JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — As the First Coast continues to be impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, there are still many questions that surround the virus and life during this "new normal." Here are the top eight questions about the coronavirus and the answers you need.
What are the symptoms?
The Centers for Disease Control initially only listed fever, cough and shortness of breath as symptoms of the coronavirus. However, six new symptoms have been confirmed:
- Chills
- Repeated shaking with chills
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- New loss of taste or smell
RELATED: CDC adds 6 new COVID-19 symptoms
Where can I get tested?
There are several options for where to get tested, depending on where you live. Click the story below or a county-by-county breakdown across Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia.
How to file for unemployment?
Florida's unemployment system has been a source of frustration for many people who have lost their jobs due to the pandemic. Gov. Ron DeSantis addressed the issue by appointing new leadership. More workers have also been hired to help those who are unemployed apply for benefits.
Here's what you need to know:
RELATED: Gov. Ron DeSantis says handling of unemployment website was 'unacceptable,' appoints new leadership
How and when will I get my stimulus check?
As of Friday, April 24, 88 million stimulus checks have already been distributed, and the IRS says there are still more than 62 million payments to go.
How, when and if you receive a check depends on a few factors. The stories below provide information on when you'll get your check, how you'll get it and why you may not have received one.
RELATED: If you didn't file your taxes in 2018 or 2019, here's what you need to do to get a stimulus check
How many cases have been reported in Florida and Georgia? How many are fatal?
For up-to-date numbers on cases of coronavirus across Florida and Georgia, as well as deaths, bookmark our live blog. It is updated daily with information from both the Florida and Georgia departments of health with information regarding the number of cases, deaths, and age ranges for patients.
What beaches are open and for how long?
Some beaches across the First Coast have reopened amid the pandemic, though hours are limited to early morning and evening for essential activities such as exercise.
What you need to know:
Are pets safe? What about pet care during the pandemic?
Experts are still learning how pets are affected by COVID-19. Two pet cats in New York City were diagnosed with the virus, proving that at least some pets can contract COVID-19.
While non-essential businesses remain closed in Florida, pet supply stores and animal hospitals still remain open. First Coast No More Homeless Pets offers payment plans for clients who may not be able to afford their bills, and it's looking to hire more vets to help pet owners in need.
How can I help?
First Coast News has partnered with Feeding Northeast Florida to help feed people in need as more Floridians are turning to food banks due to COVID-19.
We also have a list of ways anyone can step in and lend a helping hand to those in need during the pandemic.