT says
PIPC, you are correct, loopholes galore allowing Resorts et al to remain open,,,their ‘imported customers’ mingle with the resident population, businesses and their employees.
We are seeing the true colors of these businesses who choose commercial ‘profits’ before safety of the Community, their paying members. Clearly, the business model can’t serve 2 masters. The choice has been made….Like it or not……
So, the next time these groups want exceptions to development codes, other favors…I hope our local politicians and residents have lasting memories to the true intention$ of these groups in our Community.
Jack Howell says
During the 9/11 attacks, Americans were terrified to leave their homes for days after the attacks. Many witnessed firsthand the horror of that day. Or had loved ones who died on that day. Folks, some of still don’t get it! Our country is at war with a deadly pathogen. In a biological attack and subsequent outbreaks upon the public, the enemy is not seen as the enemy was on 9/11. Let’s look at this from another perspective. Our country is facing a life and death crisis of COVID-19. It is very real as the death count grows daily. As a Palm Coast City Councilman, you need to know that the government at all levels is seeking cooperation from the citizenry to shelter in place, self-isolate and to practice social distancing. Keeping in mind that for the most part, this is a common-sense lifesaving request. We saw pictures in the media of “Spring Breakers” on the beaches here in Florida and California blatantly ignoring this request. Subsequently, governors, county and local officials have closed the beaches to the public. The beaches in Flagler county were closed on last Monday. Yet, there are people who feel that this does not apply to them because they have a home on the beach. Flagler County has decreed that if they are on the beach they can be arrested (Second Degree misdemeanor). So, the bottom line is that there are citizens who are selfish and will push the boundaries of liberty. For those of you not following our guidance your, self-indulgent selfishness may very well cause your death or somebody else’s. Is that what you want? These are thoughts to think about. Don’t be a horses ass and do the right thing!
Whathehck? says
Thank you for your wise comments. You can’t fix stupid but you are right stupid can kill us.
A inside view says
Although we are on the right path as of late by restricting those traveling from “hot zones” I must inform that as an employee at a local resort we are still open and checking in new reservations everyday. Those reservations are people that live within the state seeking an out to lock downs in their counties. Such as Miami-Dade County, Orange County, and many others. We have also allowed multiple reservations from up north in without pre screening those individuals before entering our building. How is a resort or hotel expected to enforce a 14 day quarantine to these reservations? Honestly the governor as well as our local county commissioner should look into shutting down resorts and hotels. This will make people really think twice about booking a “getaway” as advertised just yesterday by this resort. Hotels and resorts have been able to slide by regulations and operate as usual because they have become a after thought. This being said the gym and spa are still open to resort guests to use as well as the pool facilities. Someone has to bring this attention to these establishments. If we are functioning as we are in our quaint little town then imagine the rest of Florida and other hotels are getting by the rules. This is not only promoting travel within the state but also is a gross display of greed at the cost of the staff and members health.
Jt says
Agree , ask all your hospitality buddies and close IT partners to comply…..and they say?
Save Palm Coast says
You can’t make this stuff up ——-
Hammock Beach golf club held a golf outing today for Marsh Creek golfers, from St Augustine – 10 miles from here ….45 of them. Their course was closed due to Covid-19 – and Hammock Beach golf club had a Covid-19 case. ?????
Incompetence, unprofessional, or just stupidity – where are our community leaders. – hiding behind money.
Steve Ward says
Its a Hoax We have it totally under control, theres 15 cases and by next week it will be one. It will disappear like a miracle, on Easter we will pray it away, dont worryI know more than anyone about this. Its just a hunch, tbe cure may be worse than the cause, The Markets will rebound but 250000 people will die. Sacrifice yourself or your Grandma for my RE Election , whats it matter. DEATH or Money
Fredrick says
So not to jump ahead to far…. what happens at shelters should “insert your preferred deity here” forbid, if we have a hurricane headed this way? Can we plan not to spread out the sand piles so we can all social distance while filling sandbags….
BMW says
Thank you to those who are working diligently to keep our community ahead of this silent invader. We are so fortunate to have the calm and steady hand of Mr. Snyder to keep things into perspective. This is a time when everyone truly needs to display personal responsibility and not engage in risky behavior.
Jt says
Sorry, he’s not standing up to big business and closing loopholes. Mr. Snyder is just another official adhering to Fla. directives, trapped in the tourism “we invest , create minimum paying jobs” for the Community….just let us stay open. Resident impacts are collateral damage.
Will this County charade ever end?
Meanwhile , District 2 commissioner is cutting ribbons , signing leases leading to extensive legal taxpayer costs…..
Gh321 says
First time I have been on this site and thrilled to finally see some local people speaking intelligently about this emergency. We have been listening to endless briefings of how it is getting better. We have now been educated to the reality. We are still failing to stay home!!! Americans need to face the truth the hospitals dont have the protective gear. We dont even have tests to tell us where the virus is. How many deaths have to happen before this is reality for people. I worked in WTC and it was chaos but authorities came together and took control. We have been hearing it’s like the flu, we are going to get back to work, we are great, it’s going to disappear. This isnt going away and we are all in danger unless we strictly adhere to this stay home order. Thank you for these comments before me, it eases my anxiety to see people moved to comment and call out local leaders.
fearful of carry-outs says
Just wonder if the Health Dept. has issued and is enforcing testing, gloves, and masks for the food service employees preparing the carry-outs. It seems that would have been a top priority. If not, that would be a big risk for transmission of the virus.
Gary R says
Can Coronavirus Be Transmitted Through Food? Here’s What You Should Know. As of now, there’s no evidence of COVID-19 transmission through food. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/coronavirus-food-what-to-know_l_5e600d6bc5b644545ea4913b
Seems people forgot how to use Google.
fearful of carry-out says
Has Bob Snyder/local health dept. ordered testing of and mandated gloves and masks for the food service employees preparing and serving the carry-out foods? As a former HD Sanitarian in WV. that should be a #1 priority to eliminate spread of the virus.
mjberg32137 says
Love how all the officials to include Sheriff Staly encourages everyone to stay at home and respect the rules. Sherriff Staly, you may want to start with your own, your deputies, to include a supervisor, were seen on a pontoon boat on the inlet, 12 people on that boat, and heading to Matanzas inlet to have a get together with other off-duty deputies. They were very vocal on what they were doing, no shame or concerns, total disregard for the rules and guidance. They should be leading by example, not by the typical cop attitude “do as I say” “not as I do”, just flash the badge.
Facts says
All Public Lodging Establishments need to be shut down immediately. They should remain closed thru April. In addition all golf events should be shut down. Once again The Club at Hammock Beach held a golf event for 40 golfers from Marsh Creek. The Club is not being proactive. There is no way to monitor all 18 holes making sure that these groups are not gathering on the course, at the range prior to the event or after.
When is the clubs owners and management going to take this pandemic seriously? Marsh Creek golf operations where closed due to the COVID-19 virus. In addition their members where told to stay at home. But instead of delaying their golf tournament they decided to come to Flagler County. How do we know if one or more are COVID-19 carriers?
This is a very serious health concern for all. When are our county officials going to be proactive? Do you really need the governor’s permission? Your Emergency Director should advise you to suspend all public lodging operations in the month of April and close all golf events.
Concerned Citizen says
The longer we take to do the right thing the longer the consequences. will last. And things will turn even uglier than they are now.
For those who continue to complain about Hammock Beach on here.
Call your commisioners and call the CDC. Light up their phones and demand action. It’s an election year. They will listen Call the Attorney General and demand an investigation for criminal neglect. I bet that will perk up some ears.
@ Our BOCC
Do the right thing before it’s to late.
susan says
We want the news to say Flagler county has the least # of cases according to WESH news reports but it doesn’t include the fact that Flagler county is testing no one. How many test have we run? How many test do we have? This in my opinion is a act of terrorism at its finest. And we want to be upset with Trump calling it the China Virus. Have you seen local broad cast from Italy that are now going after China for war crimes due to Covid 19. I believe this virus was intentional and the numbers we see on the news are false because we have tested just a minority of the residents of Florida.
Bob Ziolkowski says
I can walk on A1A but not on the beach, a few hundred feet away – does that make sense? Please allow those that can walk to the beach walk on the beach, or at least have the deputies leave single walkers or couples alone. During these times a walk on the beach for me, and many others, helps clear the head and allows us to exercise at a tranquil location.
Pissed in PC says
Why you ask? Because if some people are given an inch they take a mile. It’s a sad state when people feel so self entitled that they have to endanger the lives of others cause of their selfishness.
Bob Ziolkowski says
So everyone should be penalized? Entitled?! I paid more for my condo since it is on the ocean and the taxes are reflect that as well. If deputies feel the need to enforce being on the beach break up groups of people and not the single walkers, or couples for that matter, which is all I usually see on the beach as it it where I live.
Pissed in PC says
See there goes the self entitled by saying you paid more for your condo on the beach because your taxes reflect that. SMDH that you feel you’re better than others and should be able to walk the beach like the county owes you that for your tax money.
Bob Ziolkowski says
You are absolutely wrong as that is not what I meant. You mentioned entitled and implied that since I can walk there easily, not me; however, in my response to you I did mention that I have and continue to pay more for being able to. All I said was that I should be able to walk on the beach, and everyone else that can get there by walking, and not parking on people’s lawns. If I am not endangering anyone by walking on A1A I will not endanger anyone walking on the beach. By the way, St. Johns County is getting a lot of feedback from people who live on and near the beach who are saying the same thing I am, and the County is reconsidering the beach closure since they agree with those people. It seems that people who never walk the beach are the ones complaining the most about the people who do!
Pissed in PC says
Thank you for clarifying that up but the point is if people see you out walking then they will say well hey can’t I just sit on the beach, fish, let my kids play in the sand and surf? You see where that is going? If they let am handful do it then many will want to be out there. Just be patient and ride this out. I’d love to sit on the beach or picnic tables but I’ll respect what the county has decided till this virus is under control.
Cichocki says
I lived on the water on Marco Island. You are also being taxed for the view, sunsets, rises, etc. No one can do what they are told to, even in an epidemic. It’s all about entitlement! Grow up and enjoy your view, open the wi dows for the breeze!
Bob Ziolkowski says
All this talk about entitlement is silly – people must be watching too much MSNBC. I will never feel guilty about living on the beach since I worked for what I have and I am surely not saving my money for someone else. And no matter what it is still silly to close the beaches and there is no argument in the world that will change my mind. I agree with all of the other restrictions but again, if I can legally walk on A1A I should be able to legally walk on the beach. I am done commenting.
KKsays says
I can understand closing the “ocean” and not having life guards on duty. The very elements of their life-saving procedures could easily turn into life-threatening situations for them and others. But I don’t see why walking on the beach or even standing on the shoreline fishing should be any different than walking around one’s neighborhood and waving at the neighbors from a safe distance.