Coronavirus Updates | January – March 2021

Latest news is displayed first.

For resources and information on the Coronavirus, visit www.ocfl.net/Coronavirus. To watch any past news conference, visit the OrangeTV YouTube playlist.

For the most recent updates, please visit www.ocfl.net/CoronavirusUpdates.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways Orange County News Conference – 3/29/2021

For the latest COVID-19 updates, visit the Orange County Newsroom.

ADVENTHEALTH: VACCINE APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County is allocating another 3,500 doses that AdventHealth will distribute on Friday, April 2, 2021 at the pop-up site outside the Orlando International Airport.

The vaccines at this site will only be available to those 40 years and older. Appointments are required.  A sign-up link is available on www.ocfl.net/vaccine.

COVID-19 VACCINE APPOINTMENTS
All Florida residents who are age 40 and up are now eligible for the COVID vaccine at ANY vaccination site.

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County’s vaccination site is now able to handle 3,400 appointments per day. Appointments closed for today, but please stay tuned for an upcoming date and time for a new appointment portal opening. Sign up for alerts at ocfl.net/vaccine.

The medically vulnerable are also eligible for the vaccine. A medical form that is signed by your physician is required. You can find this form along with additional information on vaccines at ocfl.net/vaccine.

COUNTY REOPENING
Beginning April 5, Orange County is re-opening the County’s senior centers, gymnasiums, fitness centers and outdoor courts at a limited capacity of 50%.  For information about specific locations visit, the Senior Recreation page.

In addition, the county summer youth camps will re-open.  The county will continue to monitor regional health indicators to determine when a full re-opening will be scheduled.

The Orange County Public Works Department,  Planning, Environmental, and Development Services and the Utilities Department will re-open customer lobby areas and/or main buildings to the public.  Appointments will be required and limited face-to-face interactions.

FEMA VACCINATION SITES
The FEMA-operated vaccination hub at Valencia College West Campus (1800 S. Kirkman Road) remains open 7 days per week, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. No appointments necessary.  Please arrive early as first doses can run out by early to mid-afternoon.

Beginning today Monday, March 29, the Valencia West Campus site in Orlando will be able to administer 3,000 first doses of the Pfizer vaccine per day.

Additionally, this federally supported site will remain open for four additional weeks. This site was previously expected to close on April 28 and will now close on May 26. For more information, visit Florida Disaster’s webpage.

Additional FEMA site:
Orange County Library – South Trail Branch
 4600 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32839

• Walk-up only, no appointments needed
• Open 7 days a week
• 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.,* or until daily supply is exhausted
  *(note updated closing time)

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways Orange County News Conference – 3/25/2021

STATEWIDE VACCINE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Earlier today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that the state of Florida would lower the eligible age for COVID-19 vaccinations.

• Monday, March 29, 2021 — FL residents 40+ will be eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine
• Monday, April 5, 2021 — FL residents 18+ will be eligible to receive the vaccine

As a reminder, come Monday March 29, 2021, there will be several location options for eligible residents 40 and up to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, including the Orange County Convention Center, Federal Retail Pharmacies, FEMA Vaccination Site at Valencia College West Campus, other FEMA sites, etc.

For more information about COVID-19 vaccine efforts in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Vaccine.

APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE: CONVENTION CENTER DRIVE-THRU VACCINATION SITE
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County will reopen appointments for the Drive-Thru Vaccination Site at the Orange County Convention Center on Monday, March 29, 2021, at 9 a.m.

The site will expand its total capacity to provide 3,400 vaccinations per day. For a list of all eligible individuals, please visit ocfl.net/vaccineFAQs.

Additionally, to assist residents, Orange County Government has following resources for COVID-19 vaccination:

• A Dose of Truth: COVID-19 Vaccine Myths: What Orange County Residents Need to Know
• Frequently Asked Questions Regarding COVID-19 Vaccinations in Orange County
• Help debunk common COVID-19 vaccination myths (Video)
• What To Expect When Getting Your COVID-19 Vaccination at the Convention Center (Video)

FEMA VACCINATION HUB AT VALENCIA WEST
Earlier this week, the Florida Division of Emergency Management announced that the federally-supported vaccination sites at Valencia College West Campus will continue to administer first doses of the vaccine from March 24, 2021, through April 7, 2021. After that date, the Florida Division of Emergency Management will assess the community’s needs.

Orange County urges interested residents to arrive early to receive their vaccination, as daily capacity limits for first dose walk-ups are reached quickly.

• Valencia College West Campus (FEMA Vaccination Hub)
  1800 S Kirkman Road
  Orlando, FL 32811

7 day per week, open at 7 a.m., (or until supply is out) walk-ups only

Visit ocfl.net/Vaccine.

ADDITIONAL FEMA VACCINATION SITE

• Orange County Library South Trail Branch
  4600 S Orange Blossom Trail
  Orlando, FL 32839

7 day per week, open at 9 a.m., walk-ups only

For additional vaccinations sites in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Vaccine.

TESTING EXTENDED THROUGHOUT APRIL
Providing free testing for residents continues to be a priority for Orange County Government Health Services Department. Testing at Barnett Park runs through April 30, 2021. Residents are encouraged to get a test if they have been exposed to anyone with COVID-19. Testing is essential in helping contain the spread of the virus.

• Barnett Park (Both PCR/molecular and rapid testing)
  4801 W Colonial Drive
  Orlando, FL 32808

7 days per week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, visit ocfl.net/Testing.

ORANGECONNECTS: GET CONNECTED TO LOCAL BEHAVIORAL AND MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals have reported an increase level of stress or anxiety. It is important to be mindful of your own personal needs to ensure a safe and healthy lifestyle.

To help residents achieve this, Orange County Government has launched its OrangeConnects Program, developed by mental health experts in Orange County’s Community and Family Services Department.

The program is a confidential, free web-based navigation platform that connects residents with behavior/mental health providers in their area. The online tool will ask a short list of questions about the resident’s thoughts and feelings, and then matches them to a list of providers who specialize in supporting those needs.

Orange Connects is for any resident experiencing difficulties and can help with:

• Sadness
• Feeling anxious or stressed
• Not eating or sleeping
• Inability to focus
• Scary thoughts or dreams
• Problems with a child’s behavior
• Feeling angry
• Using drugs or alcohol too much
• Difficulty paying attention
• Difficulty getting things done
• Feeling that you don’t want to live any longer
• needing support related to your gender or sexuality
• Anything else that is bothering you

For more information, visit ocfl.net/OrangeConnects.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways Orange County News Conference – 3/22/2021

COVID-19 VACCINE APPOINTMENTS

This morning, the Orange County Convention’s vaccination site run by the Florida Department of Health in Orange County booked about 7,000 appointments in 13 minutes when appointments were open to those 40+. Please stay tuned to ocfl.net/vaccine, social media and upcoming news conferences as there will be more appointment openings in the near future that will be announced.

CANCEL UNWANTED COVID-19 VACCINE APPOINTMENTS

If you no longer need your vaccination appointments, please cancel it in order to allow others to receive the vaccine. To cancel, log into your CDR HealthPRO account at patientportalfl.com and then go to “My Vaccinations” and cancel from that screen. For assistance, call 844-770-8548.

FEMA VACCINATION SITES

Note: All FEMA sites are following the State Executive Orders on eligibility for vaccinations. For more information, visit www.ocfl.net/vaccine.

The FEMA-operated vaccination hub at Valencia College West Campus (1800 S. Kirkman Road) remains open 7 days per week, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The site will remain open indefinitely. No appointments necessary.

Temporary FEMA satellite site:

South Orange Youth Sports Complex (drive-thru)
11800 S Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL 32824

March 21-23, 2021

9 a.m.-5 p.m.

NEW FEMA SITE AT SOUTH TRAIL LIBRARY BRANCH

The Orange County Library and Orange County Office of Emergency Management are partnering with the Florida Division of Emergency Management to offer a COVID-19 vaccination site at the South Trail Library Branch. The vaccination opened Monday, March 22 for State eligible persons to be vaccinated at no cost. The site will run for six to 10 weeks, depending on vaccination supply.

Orange County Library – South Trail Branch

 4600 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32839

• Opens Monday, March 22
• Walk-up only, no appointments needed
• Open 7 days a week
• 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., or until daily supply is exhausted

Contact Tracing: An Important Tool in Fighting COVID-19

Since the pandemic began, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County has been helping slow the spread of COVID-19 in the region by performing contact tracing, a critical public health strategy that involves identifying people who may have been in close contact with an individual who has COVID-19. Contact tracing lets people know they may have been exposed to the coronavirus and should monitor their health for signs and symptoms of the virus.

For more information visit the County’s newsroom.

Clerk’s Office Hosts Free Legal Forum

Orange County Clerk of Courts Tiffany Moore Russell invites you to attend a free special virtual webinar: Legal Matters Forum Series – Probate: Wills, Trusts, & Estate Planning.

What: Legal Matters Forum – Probate: Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning

When: Thursday, April 8, 2021, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the Zoom platform.

The webinar will include important information on the probate process, insights from both an attorney and a judge, and available resources. Attendees will also be able to ask the panel questions at the end of the forum.

For more information, and to register for this legal forum, visit http://bit.ly/ProbateLegalMatters.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 3/18/21

Eligibility for COVID-19 vaccinations at the Drive-Thru Vaccination Site at the Orange County Convention Center has been expanded to include residents 40 years old or older starting Monday, March 22, 2021 at 9 a.m.

Right now, anyone meeting the following requirements can register for an appointment at the Convention Center from March 22 through March 27.

• Residents 60+ (residents 40-59 can register for appointments beginning Monday, March 22, 2021)
• Long-term care facility residents and staff (any age)
• Health care professionals with direct patient contact (any age)
• All educators and staff in schools/colleges/licensed day cares (any age)
• Law enforcement officers, corrections, firefighters and staff at those agencies (any age)
• Extremely medically vulnerable/high-risk
  • Resident must bring required state formsigned by a physician. Residents who are un/under-insured may visit a Primary Care Access Clinic to see a physician.

To book an appointment, or to find other vaccination options in the County, visit ocfl.net/Vaccine.

FEMA VACCINATION SITES

The FEMA-operated vaccination hub at Valencia College West Campus (1800 S. Kirkman Road) remains open 7 days per week, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The site will remain open indefinitely. No appointments necessary.

Below are the current temporary FEMA satellite locations in Orange County. No appointments necessary. Additional FEMA satellite locations will be announced once approved by the state.

Northwest Neighborhood Center (walk up)
3955 W D Judge Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
March 18 – 20, 2021
9 a.m.-5 p.m.

South Orange Youth Sports Complex (drive-thru)
11800 S Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL 32824
March 21-23, 2021
9 a.m.-5 p.m.

ORANGECONNECTS: Online Help for Mental Health Issues

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals have reported an increase level of stress or anxiety. It is important to be mindful of your own personal needs to ensure a safe and healthy lifestyle.

To help residents achieve this, Orange County Government has launched its OrangeConnects Program, developed by mental health experts in Orange County’s Community and Family Services Department.

The program is a confidential, free web-based navigation platform that connects residents with behavior/mental health providers in their area. The online tool will ask a short list of questions about the resident’s thoughts and feelings, and then matches them to a list of providers who specialize in supporting those needs.

Orange Connects is for any resident experiencing difficulties and can help with:

• Sadness
• Feeling anxious or stressed
• Not eating or sleeping
• Inability to focus
• Scary thoughts or dreams
• Problems with a child’s behavior
• Feeling angry
• Using drugs or alcohol too much
• Difficulty paying attention
• Difficulty getting things done
• Feeling that you don’t want to live any longer
• needing support related to your gender or sexuality
• Anything else that is bothering you

For more information, visit ocfl.net/OrangeConnects.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE

The Orange County Emergency Rental Assistance program continues to be available to residents.

As the program staff continues to review applications, it is important that ALL applicants review:

• Required documents
• Eligibility criteria
• Frequently asked questions

The City of Orlando is creating its own emergency rental assistance program with a funding allocation from the Federal Government. Therefore, tenants whose rental properties are located within the City of Orlando do not qualify for the County’s program. While addresses may read “Orlando, Florida,” such properties may still be located in unincorporated Orange County. To check your address, visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance.

Residents living in unincorporated Orange County, Apopka, Bay Lake, Belle Isle, Eatonville, Edgewood, Lake Buena Vista, Oakland, Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden and Winter Park are eligible for the County’s program.

EXPANDED: FREE TRANSPORTATION for 60+
Residents who are now 60 and older who do not have a way to transport themselves to the Convention Center site or the FEMA hub site (Valencia College West Campus) can dial 3-1-1 to find out how to qualify for a ride. Call takers will coordinate with the Office of Emergency Management in Orange County to find free transportation options, courtesy of LYNX.

LYNX needs at least two-day prior notice (before 5 p.m.) to schedule a ride. Since the Orange County’s Office of Emergency Management does not operate on weekends, any ride needed for a Saturday or Monday, must be made the prior Friday at the latest during regular business hours.

• To qualify for a ride to the Convention Center, the senior must be able to prove they have a valid vaccination appointment. A family member or caregiver may also ride along.
• To qualify for a ride to the FEMA site where no appointments are necessary, the senior must still give 48 hours’ notice so LYNX can prepare for the ride.

If you live outside Orange County, 3-1-1 can be accessed by dialing 407-836-3111.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 3/15/21

For the latest updates on COVID-19, visit ocfl.net/COVID19.

As of Sunday, March 14, 2021, 65 percent of Orange County residents 65+ have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, 13 percent of all Orange County residents have had at least one or more doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.

VACCINATIONS

As of today, Monday, March 15, 2021, Florida residents 60+ are eligible for vaccinations. In recent news, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said that those 55+ would be eligible at some point in March. Visit ocfl.net/Vaccine for expanded eligibility information.

EXPANDED ELIGIBILITY FOR ALL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES

In a letter to the state, Mayor Demings requested that all who serve in law enforcement, corrections and fire departments be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at the Orange County Convention Center – not just sworn officers. This expansion was granted by the state for the Convention Center vaccination site run by the Florida Department of Health in Orange County.

Eligibility at the Orange County Convention Center COVID-19 vaccination site now includes:

• Persons 60+
• Law enforcement officers, corrections, firefighters and staff at those agencies (any age)
• Long-term care facility residents and staff (any age)
• Health care professions with direct patient contact (any age)
• Educators and staff in schools/colleges/licensed day cares (any age)
• Extremely medically vulnerable/high-risk (
  • Resident must bring required state form signed by a physician. Residents who are un/under-insured may visit a Primary Care Access Clinic to see a physician.

More information is available at ocfl.net/vaccine.

ADVENTHEALTH OPENING

AdventHealth and Orange County are announcing another COVID-19 vaccine opportunity for Central Florida seniors. The vaccines will be distributed Friday, March 19, 2021, at AdventHealth’s community vaccination site near Orlando International Airport.

More than 3,500 doses are being supplied by the Florida Department of Health in Orange County. The vaccines at this site will only be available to those 60 years and older who are eligible under state and federal guidelines.

Appointments are required. A sign-up link will be available on Orange County’s webpage at ocfl.net/Vaccine.

FEMA SITES

The FEMA-operated vaccination hub at Valencia College West Campus (1800 S. Kirkman Road) remains open 7 days per week, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The site will remain open indefinitely. No appointments necessary.

The below temporary FEMA satellite location remains open until Wednesday March 17, 2021, for walk-up service only. Additional FEMA satellite locations will be announced once approved by the state.

South Econ Park (Gymnasium)
3850 South Econlockatchee Trail, Orlando, FL 32829
March 14-17, 2021
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In addition, for a 10-week period, the Florida Department of Emergency Management will be at the Orange County Public Library’s South Trail Branch for walk-up COVID-19 vaccinations for eligible residents. The opening date for this library site will be announced soon. Details and operational hours will be forthcoming at ocfl.net/vaccine.

I GOT VACCINATED FACEBOOK FRAME

If you have received the COVID-19 vaccine, Orange County Government encourages you to add the “I GOT MY COVID-19 Vaccine!” Facebook Frame to your profile photo.

How to:

1. Go to your Facebook profile
2. Click the camera icon next to your profile photo
3. Click “Add Frame”
4. Search for: “Orange County, FL – I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine!”
   1. For Spanish, please search “Orange County, FL -¡Ya me vacuné contra el COVID-19! – Spanish”
5. Reposition as needed
6. Click “Use as Profile Picture”

Orange County Clerk’s Office: PASSPORTS

The Orange County Clerk of Courts office is extending hours at three branch locations during the month of March to make it easier to apply for a passport.

Ocoee, Apopka and Winter Park branches will be open later until 6 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays through Thursday, April 1, 2021. Because of the pandemic, passport-processing times may take up to 12 weeks, so applying for one now will ensure customers receive their passport in time.

Go to MyOrangeClerk.com/Passports for more details about locations, fees, and required documents.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 3/11/21

For the latest updates on COVID-19, visit the County’s newsroom and stay up-to-date at ocfl.net/COVID19.

EXPANDED ELIGIBILITY FOR VACCINES
Eligibility at all COVID-19 vaccination sites in Orange County now include:

• Persons 60+ (beginning Monday, March 15)
• Long-term care facility residents and staff (any age)
• Health care professions with direct patient contact (any age)
• All educators and staff in schools/colleges/licensed day cares (any age)
• Sworn law enforcement officers and firefighters (any age)
• Extremely medically vulnerable/high-risk (must bring required state form, signed by a physician)

More information at ocfl.net/vaccine.

VACCINATION SITES

• Orange County Convention Center (Dept. of Health in Orange County site)
  • The Orange County Convention Center’s COVID-19 vaccination site run by the Florida Department of Health in Orange County has online appointments available. The Department of Health is opening more appointments for next week (the week of March 15). The webpage will be updated with the 60+ criteria beginning Friday, March 12.
• Federal Vaccination Site at Valencia College West Campus (FEMA)
  • The FEMA-operated vaccination hub at Valencia College West Campus (1800 S. Kirkman Rd.) remains open 7 days per week, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The site will remain open indefinitely. No appointments necessary.

The following temporary FEMA satellite locations are operating this week and a walk-up only:

• 3-Day Event:
  Barnett Park (Gymnasium)
  4801 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808
  March 11 – 13, 2021, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• 4-Day Event:South Econ Park (Gymnasium)
  3850 South Econlockhatchee Trail, Orlando, FL 32829
  March 14 – 17, 2021, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In addition, beginning Saturday, March 13, 2021 for a 10-week period, the Florida Department of Emergency Management will be at the Orange County Public Library’s South Trail Branch for walk-up COVID-19 vaccinations for eligible individuals.

Orange County Public Library South Trail Branch
4600 S. Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando, FL 32839

Details and operational hours will be forthcoming at ocfl.net/vaccine.

Visit ocfl.net/vaccine for more information.

TRANSPORTATION HELP
Residents who are 65 and older who do not have a way to transport themselves to the Convention Center site or the FEMA site (Valencia College West Campus) can call 3-1-1 to find out how to qualify for a ride. 3-1-1 will coordinate with the Office of Emergency Management in Orange County to find free transportation options, courtesy of LYNX.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE
The Orange County Emergency Rental Assistance program continues to be available to residents. For more information, visit Orange County’s newsroom to read its press release or visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance.

CAREERSOURCE CENTRAL FLORIDA’S HELP IS HERE PROGRAM
170 Orange County residents impacted by COVID-19 recently completed Valencia College’s Accelerated Skills Training programs, funded by local Orange CARES dollars, that took place at the Orange County Convention Center. Residents received this training at no cost plus a weekly stipend through CareerSource Central Florida’s “Help is Here” Program. Many who completed these training programs have now received full-time employment in various industries including IT, healthcare and trade & logistics. For more information, visit CareerSource Central Florida’s webpage at CareerSourceCentralFlorida.com/HelpIsHere.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 3/8/21

For the latest updates on COVID-19, visit the County’s newsroom and stay up-to-date at ocfl.net/COVID19.

VACCINE OPTIONS IN ORANGE COUNTY EXPAND

The Orange County Convention Center’s vaccination site run by the Department of Health in Orange County has online appointment availability. The site is now open to the medically vulnerable. Extremely vulnerable individuals must be designated by a physician, and bring the state required form. You can find the required state form at ocfl.net/vaccine.

Eligibility at all Orange County vaccination sites now include:

• Persons 65+ (must be a Florida resident or part-time resident)
• Long-term care facility residents and staff (any age)
• Health care professions with direct patient contact (any age)
• All educators and staff in schools/colleges/licensed day cares (any age)
• Sworn law enforcement officers and firefighters (any age)
• Extremely medically vulnerable/high-risk (any age – must have required state form)
• Orange County Convention Center (Dept. of Health in Orange County site)

Appointments only (and currently available)

• Retail Pharmacies
• Federal Vaccination Site at Valencia College West Campus (FEMA) & FEMA Vaccination Satellite Sites

No appointments needed, walk-up

• Orlando VA HealthCare System
• Veterans who receive care at VA regardless of age

In addition, hospital systems may vaccinate eligible residents depending on available supply. For more detailed information visit ocfl.net/Vaccine.

FEMA VACCINATION SITES

The FEMA-operated vaccination hub at Valencia College West Campus (1800 S. Kirkman Rd.) remains open 7 days per week, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The site will remain open indefinitely.

The following temporary satellite location is operating this week:

Kelly Park (No appointments necessary, drive-thru location)

Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL 32712
March 7 – 10, 2021, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Visit ocfl.net/vaccine for more information.

TESTING STILL A PRIORITY

Providing free testing for residents continues to be a priority for Orange County Government Health Services Department. Testing at Barnett Park runs through March 31, 2021. Residents are encouraged to get a test if they have been exposed to anyone with COVID-19 and/or as a precaution for traveling before or after Spring Break. Testing is essential in helping contain the spread of the virus.

Drive-thru location:

Barnett Park (Both PCR/molecular and rapid testing)
4801 W Colonial Dr., Orlando
7 day per week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, visit ocfl.net/Testing.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE

The Orange County Emergency Rental Assistance program continues to be available to residents.

As the program staff continues to review applications, it is important that ALL applicants review:

• Required documents
• Eligibility criteria
• Frequently asked questions

The City of Orlando is creating its own emergency rental assistance program with a funding allocation from the Federal Government. Therefore, tenants whose rental properties are located within the City of Orlando’s city limits do not qualify for the County’s program. While addresses may read “Orlando, Florida,” such properties may still be located in unincorporated Orange County. To check your address, visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance.

Residents living in unincorporated Orange County, Apopka, Bay Lake, Belle Isle, Eatonville, Edgewood, Lake Buena Vista, Oakland, Ocoee, Windermere, Winter Garden and Winter Park are eligible for the County’s program.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 3/4/21

For the latest updates on COVID-19, visit the County’s newsroom and stay up-to-date at ocfl.net/vaccine.

Vaccination appointments are still available at the Orange County Convention Center. Visit ocfl.net/vaccine for appointment information.

EXPANDED ELIGIBILITY FOR VACCINES
All providers administering any COVID-19 vaccine are now able to vaccinate the following population:

• Persons 65+
• Long-term care facility residents and staff
• Health care professions with direct patient contact
• K-12 school employees who are 50+
• Sworn law enforcement officers and firefighters who are 50+

In addition, as a directive from President Biden, all states will open up vaccination edibility to all educators and school staff, regardless of age. Governor DeSantis will issue an Executive Order soon and some pharmacies are now administering to all teachers.

EXTREMELY MEDICALLY VULNERABLE

• In addition, select pharmacies, hospital providers and licensed physicians may vaccinate persons deemed to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. Individuals must have a state documentation form by a physician. That official documentation can be found at ocfl.net/vaccine.
• Those deemed extremely medically vulnerable are able to be vaccinated at FEMA sites and at pharmacies operating under the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program for administering the vaccine.

FEMA VACCINATION SITES
FEMA opened its vaccination hub site at Valencia College West campus. The site will remain open indefinitely. Details:

Valencia College – West College (main location)
1800 S. Kirkman Road, Orlando, FL 32811

7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Open 7 days per week
Pre-registration highly encouraged

Two temporary satellite FEMA locations are open the following dates:

Engelwood Neighborhood Center (temporary satellite location)
6123 La Costa Drive, Orlando, FL 32807
March 3-6, 2021, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

No appointments necessary

Kelly Park (temporary satellite location)
400 E Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL 32712

Offering appointments beginning March 7-10, 2021, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

No appointments necessary, drive-thru location

Visit ocfl.net/vaccine for details.

EXPANDED: FREE TRANSPORTATION
Residents who are 65 and older who do not have a way to transport themselves to the Convention Center site or the FEMA site can call 3-1-1 to find out how to qualify for a ride. 3-1-1 will coordinate with the Office of Emergency Management in Orange County to find free transportation options, courtesy of LYNX.

LYNX needs at least two-day prior notice (before 5 p.m.) to schedule a ride. Since the Orange County’s Office of Emergency Management does not operate on weekends, any ride needed for a Saturday or Monday, must be made the prior Friday at the latest during regular business hours.

To qualify for a ride to the Convention Center, the senior must be able to prove they have a valid vaccination appointment. A family member or caregiver may also ride along.

To qualify for a ride to the FEMA site where no appointments are necessary, the senior must still give 48 hours’ notice so LNYX can prepare for the ride.

If you live outside Orange County, 3-1-1 can be accessed by calling 407-836-3111.

For more information, visit ocfl.net/net.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Orange County’s Emergency Rental Assistance program has $33 million of federal funds to support residents who are at-risk of eviction due to COVID-19 financial hardships.

The application portal remains open until the money is depleted. You can save your application and come back to it later if you don’t all the information or required documents. Please thoroughly read the webpage at ocfl.net/RentalAssistance as many applications have missing and incomplete information.

VACCINATION HELP: DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH HIRING
Due to the increased availability of the vaccine, The Florida Department of Health in Orange County is hiring nurses and support staff. Be part of the vaccination efforts in our community. Submit an application at the Department of Health’s webpage.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 3/1/21

For the latest updates on COVID-19, visit the County’s newsroom and stay up-to-date at ocfl.net/vaccine.

Visit www.ocfl.net/COVID19SnapShot for the latest stats in Orange County.  Our 14-day rolling positivity rate keeps going down – it is now 5.49%. Just four days ago, it was 6.1%.

As of this afternoon, vaccination appointments are still available at the Orange County Convention Center. Visit ocfl.net/vaccination for appointment information.

VACCINE DISTRIBUTION: EXPANDED ELIGIBILITY

Earlier this afternoon, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 21-47, which expands eligibility criteria for COVID-19 vaccinations. The Order takes effect on Wednesday, March 3, 2021.

All providers administering any COVID-19 vaccine are able to vaccinate the following population:

• Persons 65+
• Long-term care facility residents and staff
• Health care professions with direct patient contact
• K-12 school employees who are 50+
• Sworn law enforcement officers and firefighters who are 50+

In addition, select pharmacies, hospital providers and licensed physicians may vaccinate persons deemed to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. Individuals must have documentation by a physician that the patient meets the criteria.

The full Executive Order can be viewed at www.flgov.com. For vaccination options, visit www.ocfl.net/vaccination.

FEMA VACCINATION SITES

On Wednesday, March 3, 2021, FEMA will open its vaccination hub site at Valencia College West. The site will open 7 days a week, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., administering approx. 2,000 vaccine each day. FEMA has also approved two satellite locations in Orange County that will administer up to 500 vaccines each day.

Valencia College – West College (Hub location)

1800 S. Kirkman Road, Orlando, FL 32811

Offering appointments beginning March 3, 2021, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Open 7 days per week

Engelwood Neighborhood Center (temporary satellite location)
6123 La Costa Drive, Orlando, FL 32807
Offering appointments beginning March 3-7, 2021, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Walk-ins welcome

Kelly Park (temporary satellite location)
400 E Kelly Park Road, Apopka, FL 32712

Offering appointments beginning March 7-10, 2021, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Walk-ins welcome

Individuals can pre-register for vaccine appointments and be notified when appointments are available in their area by visiting MyVaccine.FL.gov, or by calling the State’s Orange County Vaccination Helpline Line at 833-959-0222.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Orange County’s Emergency Rental Assistance program launched this morning, March 1, 2021, at 10 a.m. As of this afternoon:

• More than 8,000 individuals accessed the program’s information online
• 939 tenants and landlords logged into the application portal
• 369 applications were completed.

The program is investing $33 million dollars of federal funds to support residents who are at risk of eviction due to financial hardships related to COVID-19. Residents who are interested in the program are urged to review all criteria and program details, as some residents may not be eligible due to income or physical addresses located within the City of Orlando limits.

It is Orange County’s hope that this program will assist our most vulnerable residents and their landlords to keep families in their homes.

For program information or to apply, visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance.

TESTING

Free testing continues 7 days per week at Barnett Park and at the Orange County Convention Center. The Barnett site is run by Orange County Health Services Department and the Convention Center is one of the state’s regional testing sites. Visit ocfl.net/testing for details.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 2/25/21

For the latest updates on COVID-19, visit the County’s newsroom and stay up-to-date at ocfl.net/vaccine.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Information about Orange County’s COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance program is now available online. The program will be available to residents starting Monday, March 1, 2021. The online application portal will open at 10 a.m.

The income-based program will assist Orange County’s most vulnerable tenants who are at risk of eviction due to COVID-19. The program will distribute more than $33 million of federal funds to assist eligible Orange County residents.

• Residents must be at least one month past due on rent
• BOTH the landlord and tenant must agree to participate and meet the eligibility requirements
• Applicants MUST have proof of COVID-19 impact and other documentation
• Funds are limited
• Application process is “First Come, First Ready.” So make sure to have ALL your documents in order.

It is important to note that this program is available to residents located in Orange County, except for residents who live in the City of Orlando. Residents within this area may qualify for the City of Orlando’s program when it opens. Residents can check if their address is eligible for the Orange County program by vising ocfl.net/RentalAssistance.

Residents who are interested in applying for the Emergency Rental Assistance program are encouraged to gather all required documents needed to apply and speak to their landlord, in preparation for the portal opening. For more information, visit ocfl.net/RentalAssistance or dial 3-1-1.

CONVENTION CENTER: COVID-19 VACCINE APPOINTMENTS REOPEN ON MONDAY
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County will reopen online appointments for COVID-19 vaccinations at the Orange County Convention Center to qualifying 65+ residents on Monday, March 1, 2021, at 9 a.m.

Know before you go:

• Convention Center vaccination site is only available for full time or part-time Florida residents
• Residents must be 65+
• Bring your square QR code and your Florida ID, driver’s license or utility bill to demonstrate that you live in the State of Florida
• Cancel any unneeded appointments so other residents have the opportunity to receive the vaccine
• Do not show up at the vaccination site without an appointment.

Visit ocfl.net/Vaccine for registration information and to review frequently asked questions.

For registration questions or help, contact 844-770-8548 or e-mail COVID19Support@cdrmaguire.com.

ADVENTHEALTH: LIMITED COVID-19 VACCINE APPOINTMENTS OPEN
AdventHealth and Orange County Government are announcing another COVID-19 vaccine opportunity for Central Florida seniors.

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County has supplied more than 3,500 doses. The vaccines will be distributed by appointment only on Friday, March 5, 2021, at AdventHealth’s community vaccination site near Orlando International Airport.

The vaccines at this site will only be available to those 65 years and older who are eligible under state and federal guidelines. Residents can sign up for the vaccine by going to ocfl.net/Vaccine.

LYNX, UBER, LYFT
 The Orange County Convention Center vaccination site is a hub of activity with many moving vehicles and staff. If you are using ride-share transportation services, please remind the drivers that you will need to remain in the vehicle through the entire vaccination process including the entire 15-minute wait time once you receive the vaccination.

Seniors who already have a  confirmed appointment and do not have a means of transportation to the Orange County Convention Center vaccination site may dial 3-1-1 or 407-836-3111 to coordinate with LYNX for a possible free transportation option.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 2/22/21

For the latest updates on COVID-19, visit the County’s newsroom and stay up-to-date at ocfl.net/vaccine

BARNETT PARK EXTENDS TESTING THROUGHOUT MARCH

Orange County Government’s Health Services will continue to offer FREE drive-thru COVID- 19 testing at Barnett Park through the end of March, seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Both rapid and PCR tests are offered. Due to high demand for testing, entrance to the site may close prior to 5 p.m. in order to accommodate all cars in line. Please plan to be in the vehicle waiting line prior to noon. Families who are being tested are asked to be in the same vehicle together. For more information, visit ocfl.net/Testing and click on #1 on the map.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

The Orange County Emergency Rental Assistance program will open on Monday, March 1, 2021.

The program is income-based and is aimed at helping Orange County’s most vulnerable tenants who are in imminent danger of eviction due to the COVID-19 pandemic. More information about this program will be available soon, including a comprehensive list of eligibility requirements.

For more information, visit ocfl.net/EmergencyRentalAssistance.

TRANSPORTATION FOR SENIORS CONTINUES

Seniors who are unable to find transportation to the Orange County Convention Center vaccination site may be able to qualify for a free ride, thanks to LYNX.

Eligible residents must:

• Be 65+ and older
• Have already obtained an appointment for a vaccine at the Orange County Convention Center
• Not have a way to transport themselves to the Convention Center

If you meet these criteria, call the County’s helpline at 311 (or 407-836-3111 if out of county) for details and coordination. For more information, visit Orange County’s newsroom.

Scheduling transportation for appointments needs to be made 48 hours in advance of your scheduled appointment.

This is for the Convention Center vaccination site only.  LYNX can transport qualified seniors from Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties to the Convention Center site.

CANCEL UNWANTED COVID-19 VACCINE APPOINTMENTS

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County urges residents who no longer need their vaccination appointments to cancel them. To cancel, log into your CDR HealthPRO account at patientportalfl.com and then go to “My Vaccinations” and cancel from that screen. For assistance, call 844-770-8548.

For future appointment openings, visit ocfl.net/Vaccine to register your email or sign up for text alerts. Also, review our frequently asked questions.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 2/18/21

For the latest updates on COVID-19 resources, visit ocfl.net/COVID19. Additionally, residents can stay up-to-date on vaccine efforts throughout the county by visiting ocfl.net/vaccine. Currently, 7.6 percent of Orange County residents (111,966 individuals) have received their first dose of the vaccination.

COVID-19 VACCINE APPOINTMENTS REOPEN ON MONDAY

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County will reopen online appointments for COVID-19 vaccinations at the Orange County Convention Center to qualifying 65+ residents on Monday, February 22, 2021, at 9 a.m.

The Convention Center vaccination site is only available for full time or part-time Florida residents. Individuals who show up without a vaccination appointment will be turned away.

Some helpful resources:

• What To Expect When Getting Your COVID-19 Vaccination
• COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions
• COVID-19 Vaccine Myths vs Facts

Visit ocfl.net/Vaccine for registration information and to review frequently asked questions. For registration questions or help, contact 844-770-8548 or e-mail COVID19Support@cdrmaguire.com.

COVID-19 EVICTION DIVERSION PROGRAM: CLOSES TOMORROW

Orange County’s COVID-19 Eviction Diversion Program will close on Friday, Feb. 19 at 6 p.m. Applications will still be processed after Feb. 19, but no new applications will be accepted past this deadline. For more information, visit ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion. The County’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program is slated to launch March 1. For more information, visit ocfl.net/ERA.

Additional information to know:

The Center of Disease Control’s (CDC) Order to stop landlords from evicting eligible tenants has been extended through March 31, 2021. Residents in danger of eviction, must act by signing the CDC Declaration Form and deliver it to their landlord. For more information, visit ocfl.net/HousingFAQs.

VACCINATONS FOR HEALTH CARE WORKERS

In partnership with Orange County Government, AdventHealth recently offered 3,500 vaccination appointments to health care workers. All appointments have been booked for Feb. 19, 2020. For future availability for health care vaccinations, sign up at www.ocfl.net/vaccine and you can also sign up for alerts from AdventHealth at CoronavirusVaccineAlerts.com.

TRAVELERS’ INFORMATION

The CDC has created the COVID-19 Travel Planner to help travelers search for COVID-19 restrictions and guidance in the state, local, territorial and tribal communities they plan to visit.

The CDC estimates that roughly 15 percent of site visitors are searching for guidance in Florida. The goal of the online tool is to provide travelers with information to make informed decisions, protect themselves, and reduce transmission before, during, and after they travel.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 2/15/21

For the latest updates on COVID-19, visit the ocfl.net/vaccine.

VACCINATIONS

The vaccination appointment portal for the Orange County Convention Center opened today at 9 a.m. In total, 6,800 vaccination appointments were booked, and the portal closed at 9:45 a.m.

There is not a specified date yet for when the appointment portal will re-open. However, sign up for alerts at ocfl.net/vaccine in order to be notified when an opening date is announced. To date, over 75,000 vaccinations have been provided at the Orange County Convention Center.

The Federal Retail Pharmacy Program has various participating pharmacies including Publix, Sam’s Club, and Walmart.  Information about locations and scheduling at a local retail pharmacy is available on Orange County’s vaccination webpage. Also, review our frequently asked questions.

SENIORS WITH TRANSPORTATION CHALLENGES

Seniors who have a vaccination appointment scheduled at the Orange County Convention Center and cannot find transportation, please contact the County’s helpline at 3-1-1 to arrange a free ride from LYNX. Scheduling transportation for appointments needs to be made 48 hours in advance of your scheduled appointment.  

This is for the Convention Center vaccination site only.  For more information, visit Orange County’s newsroom.

COVID-19 EVICTION DIVERSION PROGRAM: CLOSES FRIDAY

Orange County’s COVID-19 Eviction Diversion Program will close on Friday, Feb. 19 at 6 p.m. Applications will still be processed after Feb. 19, but no new applications will be accepted past this deadline. For more information, visit ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion.

Since the program’s launch in late August 2020, the Eviction Diversion Program has provided over $11 million dollars in assistance and helped over 3,600 individuals and families stay in their homes.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: Opens March 1, 2021

Orange County is closing the Eviction Diversion Program to new applications in order to finish processing all the applications for the launch of Orange County Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which is slated to launch March 1. The new Emergency Rental Program has more than $33 million in federal funds to help with rent assistance for predominantly low-income and qualified residents.

Program details for the new Orange County Emergency Rental Assistance Program will be posted at ocfl.net/EmergencyRentalAssistance.

VACCINE: MYTHS VS FACTS

As more COVID-19 vaccination sites open, it is important for everyone to know all the facts about the vaccine. We must all be wary of false and potentially harmful misinformation on the Internet or hearsay from gossip. Visit ocfl.net/VaccineMyths  to view a list of top vaccine myths.

The myths vs. facts are also available in Spanish at ocfl.net/MitosSobreLaVacuna.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 2/11/21

COVID-19 VACCINE APPOINTMENTS REOPEN ON MONDAY
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County will reopen online appointments with limited availability for COVID-19 vaccinations at the Orange County Convention Center to qualifying 65+ residents on Monday, February 15, 2021, at 9 a.m.

Know before you go:

• Convention Center vaccination site is only available for full time or part-time Florida residents
• Residents must be 65+
• Bring your square QR code and your Florida ID, driver’s license or utility bill to demonstrate that you live in the State of Florida
• Cancel any unneeded appointments so other residents have the opportunity to receive the vaccine
• Do not show up at the vaccination site without an appointment.

Visit ocfl.net/Vaccine for registration information and to review frequently asked questions.

For registration questions or help, contact 844-770-8548 or e-mail COVID19Support@cdrmaguire.com.

SENIORS WITH TRANSPORTATION CHALLENGES
Seniors who are unable to find transportation to the Orange County Convention Center vaccination site may be able to qualify for a free ride, thanks to LYNX.

Eligible residents must:

• Be 65+ and older
• Have already obtained an appointment for a vaccine at the Orange County Convention Center
• Not have a way to transport themselves to the Convention Center

If you meet these criteria, call the County’s helpline at 311 (or 407-836-3111 if out of county) for details and coordination. For more information, visit Orange County’s newsroom.

Scheduling transportation for appointments needs to be made 48 hours in advance of your scheduled appointment.

This is for the Convention Center vaccination site only.  LYNX can transport qualified seniors from Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties to the Convention Center site.

VACCINE: MYTHS VS FACTS
As more COVID-19 vaccination sites open, it is important for everyone to know all the facts about the vaccine. We must all be wary of false and potentially harmful misinformation on the Internet or hearsay from gossip. Visit ocfl.net/VaccineMyths to view a list of top vaccine myths.

For the latest updates on COVID-19, visit ocfl.net/COVID-19. To stay up-to-date on vaccine efforts in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/vaccine.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 2/8/21

For the latest updates on COVID-19, visit the County’s newsroom and stay up-to-date at ocfl.net/vaccine.

Over the weekend, Orange County surpassed 1,000 deaths due to COVID-19 (total 1,002 deaths). Please continue to practice pandemic precautions. Our 14-day rolling positivity rate is now 9.2%, which is down from 10.2% from last week.

CANCEL UNWANTED APPOINTMENTS

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County urges residents who no longer need their vaccination appointments to cancel them. To cancel, log into your CDR HealthPRO account at patientportalfl.com and then go to “My Vaccinations” and cancel from that screen. For assistance, call 844-770-8548.

For future appointment openings, visit ocfl.net/Vaccine to register your email or sign up for text alerts. Also, review our frequently asked questions.

CONSUMER ALERT

The Office of Attorney General advises everyone not to post your CDC Vaccination Card on social media. 

This information can be used by scammers because it has you name, birthdate and vaccination location on it, which could be used for faking identities or creating fake vaccine documents.

For more information, visit the Attorney Generals website.

COVID-19 TESTING

Orange County Health Services continues to offer free COVID testing at Barnett Park – open 7 days per week through February 28, 2021. Visit ocfl.net/testing for details.

STRIKE TEAMS

On Sunday, Orange County Strike Teams visited eight bars/restaurants and found all to be in compliance. Thank you to Orange County businesses for helping keep both customers and employees safe during the pandemic. For information about business compliance, visit www.ocfl.net/BusinessResources.

TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX COLLECTIONS

Orange County Comptroller Phil Diamond announced that Tourist Development Tax (TDT) collections received by Orange County for the December 2020 were $10,592,000. That is a 59% decrease compared to December 2019.

This is the eighth consecutive month of TDT collections increasing since hitting rock bottom in April 2020. This is a hopeful sign for the local tourism industry.

For more information, visit the Office of the Comptroller’s website to read its news release.

JURY TRIALS

Jury trials in Orange County will resume beginning Monday, February 15. Visit www.NinthCircuit.Org/jurors for reporting information.

Because of the need for social distancing, please do not bring family members on your reporting date. Be sure to request to be excused if you have a valid COVID-19 reason or qualify for one of the excusals listed on your summons.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 2/4/21

For the latest updates on COVID-19, visit ocfl.net/COVID-19 and stay up-to-date at ocfl.net/vaccine. Currently, 6.1% of Orange County residents (91,331 individuals) have received their first COVID-19 shot.

CANCEL UNWANTED APPOINTMENTS
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County urges residents who no longer need their vaccination appointments to cancel them. To cancel, log into your CDR HealthPRO account at patientportalfl.com and then go to “My Vaccinations” and cancel from that screen. For assistance, call 844-770-8548.

Cancelling unwanted appointments allows for others in the community a chance to get access to the vaccine, while also ensuring no vaccine doses are left unused.

For future appointment openings, visit ocfl.net/Vaccine to register your email or sign up for text alerts. Also, review our frequently asked questions.

VACCINATIONS FOR HEALTH CARE WORKERS
Thank you to AdventHealth and its partnership with Orange County Government to offer vaccine appointments to local healthcare workers, such as local doctors and dental offices not in the immediate hospital network. The 3,500 appointments for this Saturday have all been booked. However, you can be notified when additional community vaccines become available from AdventHealth at CoronavirusVaccineAlerts.com.

FIRE RESCUE CONTINUES VACCINE OUTREACH
Since Jan. 7, Orange County Fire Rescue Department paramedics have visited more than 12 senior living communities and places of worship to provide the COVID-19 vaccine to residents who are 65+. The total number of vaccines administered by our Fire Rescue team is more than 2,675.  Teams will continue outreach in the community.

COVID-19 TESTING
Orange County Health Services free testing site at Barnett Park remains open 7 days per week through February 28, 2021. Visit ocfl.net/testing for details.

TRANSPORTATION ISSUES FOR SENIORS
Residents can apply for eligibility to the Transportation Disadvantage Program or the ADA Paratransit program through LYNX. All the prerequisites and requirements for program eligibility are on the GoLynx website. You can also contact LYNX at 407-841-LYNX (5969) or at inquiry@golynx.com.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

VACCINES STATS IN ORANGE COUNTY

• Residents who received their first dose: 84,055, which is approximately 5 percent of the County’s population
• Residents fully vaccinated (received both doses): 19,051

VACCINES FOR HEALTH CARE WORKERS
AdventHealth and Orange County Government announced a partnership initiative to provide COVID-19 vaccines to health care workers with direct patient contact. More than 3,000 doses were supplied by the Florida Department of Health in Orange County and are specifically earmarked for eligible health care workers, regardless of health system affiliation.

The vaccines will be distributed by appointment only on Saturday, Feb. 6 at AdventHealth’s community vaccination site near Orlando International Airport.

Important items to note:

• Registration is required. Visit ocfl.net/vaccine for a registration link to book an appointment.
• There is no out-of-pocket cost for receiving the vaccine
• Proof of health care employment is required upon registration

Residents can call 1-877-VIRUSHQ or visit www.coronavirusvaccinefacts.com for more information. For more information, here is AdventHealth’s news release.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO – VACCINATIONS AT THE ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER
Seniors receiving vaccines at the Orange County Convention Center are urged to arrive at the vaccination site with a full tank of gas, water, a snack and any medication if needed, as wait times may be long. Portable toilets and washing stations are located in the waiting line, as well as in the observation area after vaccinations are administered.

Residents are also asked to bring:

• Square QR code – you receive this code via email or text to confirm your appointment.
• Florida ID, driver’s license or utility bill to demonstrate that you live in the State of Florida
• COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card (if receiving your second dose)

What to Expect When Getting Your COVID-19 Vaccination

Lo Que Debe Esperar al Recibir la Vacuna COVID-19

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
A list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the vaccine has been developed by Orange County Government and the Florida Department of Health in Orange County. FAQs are constantly updated and cover topics including vaccine eligibility, scheduling an appointment and arriving at the drive-thru vaccination site.

Read more: ocfl.net/VaccineFAQ

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 1/28/21

COVID-19 VACCINE INFORMATION APPOINTMENTS REOPENING TOMORROW
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County will reopen online appointments with limited availability for COVID-19 vaccinations at the Orange County Convention Center to qualifying 65+ residents on Friday, January 29, 2021, at 8 a.m.

Remember:

• Convention Center vaccination site is only available for Florida residents
• Residents must be 65+
• Bring your square QR code and your Florida ID, driver’s license or utility bill to demonstrate that you live in the State of Florida
• Cancel any unneeded appointments so other residents have the opportunity to receive the vaccine
• Do not show up at the vaccination site without an appointment.

Visit ocfl.net/Vaccine for registration information and to review frequently asked questions.

For registration questions or help, contact 844-770-8548 or e-mail COVID19Support@cdrmaguire.com.

VIDEO: What to Expect When Getting Your COVID-19 Vaccination

https://vimeo.com/505283696

HELP FOR SENIORS – SIGNING UP: As a reminder, seniors who do not have access to the internet may visit a participating Orange County Community Center. Staff will be available to help residents book appointments. Participating centers include:

• East Orange – 12050 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32826 | 407-254-9610 (Spanish speaking representatives are available)
• Holden Heights – 1201 20th St. Orlando, FL 32805 | 407-836-6777
• Pine Hills – 6408 Jennings Road, Orlando, FL 32818 |407-254-9100
• Taft – 9450 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32824 | 407-254-1950

FREE COVID-19 TESTING
Remember:

• Orange County Convention Regional testing site is available to all residents, including any tourists.
• Orange County’s Health Services free testing site runs 7 days per week through the end of February.

Visit ocfl.net/Testing for more information.

FINAL CHANCE TO COMPLETE COMMUNITY CRIME SURVEY
The deadline to complete the Orange County’s Citizens Safety Task Force’s Community Crime Survey is Sunday, January 31, 2021. The survey will be used to gain insight from residents on solutions and strategies to prevent and reduce gun violence and violent crime. Residents can take the short survey by visiting ocfl.net/CrimeSurvey.

ROOF REPAIR
Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando & Osceola County is accepting applications for its roof repair program, funded by a grant by Orange County Government. Residents who are interest in the program may visit HabitatOrlandoOsceola.org/Repair-My-Roof.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 1/25/21

For the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/COVID19SnapShot.

COVID-19 TESTING EXTENDED

Testing has been extended through the end of February at the Orange County Health Services free testing site at Barnett Park. The site will remain open seven days per week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Feb. 28, 2021.

Visit ocfl.net/testing for details and click on #1 on the testing map.

VACCINE APPOINTMENTS
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County’s online vaccine portal for appointments has currently closed at the Orange County Convention Center to qualifying residents 65+. However, residents are encouraged to pre-register in advance on the website portal to prepare to book an appointment. The appointment portal will open again soon.

Proof of residency is required for residents. Please bring your Florida ID, driver’s license or utility bill to demonstrate that you live in the State of Florida. For more information, review the Florida Department of Health’s Public Health Advisory.

Visit ocfl.net/Vaccine for more information and to review our frequently asked questions.

For registration questions or help, contact 844-770-8548 or e-mail COVID19Support@cdrmaguire.com.

WAYS TO STAY UPDATED WHEN VACCINATION APPOINTMENTS OPEN UP

• Visit ocfl.net/vaccine
• Sign up for e-mail updates
• Download the “OCFL Alert” App
• Text OCFLCOVID to 888777 for vaccine updates

TIPS FOR PREPARING FOR VACCINATION APPOINTMENT
Residents are encouraged to do the following prior to their vaccination appointment:

• Eat something and bring snacks, if needed
• Take any daily medications
• Arrive with a full tank of gas and no more than 30 minutes prior to your appointment time.
• For residents receiving the second dose of the vaccine, please bring the CDC vaccine card with you to the appointment. Make sure to also bring your confirmation QR Code.

HELP FOR SENIORS
Orange County employees are available at four Orange County Community Action Centers to assist residents who need help registering for the vaccine.  Spanish speaking representatives are available at the East Orange Center.

• East Orange – 12050 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32826 | 407-254-9610
• Holden Heights – 1201 20^th St. Orlando, FL 32805 | 407-836-6777
• Pine Hills – 6408 Jennings Road, Orlando, FL 32818 |407-254-9100
• Taft – 9450 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32824 | 407-254-1950

Residents who have questions or need additional help may call Orange County’s 311 office.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS FOR AIR PASSENGERS ARRIVING IN THE U.S.
The CDC recently issued an Order requiring all air passengers arriving to the U.S. from a foreign country to get tested for COVID-19 no more than three days before their flight departs, and to present negative results or documentation of having recovered from COVID-19 to the airline before boarding the flight. For more information, visit the CDC’s webpage.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 1/22/21

VACCINE NUMBERS AND APPOINTMENT OPENINGS
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County will reopen online appointments with limited availability for COVID-19 vaccinations at the Orange County Convention Center to qualifying residents 65+ on Friday, January 22, 2021 at 5 p.m., Appointments will increase from serving 2,000 residents per day to 2,500 residents per day.

Effective immediately, vaccines administered at this site will only be available for Florida residents. Please bring your Florida ID, driver’s license or utility bill to demonstrate that you live in the State of Florida. For more information on this matter, review the Florida Department of Health’s Public Health Advisory.

If you are NOT a Florida resident and have already gotten your first dose at the Convention Center, the Department of Health will honor your appointment for a second dose. However, if you have not received your first dose yet and are NOT a Florida resident, you need to cancel your appointment if you have one scheduled.

Visit ocfl.net/Vaccine for registration information and to review our frequently asked questions.

For registration questions or help, contact 844-770-8548 or e-mail COVID19Support@cdrmaguire.com.

Cancel Unwanted Appointments
Residents are urged to cancel any unwanted COVID-19 vaccination appointments. Cancelling unwanted appointments allows for others in the community to schedule an appointment, while also ensuring no vaccine doses are left unused.

COVID-19 TESTING
Orange County Health Services free testing site at Barnett Park will remain open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days per week through January 30, 2021. The County is evaluating opportunities to extend Barnett site’s availability into the month of February, but no plans have been finalized as of this time.

An announcement regarding our continuation of testing will happen within the next week. Visit ocfl.net/testing for details.

For the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net./COVID19SnapShot.

EVICTION DIVERSION UPDATE
Orange County’s COVID-19 Eviction Diversion Program has helped over 3,100 individuals and families avoid eviction with providing nearly $10 million in assistance.

Orange County intends to keep the program running until there is another program available to residents for rental assistance.

Orange County was allocated $33.4 million from the US Treasury for emergency rental assistance. This is from a $25 billion federal bill for COVID-19 relief. Program details to will be shared in the next few weeks as staff finalizes program requirements with the state.

Note: The Eviction Moratorium has been extended to March 31, 2021.

CARES UPDATE
The CARES for Residents program closed and the portal will NOT re-open again.

The County approved more than $65 million to those local residents with financial burdens by COVID-19 with $1,000 grants. Approved applications are in process and all checks will be processed within the next two weeks.

THE MAYOR’S ANNUAL JOB FAIR
The 20th Annual Mayor’s Job Fair, hosted by the Central Florida Employment Council (CFEC), takes place on Wed., Jan. 27, 2021 at the Central Florida Fairgrounds Expo Park from noon to 4 p.m. The event is free for all job seekers to attend.

For more information, contact 407-834-4022 or visit, cfec.org. Employers can contact CFEC at 407-834-4223.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 1/14/20

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/COVID19SnapShot.

COVID-19 TESTING

Orange County Health Services free testing site at Barnett Park will remain open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Dr. Martin Luther King Day holiday on Mon., Jan. 18. The state regional testing site at the Convention Center will also be open on the MLK holiday. However, the vaccination site at the Orange County Convention Center will be closed that day. Visit ocfl.net/testing for details.

VACCINE NUMBERS

Approximately 3.1 percent of Orange County’s population has been vaccinated, totaling 54,461 Orange County residents.

The Dept. of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) website for scheduling an appointment for the COVID-19 vaccine has reached capacity and is temporarily paused.

Visit ocfl.net/Vaccine to learn more and how to stay informed as well as other vaccine site availabilities.

VACCINES FOR VETERANS

The Orlando VA is holding COVID-19 vaccination appointments on Sat., Jan. 16  and Monday, Jan. 18, 2021 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Orlando VA Medical Center at Lake Nona located at 13800 Veterans Way for qualified Veterans based on certain guidelines. Veterans must be enrolled to receive care from the VA, be 75 or older and there is no cost to get the vaccine.

Veterans may visit the Orlando VA webpage for information and updates.

CANCEL UNWANTED VACCINE APPOINTMENTS

The Florida Department of Health in Orange County urges residents to cancel any unwanted COVID-19 vaccination appointments at its Orange County Convention Center vaccine site. Cancelling unwanted appointments allows availability for others in the community to schedule their shots, while also ensuring no vaccine doses are left unused.

If you need to cancel your COVID-19 vaccination appointment at the Convention Center, login to your CDR HealthPRO account at patientportalfl.com, then click on “My Vaccination” and cancel from that screen.

For questions, contact 844-770-8548 or e-mail COVID19Support@cdrmaguire.com. Visit ocfl.net/vaccine for additional information and a list of frequently asked questions.

TRANSPORTATION TO VACCINE SITES

Currently, LYNX will transport registered ACCESS LYNX clients from their residence to a vaccination site and back.  If appropriate, the service will wait in line with the passenger, allowing the health care worker to enter the vehicle to administer the vaccine. ACCESS LYNX clients just need to schedule a reservation for a trip using their normal process. For more information on ACCESS LYNX, visit www.golynx.com.

SECOND DOSE APPOINTMENT QUESTIONS

According to the Department of Health in Orange County, individuals who receive the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine will get a confirmed scheduled appointment for a second dose. This second appointment will either be scheduled when you make your first appointment online or after receiving your first vaccination at the site.

Also, if your first shot was the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, your second shot will also be Moderna. In other words, your second dose will be the same vaccine type/brand (e.g., Moderna or Pfizer) as your first dose. The Florida Department of Health has detailed records of which vaccine will go to each individual.

AVOID VACCINATION SCAMS

The Attorney General of Florida recommends the following tips to help residents avoid COVID-19 vaccine-related scams:

• Know that anyone asking for money in exchange for an appointment is a scam
• Check with county health departments for local vaccine distribution guidelines
• Be wary of any website where pop-up ads solicit a vaccine appointment
• Look for “https” or a padlock icon in the website name to ensure that you are on a secure website
• Report suspicious solicitations or COVID-19 vaccine-related advertisements to the Attorney General’s Office by calling 1(866) 9NO-SCAM or visiting MyFloridaLegal.com.

For more tips on avoiding COVID-19 vaccine scams, visit the Attorney General’s webpage

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 1/11/20

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS

For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/COVID19SnapShot.

VACCINE UPDATES

Approximately 3 percent of Orange County’s population has been vaccinated, totaling 43,412 Orange County residents.

The Dept. of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) website for scheduling an appointment for the COVID-19 vaccine has reached capacity over the weekend and was temporarily paused by DOH-Orange. In less than 72 hours, more than 35,000 individuals scheduled their appointment. The scheduling site will open in the future when the state provides additional dosages. Visit ocfl.net/Vaccine to learn more and how to stay informed.

Other community partners providing COVID-19 vaccinations:

• True Health
• Advent Health and Orlando Health are administering COVID-19 vaccines to health care workers with direct patient contact, including health care workers in the community. Here is a list of hospitals administering COVID-19 vaccines.

Additionally, it is important to remember that COVID-19 vaccines administered by County Health Departments are always free. If a site asks for payment information, it is likely a scam and should be reported to the Florida Attorney General’s Office. Learn more about this scam.

CARES ACT FUNDING FOR ORANGE COUNTY

In spring 2020, Orange County Government received approximately $243 million in federal CARES Act funds to assist the community in recovery efforts – helping individuals, families, small businesses and more. Below are a few highlights:

Small businesses received about 30 percent of CARES Funding: 

• More than $69 million invested 
• Approximately 8,000 businesses received funding
• 65 percent of businesses that received funding were minority or women-owned businesses

Social service sand community needs received about 40 percent of CARES Funding:

• More than $84 million invested 
• More than $65 million distributed to the County’s Individuals and Families Program
• Nearly 40 direct contracts and more than $22 million distributed to local nonprofit services for childcare, job retention, homelessness, mental health and food insecurity
• $4 million was earmarked for the County’s Eviction Diversion Program 

Public Safety received about 23 percent of CARES Funding:

• More than $56 million was invested in public safety efforts
• Testing at Barnett Park
• Vaccinations at the Orange County Convention Center 
• More than 25 million face masks and 2 million hand sanitizers provided to community groups, faith-based organizations and small businesses

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 1/8/20

COVID-19 BY THE NUMBERS
On January 7, 2021, a total of 1,427 Orange County residents tested positive for COVID-19 – which represents the County’s highest single-day positive count since the beginning of the pandemic.

For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/COVID19SnapShot.

VACCINE UPDATES
Yesterday evening, the Florida Department of Health in Orange County reopened the COVID-19 vaccination scheduling website. You can schedule appointments, read frequently asked questions, and learn about the County’s vaccination efforts by visiting ocfl.net/Vaccine.

• Appointments available Monday through Saturday at the Orange County Convention Center site
• Must be 65+ years old
• Those experiencing issues with booking an appointment online can dial 305-351-9531 or email covid19support@cdrmhealth.com

To date, 35,403 Orange County residents have been vaccinated (2.9% of Orange County’s population).

CARES ACT FOR RESIDENTS
The application portal for Orange County’s CARES Act Program for Residents is closed and will not open again since funding has been allocated. Although the CARES program is complete, the program team is still processing approved applications for funds distribution with the Comptroller.

• Applicants from December 8, 2020 should have received an email with their status update earlier this week.
• Applicants from December 17, 2020 should receive an email with their status by the end of the day Monday, January 11, 2021.

The Program has processed more than $65 million of assistance for County residents.

CITIZEN SAFETY TASK FORCE – COMMUNITY CRIME SURVEY
Orange County’s Citizens Safety Task Force’s Community Crime Survey is still open. The survey will be used to gain insight from residents on solutions and strategies to prevent and reduce gun violence and violent crime. Residents can take the short survey by visiting ocfl.net/CrimeSurvey. So far, there has been more than 1,200 responses.

Organizations, faith-based leaders and neighborhoods can request paper surveys for distribution in the community by emailing CitizensSafety@ocfl.net.

Orange County Court Administration Update
There will be no jury trials and no jurors called to appear from now until at least February 15, 2021.

Effective, Monday, January 11, 2021, only employees, litigants, victims, witnesses, counsel and individuals headed to the Clerk’s offices will be admitted to the building.  No friends or family will be admitted.

Effective, Tuesday, January 19, 2021, only essential matters and other in-person hearings will be permitted.

For more information, visit ninthcircuit.org.

Watch the conference on the YouTube Video Stream or on Vimeo.

Key Takeaways: Orange County News Conference 1/6/20

VACCINE UPDATES
The Florida Department of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) will reopen its online appointments for COVID-19 vaccinations on Thursday, January 7, 2021, at 8 a.m. Appointments are available for individuals who are 65+ years old. Please make sure to read Frequently Asked Questions at ocfl.net/Vaccine.

Visit ocfl.net/Vaccine to make an appointment and additional information.

Individuals experiencing issues with booking an appointment online can dial 305-351-9531 or email covid19support@cdrmhealth.com.

For Healthcare Workers:
According to the Department of Health, hospitals are administering COVID-19 vaccines to health care workers with direct patient contact, including health care workers in the community. Hospital providers may also vaccinate individuals who they deem to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. Visit https://www.flgov.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Hospital-Locations-1.pdf for a list of hospitals administering the vaccine.

VACCINATION NUMBERS IN ORANGE COUNTY
As of yesterday, a total of 22,117 Orange County residents have been vaccinated at the at the Orange County Convention Center – that number totals 1.5% of all County residents. Of special note, 111 of the recipients have been over the age of 95.

Residents are asked to be patient with the process as the County and state work to meet the demand. DOH-Orange is working to vaccinate the largest number of people in the shortest amount of time possible.

To help meet this demand of DOH-Orange, Orange County Health Services and EMS personnel at Orange County Fire Rescue are helping staff the vaccination site at the Convention Center to allow up to 2,000 vaccination per day. The Orange County Convention Center vaccination site is now open six days per week (Monday through Saturday).

WAYS TO STAY UPDATED ON THE VACCINE

• Visit ocfl.net/vaccine
• You can download the “OCFL Alert” App
• Residents can text OCFLCOVID to 888777 for vaccine updates

Employees will be standing by at four Orange County Community Action Centers (Holden Heights, Pine Hills, East Orange and Taft) to assist residents who need to register for the vaccine.

For more information on Community Center locations, visit ocfl.net/CommunityCenters

COVID-19 NUMBERS
Orange County cases now number 82,155. Please practice three W’s – wash your hands, watch your distance and wear a face covering.

For a snapshot of the latest COVID-19 statistics in Orange County, visit ocfl.net/Covid19Snapshot. The snapshot updates Monday through Friday.

TESTING EXTENDED
Orange County Government’s Health Services Department is offering free COVID-19 testing through January 30, 2021 at Barnett Park. The testing site will continue to operate 7 days per week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, residents need to get in line early (before noon) as the site usually closes in the early afternoon once it reaches capacity.

Both PCR/molecular and rapid tests are available to residents at this site.

For more information, visit ocfl.net/Testing and click on #1 on the testing map.

COVID-19 EVICTION DIVERSION PROGRAM EXTENDED
The COVID-19 Eviction Diversion Program deadline has been extended to January 29, 2021. Visit ocfl.net/EvictionDiversion for a full list of eligibility criteria and required documents.

COMPTROLLER UPDATE
Tourist development tax (TDT) collections received by Orange County for the November 2020 were $8,765,800.00. That is a 66% decrease from November 2019.

With the gradual reopening of Florida’s economy after April’s statewide lockdown, TDT collections have steadily increased every month since.

THANK YOU FOR FOOD DONATIONS
A special thank you to the following sponsors for generously providing food to the Florida Department of Health staff working double shifts to administer the vaccine:

• Bonefish Grill
• Disney Springs
• Toasted

Please find all previous updates on the previous Coronavirus Updates page.