health and science

Gov. Ron DeSantis has not ordered a statewide mask mandate, even as coronavirus cases set new records in Florida. Some local officials have imposed their own restrictions to try to slow the spread.

A Leon County judge says the county’s mandatory mask policy can stand. It imposes civil penalties on people who don’t wear face coverings in enclosed spaces like businesses.

Leon County Commissioner Jimbo Jackson has tested positive for COVID-19. He is the first local elected official to announce catching the virus.

Florida Democratic lawmakers say the governor is downplaying the state’s rising coronavirus cases. The Florida Department of Health reported more than 7,000 new cases today.

Florida abortion rights advocates are weighing whether to challenge a new law on abortion signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis. It requires minors to get their parent or guardian's consent before ending their pregnancy.

Friday, Florida health officials announced more than 9,000 new confirmed coronavirus cases. Experts say that number is likely on the low side, in part because not all positive test results are listed in the Department of Health’s total for each day

Governor Ron DeSantis says Florida is still in good shape despite rising coronavirus cases. He's focusing on the positivity rate—which has gone up from four to five percent in May to 12%.

The Florida Department of Health is reporting that Leon County has 775 confirmed cases of the coronavirus. The number of infected residents has been steadily rising this week, with 48 cases on Thursday and 80 cases on Friday.

After a staff member at the Bond Community Health Center's main site tested positive for the coronavirus, it will be temporarily closing.

Leon County Public Libraries are giving away masks for free after the Leon County Commission passed an ordinance requiring people to wear masks inside public buildings.