Florida Keys Vacation amid Corona virus

Florida Keys Vacation amid Corona virus – Here's What You Need to Know

The only good news that would put a smile on the residents of Florida Keys is that there ain’t confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Keys. This has been confirmed by Bob Eadie, the health officer and administrator for the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County. Should you plan a Florida Keys vacation? Read on to know!

If you are already in Florida and wish to drive down south to the Keys, you will still be discouraged to do that. However, the official Florida Keys site states, “There are no advisories discouraging travel to the Florida Keys.” Only travelers from foreign countries, particularly affected countries, including Europe, Ireland, and the United Kingdom, are prohibited to travel to America. Yes, the federal officials have imposed travel restrictions on these countries beginning late Monday.

State Emergency Declared by Monroe Country, Keys Municipalities

A local state of emergency has been imposed for the Florida Keys by Monroe Country due to the presence of novel coronavirus in the Sunshine State of Florida. Other Keys have followed the county’s lead. The county has partnered with the lead agency to closely monitor the outbreak and highlight, update, and communicate information regarding the present outburst in the area.

Bob said, "Remember 80 percent of people who will be exposed to COVID-19 will experience mild to no symptoms. Just because you are not feeling well, does not mean you have COVID-19. Please follow all of the recommended precautions and if you are not feeling well, consult your medical provider before going in." The local police will disperse the crowd if there is “gathering on County property of 10 or more people”. It further scaled down non-essential operations and urged people to work from home (who can do) and maintain 6 ft. social distance. The vulnerable population should strictly follow the update and stay safe.

Rules for Museums, Beaches, and Parks

Certain rules have been imposed by the County to ensure locals, as well as visitors, are safe. Though the county-owned beaches, parks, and playgrounds are open, the Authority ensures these places are sanitized. “Law enforcement is doing regular patrolling of all areas.” People must follow all the directives imposed by the State.

Key West’s Mallory Square, which is the heart of the entire Florida Keys, will remain shut especially during the traditional Sunset Celebration hours, Smathers Beach, and the Southernmost Point. Since it is something travelers from far and wide come for, the “closures will be re-evaluated on a daily basis”. Other prominent attractions including the Key West Lighthouse, Custom House Museum, Fort East Martello, and Tennessee Williams Museum will remain shut until 01 April.

Restrictions on Bars, Restaurants, and Nightclubs

Key West has directed all nightclubs and bars to cease operation by 5 pm. Moreover, restaurant facilities and amenities have been shortened and limited to deliver and take out only. On-site dining will not be entertained until notified.

Coronavirus Advice/ Caution

If you have traveled to some international destination or cruised within a period of last 14 days, you are advised to get in touch with your health care provider immediately. For travelers experiencing shortness of breath, cough, or fever should rush to the hospital right away.

Should you Travel to Florida during COVID-19 - Learn More

Traveling to Florida – Visitor Information

  • This is definitely not the best time to visit Florida. Even locals are advised to stop traveling unless it is an emergency.
  • Florida receives more than 4 million travelers every year. The Florida Authority understands the importance of tourism and its role in strengthening the country’s economy
  • Practice good hygiene like clean hands regularly, stop shaking hands, disinfect surfaces, stop touching faces, etc.
  • Handle food carefully
  • Stay home if possible
  • Be careful with traveling and meeting
  • Take extra care of elderly people and those with underlying health issues like heart problems, hypertension, diabetes, etc.

Travelers if staying at Florida vacation rentals will be much on the safer side. These are private mansions (unlike hotels), hence refrain outsiders to interrupt. Make sure the surfaces, such as counters, handrails, and doorknobs are well-sanitized. Ask your rental owners to provide hand sanitizer if you run out of it.

Travel Safe, Stay Safe!

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