Coronavirus/ COVID19 News and Information

Coronavirus Update

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The Florida Department of Health in Alachua County (DOH-Alachua) is informing residents that it is imperative for any individuals who believe they may have been exposed to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) to contact the Alachua County Health Department at 352-225-4181 during regular business hours or at 352-334-7900 after hours, before traveling to any physician's office, emergency department, hospital, or urgent care center. This is to ensure proper protective measures are taken to prevent further risk of spread to others.

Learn more about COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) from the Florida Department of Health and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).​


The City of Newberry is currently monitoring the status of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Alachua County is prepared to manage cases and suspected cases should they occur. Citizens who have questions or concerns about Coronavirus can call the Florida Dept. of Health Emergency Call Center which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1 (866) 779-6121 or email your questions to COVID-19@flhealth.gov

Community Coronavirus Relief Fund

We are committed to standing with our community and supporting those impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak in their time of need. Together, we will overcome this pandemic by making sure the most vulnerable among us are protected. Therefore we've established the Coronavirus Community Relief Fund and are asking for donations from our community. Your generosity will help local families and people in need to access critical services like food, utility service, and more. The City of Newberry is committed to matching every dollar donated up to $5,000. Donate using PayPal (click here) or by calling us at 352-472-2161
 

Community Resource Portal

Alachua County has established a Community Resource Portal for requesting or offering assistance, asking questions, reporting people and businesses that are not following the Emergency Orders and appealing the Unessential Business designation. The site contains many useful tools and links. It is a work in progress and will be updated and improved daily. Click here to enter the portal.


About COVID-19

The CDC is responding to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel (new) coronavirus that was first detected in China and which has now been detected in 60 locations internationally, including in the United States. The virus has been named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes has been named “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”).​ ​

Prevent Illness

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Protect yourself and your community from COVID-19

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and stay home when you are sick.

For more information on how you can protect yourself, please visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/prevention-treatment.html

Watch for Symptoms

Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed COVID-19 cases.

The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of Breath

For more information on the symptoms you should watch out for, please visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/symptoms.html  

What to do if you are sick

Call your doctor: If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms of respiratory illness, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider immediately.

For more information on how you can prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you are sick, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/steps-when-sick.html


 

Situation Updates

CDC Situation Summary Risk Assessment
Cases in the U.S. Cases in Florida

Business Resources

Business Damage Assessment Survey Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loan Assistance