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COVID-19: Unclear How Manatee Man Was Infected With Coronavirus, Say Officials

The unidentified male patient sought treatment for pneumonia in late February, officials say
Kerry Sheridan/WUSF
The unidentified male patient sought treatment for pneumonia in late February, officials say

One of the confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Tampa Bay area is a patient who has no recent history of travel. 

The man is in his 60s, and is a resident of Manatee County. His name has not been released.

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He was admitted to Doctor’s Hospital of Sarasota in late February, according to a memo from the hospital that circulated online over the weekend.

Florida surgeon general Scott Rivkees said Monday the patient sought treatment for pneumonia, and is now in stable condition.

READ MORE: Coronavirus Coverage On WUSF

It’s unclear how he was infected with the coronavirus. 

The Florida Department of Health is working to isolate and monitor anyone who came in contact with him who develops symptoms like cough, fever or shortness of breath, Rivkees said.

Officials with the Sarasota Military Academy say one of their students and his mother – who came in contact with the patient in her professional capacity at the hospital -- are being quarantined as a precautionary measure.

The student in quarantine was not among those who greeted Vice President Mike Pence during his visit to Sarasota on Friday, a school official said in an email.

CORONAVIRUS Q&A:

Health News Florida Editor Julio Ochoa discusses what residents in Florida need to know about the virus with WUSF's Lisa Peakes

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COVID-19: Unclear How Manatee Man Was Infected With Coronavirus, Say Officials

Kerry Sheridan is a reporter and co-host of All Things Considered at WUSF Public Media.