Sarasota Memorial Hospital

Earlier this year, three activists who are opposed to COVID vaccines and standard treatment protocols for the illness were elected to the board of Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

Amid predictions of a summer surge across the South and the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, officials are raising awareness about taking precautions and getting vaccinated.

In the past several months, new treatments have emerged, which are most effective within the first five days of symptoms but patients may have a hard time knowing whether they qualify.

Treatments are only available for patients at high risk for developing severe COVID-19. Select pharmacies and health facilities have supplies.

Sarasota Memorial Hospital, which had not been allowing visitations, said it will now allow most patients to have two visitors. It also resumed nonemergency surgeries this week.

There are limited exceptions to the policy, instituted in an effort to protect patients and staff from rising cases of COVID-19.

The hospital will allow visits only between noon and 6 p.m. In addition, the number of patient visitors allowed will also be limited.

Dr. Manuel Gordillo is now urging people, whether they are vaccinated or not, to wear masks while indoors in public places.

The state Department of Health early Saturday reported 25 more cases of the coronavirus, with most of the patients in South Florida. Manatee County...

Fourteen patients have tested negative for coronavirus at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, officials said Thursday.