August 26th Florida News That Impacts You

This is a recap of some of the biggest news from around the state that impacts you in South Florida. Fewer than 3,000 new positive COVID-19 tests were reported by the Florida Department of Health on Tuesday. With that being said, the weekly moving average of cases has dropped to its lowest level since June 23rd. Florida’s positive test rate did rise to 7.4% yesterday, reflecting fewer people seeking COVID tests.

The Florida Department of Education officially filed to appeal Leon County Court Judge Charles Dodson’s ruling that local school districts retained complete authority over when it’s safe to offer classroom education options. There’s not a timeline as to when the appeal will be heard.

FAU’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute released the findings of a two-year study of sharks, skates, and rays in the Indian River Lagoon. They found freshwater discharges pushed all but two of 16 species away from the traditional pupping ground. Bull sharks and Atlantic rays, which are more tolerant of lower salinity levels, have become dominant in Lagoon due to the discharges while the populations of other species are further threatened by the discharges. This includes the critically endangered sawfish.

Lastly, the University of Florida’s convalescent plasma trial admitted its first participants yesterday. The purpose of the study is to see if the recently approved treatment can be effective on an outpatient basis. The goal would be to rapidly reduce hospitalizations.

Photo by: Getty Images


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