Marion County health officials are reporting a drop in new COVID-19 cases for a third consecutive week.
During the week of Friday, January 28 to Thursday, February 3, the county reported 2,621 positive COVID-19 cases, an average of just under 375 cases each day. The updated statistics were released as part of the Florida Department of Health weekly COVID-19 situation report.
The number of positive cases has continued to decrease following the record-high spike that the county experienced during the second week of January.
“We can breathe a little bit easier because the trend in new cases is certainly going in the right direction,” said Florida Department of Health in Marion County Administrator Mark Lander.
Vaccines were administered to 311 residents, a decrease of nearly 200 from the previous week. The report shows that 63% of eligible residents, or 223,905, are currently vaccinated in Marion County. All residents ages 5 and older are considered eligible.
“Our community still must remain vigilant about using good protective practices to try to reduce the spread, because the virus remains highly transmissible. Wash your hands frequently, stay home if you get sick, and consider a COVID-19 vaccine if you have not received one already, or a booster, if you are eligible. Vaccines continue to be an effective tool against serious illness or hospitalization from COVID-19,” said Lander.
COVID-19 vaccines for anyone ages 5 and older are available for free at the Florida Department of Health in Marion County. Visit the Florida Department of Health in Marion County COVID-19 vaccines webpage to make an appointment.
The Florida Department of Health in Marion County provides vaccinations Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at its main office located at 1801 SE 32nd Avenue in Ocala.
Anyone who has questions about vaccines, whether for themselves or their children, should consult with their health care provider.
In addition to the Florida Department of Health in Marion County, vaccines are available throughout the county at many pharmacies, doctor’s offices, clinics, and health centers. For more information on vaccines, or to find a vaccine location, visit the Florida Department of Health COVID-19 vaccine locator webpage.
For more information on last week’s COVID-19 figures, visit the Florida Department of Health COVID-19 webpage.