What is Coronavirus?
A respiratory illness that has spread since December 2019. There is little-known about the virus. It has potential to cause severe illness and pneumonia in some people, especially people over age 60 or people with pre-existing conditions.
How Does it Spread?
- Air: by coughing and sneezing
- Touch: by touching a surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes
- Contact: by close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
What Are the Symptoms?
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Mild to severe illness
How Can I Prevent Getting (COVID-19)?
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home while you are sick and avoid close contact with others.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing and sneezing.
HCSO Cancellations, Closures and Suspensions
Cancellations
- All HCSO sponsored community events until further notice
Closures
- Pre-employment testing center is closed until further notice.
Suspensions
- All execution of evictions and non-enforceable process are no longer being accepted or served by HCSO civil process
- until: April 20, 2020
- All non-essential training, to include the Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act (LEOSA) H.R. 218 Qualifications until further notice.
Safer-At-Home Order
- Plant City
- Tampa
- Temple Terrace
When Does it Go into Effect?
It is effective as of 10:00 p.m. on March 27, 2020. It is in place until it is canceled by the Emergency Policy Group.
Residents do not require a pass or a letter to show to authorities. Safer-at-Home means all residents are directed to stay at home as much as possible twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, except in specific circumstances.
What Can You Do?
The Order directs you to remain at home whenever possible. However, there are many exceptions to the Safer-at-Home Order such as:- Go to the grocery, convenience or warehouse store
- Commute to and from work if your employer is an essential business or has ensured you can maintain at least 6 feet from your co-workers or customers
- Go to the pharmacy or other medical establishments to pick up medications and other healthcare necessities
- Go to medical appointments (but first, check with your doctor or medical provider)
- Go to a restaurant for take-out or drive-thru
- Care for or support a friend or family member in need
- Take a walk, run, or exercise outside - just remember to practice social distancing -- that means at least 6 feet between you and others in the community
- Walk your pets or take them to the vet
- Take your child where they need to go if its directed by a custody sharing agreement or order
Safer-at-Home Order Detailed Information
For a complete list of details and information visit the Hillsborough County Emergency Management Safer-At-Home information page or view the official Safer-At-Home Order document.