COVID-19 UPDATES

 FROM TAMPA BAY PROTOCOL & TRADE

In light of reports of presumed COVID-19 (Coronavirus) infections in Florida, Tampa Bay Protocol & Trade continues to monitor the situation very closely and recommends everyone concerned stay up-to-date with the most recent information through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Florida Department of Health.

At a press conference in Tampa Bay on March 2, Florida Surgeon General Scott A. Rivkees said risk to the general population is currently low, adding: “You can go about your normal business.”

The Florida Department of Health recommends hand-washing as the best safeguard against respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19 and influenza.

Rivkees also advised people to: avoid close contact with people who are ill, stay home if you feel sick, avoid touching your face, contain any cough or sneeze and wash your hands.

“These measures will protect you,” he said.

On its website, the CDC notes that COVID-19 spreads in much the same way as other respiratory infections: through droplets spread by coughing or sneezing, and possibly through touching infected surfaces. Prevention and avoidance follow similar patterns to other respiratory illnesses: contain any coughs or sneezes, monitor yourself for symptoms, and stay home if you feel ill.

Tampa Bay Protocol & Trade is actively monitoring COVID-19 reports from the CDC and Florida Department of Health, and will pass pertinent information along to travelers as needed via Visit Tampa Bay’s media room (www.visittampabay.com/media) and social media channels, such as Facebook and Twitter as it becomes available.

COVID-19 Resources:  
Our parent company at Visit Tampa Bay has activated a special landing page to provide a one-stop shop for resources and information regarding COVID-19. It includes the latest official statement about how the local tourism industry is addressing concerns about the virus. As film is linked inexorably with tourism, it is a good rule of thumb to follow suit.

  • CDC advice on Mass Gatherings and Events: CLICK HERE

  • Florida Department of Health Stats on COVID-19: CLICK HERE

  • Port Tampa Bay statement about protective measures: CLICK HERE

  • Tampa International Airport statement about protective measures: CLICK HERE

Tampa Bay Protocol & Trade Recommends:  

  • Increased sanitation options on sets, including hand sanitizer, Lysol wipes and sprays.

  • Actively encourage cast and crew to assess their own health risks.

  • Continue to be informed and actively share information with clients.

  • Have a plan if cast or crew exhibit signs of illness.