Coronavirus Variant

Recent research suggests that the virus is mutating to better dodge immune defenses. KHN examines what public health officials believe is on the horizon and how best to fight the disease.

During the week of March 18-24, the state had 8,774 reported cases. The total the previous week was 8,049. The state now issues reports every two weeks.

University of Miami researchers have been tracking SARS-CoV-2 variants through genomic sequencing. The effort's leader says: “We are now mirroring the national trends."

In Florida, only half of fully vaccinated nursing home residents have gotten the booster for COVID. When you add unvaccinated residents into the mix, just 41% are boosted.

While the governor said the treatments are "not 100%," he added that they should still be made available.

The FDA says therapies from Regeneron and Eli Lilly should no longer be used because they don't work against omicron. Gov. Ron DeSantis says the action will "cost some Americans their lives."

Omicron has exploded in schools across the Tampa Bay region this year and some local high school students say their district isn't doing enough to notify them of possible exposure.

At the VA — the nation's largest health care system — dozens of hospitals have had to implement "contingency standards" since the omicron wave began.

She said getting vaccinated, receiving a booster shot and wearing a mask is the best way parade-goers can stay safe during the festivities.

In December, UF researchers predicted the omicron wave would reach its peak in February, but with the recent surge they’re now predicting the variant will peak within the next two weeks in the state.

Florida Education Association president Andrew Spar says a "massive exodus" of teachers is contributing to the shortage.

The president and CEO of Visit Florida said the agency will continue to expand its marketing efforts and encourage tourists to vacation in Florida this winter.