COVID-19 Is Making A Comeback In Southwest Florida – What To Look For

With all eyes on Hurricane Idalia, there's something else happening in Florida. COVID-19 is making a comeback. And it's a lot more prevalent in Southwest Florida than the numbers show. How do I know? Because I have it.

For the week ending August 17th, there were 724 new cases reported in Lee County. Collier County reported 323 new cases. The number of new cases is much higher because people like me don't get reported in that number. I do an at home test, call in to work, then settle in for a day of Netflix. I'm now on second season of Suits.

Let me be clear, COVID-19 is everywhere, even though you're not hearing much about it in Florida. The virus keeps mutating and developing new strains. So what's this one like?

Some people get it much worse and require hospitalization. So it's different for everyone. But here's what happened to us. If any of this sounds familiar, you may want to be tested.

Mild Fever. 99 degrees. Not a big time fever.

Runny Nose. This is the one that crushed me. My nose was running so bad I couldn't sleep. I would wake up coughing because I was choking on it. I was able to get a little bit of sleep once I propped up all the pillows and was nearly sitting upright.

Chills. With the thermostat at 79, I had on sweats, a jacket, and my fish slippers. That's what I was doing when Hurricane Idalia went by.

Cough. The COVID cough. I remember this one back from 2020. That nagging unproductive cough.

Again, this is just what we were experiencing. I'm not passing along medical information, just what was happening with us. If you're having some of these symptoms, it may not be just a cold. It could be COVID.

This is all happening as we get into football season. Packed bleachers at high school games. Sports bars. Or parties with friends. So if you have symptoms, don't go. Just because your symptoms are mild doesn't mean the person you give it to will get off as easy.

I checked with Lee Memorial in Fort Myers. Their COVID admissions are WAY up. 

Like everywhere else in Southwest Florida, Coconut Point Mall in Estero is expanding to welcome new businesses.

In an effort to improve upon their already impressive portfolio of unique options, with five new retail and food offerings slated to open in the next year. These brands are part of Coconut Point’s commitment to continue to offer a wide variety of highly sought-after retail brands, entertainment and dining to the community, according to a press release.

We've told you about the new location for The Cheesecake Factory, opening later this month on August 22nd, in the space previously occupied by Stir Crazy Asian Grill.

In addition to earlier announcements for Face Foundrie and PGA Superstore, there are more!

Elevate your eyewear style quotient with the arrival of Warby Parker this November. Discover a curated collection of trendy and timeless eyeglasses and sunglasses that blend fashion with functionality. With a commitment to affordability and quality, Warby Parker empowers you to find the perfect pair of frames that reflect your unique personality and flair. The new store will carry the brand’s full optical and sun eyewear offerings, their brand of daily contact lenses, Scout by Warby Parker, and third-party contacts, in addition to offering eye exams.

FACE FOUNDRIÉ is an all-inclusive focused facial bar. We empower our customers to look and feel their best by providing cutting edge services, accessible pricing, and an extensively trained staff of skin experts that deeply care.

Get ready to chill out and beat the Florida heat with the newest frozen paradise on Fashion Drive next to Sunglass Hut. With more than 40 premium, sugar-free and vegan offerings, this ice cream sensation invites you to relish a medley of creative flavors and imaginative topics that cater to both the classic and adventurous palate. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic sundae or an avant-garde ice cream creation, IceSSScramin’ is your go-to destination for a frozen treat.

Step into the urban fashion haven at the new premier sneaker and streetwear boutique on Fashion Drive next to PacSun. Shoppers can now discover the latest sneaker and streetwear brands, including iconic brands like Jordan, Yeezy, Essentials Fear of God and more. From footwear to clothing, accessories and collectibles, explore streetwear’s diverse allure at The Archive.

Celebrate the harmonious synergy of culture and creativity with the unveiling of the SouthWest Florida Symphony’s new Artist & Operations Center. This larger, acoustically refined space sets the stage for optimal rehearsals and intimate TinyConcerts, fostering the growth of classical music and the performing arts in the region. With over 60 years of enriching the community through arts and culture, the center promises to be a hub where music aficionados and artists unite to shape the future of symphonic excellence.

Opening in Fall of 2023.  Everything you'll need for a day out on the course.  Apparel, equipment, accessories.

Indulge your taste buds at the grand opening of The Cheesecake Factory on Thursday, August 22! Immerse yourself in a world of culinary delight as you savor an extensive menu of delectable dishes and, of course, their legendary array of cheesecake. With its elegant ambiance and diverse offerings, The Cheesecake Factory promises an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you craving more.