#Florida reports 21K COVID cases, breaking single-day record

Florida reported over 21,000 new positive COVID-19 infections on Friday, the highest single-day increase in infections since the beginning of the pandemic, according to statistics from the CDC.

The state reported 21,683 cases on Friday, breaking its previous record of 19,334 reported in January.

Currently, 61 percent of the state’s eligible population is vaccinated according to the most recent report from the Florida Department of Health.

Amidst the state’s spike in cases, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis banned school districts from requiring students and staff to wear masks by executive order on Friday. 

DeSantis’ order came just days after the CDC recommended that all students and staff wear masks in school when they return this fall. 

“If you listen to some of the stuff that’s being percolated around the CDC, there’s a movement to try to impose more restrictions on the American people,” said DeSantis, speaking at an unrelated press event on Friday, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

“And I just want to say in Florida, there will be no lockdowns. There will be no school closures. There will be no restrictions or mandates in the state of Florida.”

DeSantis has also banned businesses from requiring customers to show proof of vaccination.