© 2024 Central Florida Public Media. All Rights Reserved.
90.7 FM Orlando • 89.5 FM Ocala
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Coronavirus Concerns Affecting Orange County Economy, Says Mayor

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings addresses coronavirus concerns in the county. Photo: Orange TV
Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings addresses coronavirus concerns in the county. Photo: Orange TV

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings said the greatest impact on the county from the coronavirus so far has been economic.

Multiple conferences at the Orange County Convention Center have been canceled at a loss of more than $150 million. But Demings wants visitors to know the county is at a low risk for an outbreak.

“We invite families and others to consider vacation here, especially during spring break. We are still open for business here in Orange County,” said Demings.

A major medical conference canceled a planned event next week, which was scheduled to draw a visit from President Trump.

County health officials say they’re prepared in case there’s an uptick of cases and they are urging people to practice proper hygiene and distance themselves from people who might be sick with cold or flu-like symptoms. 

"We are prepared to address cases in our community, whether from travelers through our health department or residents,” said Orange County Health Services coordinator Yolanda Martinez.

Brendan Byrne is Central Florida Public Media's Assistant News Director, managing the day-to-day operations of the newsroom, editing daily news stories, and managing the organization's internship program. Byrne also hosts Central Florida Public Media's weekly radio show and podcast "Are We There Yet?" which explores human space exploration, and the weekly news roundup podcast "The Wrap."