Ask Catie: The Treasure Coast has questions about the coronavirus. We're answering them.

News about the coronavirus is moving quickly, and we want to make sure you're up-to-date and not left in the dark. 

We dedicate ourselves and our work to informing Treasure Coast communities with the information you need. To do that in these trying times, we're taking your questions and finding answers.

While we are answering as many questions as we can, we are refraining from medical-related questions. These would be better suited for a health care professional.

Here's how you can get answers:

- Fill out the form below, or click here.

- Like or follow our community Facebook group and post your questions there: facebook.com/groups/tcpalm.coronavirus.help/

- Email reporter Catie Wegman at catie.wegman@tcpalm.com

Your questions, our answers:

Q: What is the case and death count for Martin, Indian River and St. Lucie counties? How many tests have been administered?

A: There are now 314 cases on the Treasure Coast, according to Thursday night's (April 9) advisory from the state Department of Health. Six St. Lucie County residents and one from Martin County have died from COVID-19. 

• Vero Beach: 48
• Sebastian: 5
• Fellsmere: 1
• Port St. Lucie: 106
• Fort Pierce: 28
• Stuart: 56
• Palm City: 21
• Jensen Beach: 8
• Hobe Sound: 14
• Indiantown: 7

Martin County has administered 1,011 tests. Indian River County has tested 876; and in St. Lucie County, 1,652 have been taken. 

Q: Is spraying Lysol enough to kill the virus on surfaces, packages, etc.?

A: The CDC says most common EPA-registered (Environmental Protection Agency) household disinfectants should be effective in killing the coronavirus — including Lysol. A list of products that are approved for use against the virus that causes COVID-19 is available on the EPA's website. 

Q: Does FPL have a plan to shut down the St. Luice nuclear power facility? Could the pandemic result in blackouts?

A: FPL does not anticipate any blackouts, spokesperson Peter Robbins said. All nuclear facilities are required to have detailed plans and procedures in place that consider a wide range of emergency scenarios, including pandemics. The power plant has limited access to its control centers to essential personnel only and put various procedures in place to limit the spread of the virus. 

Q: Why are so many people out when we are supposed to be home? Is any one watching?

A: Under the stay-at-home order, people are allowed to be outside for exercise purposes (walking, biking, etc.) but must maintain social distancing guidelines and be at least 6-feet apart. Local law enforcement has stated it will increase patrolling for violators. 

More: Enforcement of stay-at-home order; warnings come first, but arrests could follow

Q: Why are the front line staff not being tested? Can people with mild symptoms be tested?

A: The CDC has guidelines on who should be tested, but decisions about testing are at the discretion of state and local health departments and/or individual clinicians. The CDC does not advise testing for those with mild symptoms who can most likely recover at home. Healthcare workers and first repsonders showing no symptoms were ranked as a "priority three" to receive testing. 

Q: Who qualifies for the CARES (The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act benefits?

A: Based on your 2018 or 2019 tax return, any individual or couple whose adjusted gross income is less than $75,000 and $150,000, respectively, will receive compensation under the CARES Act. The rebate phases out at $50 for every $1,000 of income earned above those thresholds. There is also additional compensation for having dependents. 

Q: What are considered essential businesses that are allowed to remain open under the stay-at-home order?

A: Here's a complete list of all essential businesses, which must institute social distancing practices:

• Health care workers
• Law enforcement and other first responders
• Groceries, pharmacies and convenience stores
• Restaurants serving take-out or delivery
• Grocery delivery services
• Gas stations
• Banks and other financial institutions
• Hardware stores
• Mailing and shipping companies
• Private colleges
• Laundromats and dry cleaners
• Pet supply stores
• Office supply stores
• Transportation services
• Newspapers, radio, television or other media companies
• Energy companies
• Utility companies
• Factories or other industrial manufacturing services
• Sanitation services
• Car dealerships
• Hotels
• Funeral homes
• Marinas and other marina services
• University and college dormitories
• Firearm stores
• Any business providing services to the government

Q: Is it true that there is a 30% false negative result on COVID-19 test results?

A: Preliminary research from China suggests the COVID-19 test that swabs the back of the patients' nasal cavity may give false-negative results about 30% of the time, the Boston Globe reported. The research has not yet been peer-reviewed.

Reasons a test can come back negative include:

• The initial swab sample did not always collect enough genetic material to provide an accurate test
• How the tests are processed in the laboratory or what specific chemicals are applied to each sample

Q: One of my family members works at Lawnwood (Reional Medical Center). I have really bad asthma, what should I do to protect myself?

A: According to an article in the Journal of the American Medical Association, healthcare workers and family members should have separate living spaces and follow protocols for infection control at home as well. 

Q: Is it OK to pick up a friend at the West Palm Beach airport while the isolation is in effect?

A: It depends. Per the Florida Department of Health guidelines and Florida Governor DeSantis Executive Order 20-82, all travelers originating from outside the State of Florida in areas with substantial community spread are required to isolate for 14 days.

Per the stay-at-home order, persons should not be visiting with friends or family unless it is an emergency. Ride sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft are still operational. 

Q: Can we still paint houses outside?

A: Yes, if it is your own home or you are operating under an essential business. 

Q: What are the specific enforceable restrictions of a "safer at home" order?

A: Safer-at-home means Floridians are free to care for loved ones, run or bike outside, or dash to get groceries when necessary, all while practicing social distancing. The order also encourages businesses to offer delivery and carry-out services whenever possible, as restaurant dining rooms remain shuttered. The order makes clear that groups of 10 or more people aren’t allowed in public spaces. However, the faithful are permitted to worship in churches and synagogues.

More: Safer-at-home order: What you can and can't do

Q: Are fruits and vegetables in grocery stores safe to eat?

A: “We are not aware of any reports at this time of human illnesses that suggest COVID-19 can be transmitted by food or food packaging,” the FDA said in a Feb. 27 statement. Most government agencies recommend simply washing fruits and vegetables under running water and scrubbing with a vegetable brush as needed. You also don’t want a drastic temperature difference between the produce and the water, because it could allow the produce to absorb any bacteria on the surface.

Q: Are dentist considered essential in Martin County? I ask because I think my dentist is closed.

A: Some dental services are considered essential. The American Dental Association and The Association of Dental Support Organizations have weighed in on what should constitute a trip to the dentist amid the coronavirus. It's up to a business' discretion to temporarily shut down or close, though. 

Q: I was wondering if a flooring store is considered essential to be open at this time?

A: Along the Treasure Coast, non-essential businesses are still allowed to be operational — with the exception of restaurants and bars, gyms, movie theaters, etc. that the governor has already ordered to close. It is up to a business' discretion whether or not to shut down unless legally mandated. 

Q: Why aren’t supermarkets limiting the number of people allowed in the store at one time?

A: According to a Vox article, it appears as though its a personal business decision. Some stores are limiting the amount of shoppers allowed in at one time, while others are installing six-feet-apart markings at checkout lines. 

Q: How come golf courses are open on the Treasure Coast?

A: Each county has not forced golf courses to close. Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade counties have, though — driving many residents north to play. However, St. Lucie County commissioners ruled Tuesday that anyone playing golf must be alone in a cart. And PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie is limiting play on its three championship golf courses to club members and PGA members.

Five courses have closed:

• Martin County Golf Course 
• Palm Cove
• Fairwinds Golf Course
• Grand Harbor Golf & Beach Club
• Sandridge Golf Course in Indian River County

Q: We have sold our house and were moving out of state. Can we continue to move?

A: It depends on where you're going. The American Moving and Storage Association recommends postponing your move until after the pandemic has passed if you are in a vulnerable group. However, the only restrictions on travel as it relates to Florida thus far include going to and from Louisiana and New York. Check local and state restrictions prior to moving. 

Q: How many deaths are acceptable before Indian River County decides to shut down all non-essential businesses?

A: There is no standard or criteria used to determine such actions. 

Q: Is garbage pickup going to be affected because of the coronavirus?

A: No. The Department of Homeland Security has stated that garbage collection is considered an essential business and its services would continue should a shelter-in-place or stay-at-home order be enacted. 

Q: Does Vero Beach have a stay at home order?

A: A statewide stay-at-home order was issued by Gov. Ron DeSantis and goes into effect on Friday, April 3, at 12:01 a.m. 

Q: Why are arcades allowed to remain open and have more than 10 people gathered together?

A: Nonessential businesses, such as arcades, are allowed to remain open as of now; but Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an order banning gatherings of more than 10 people last week. Residents are advised to contact local law enforcement agencies to report violations.

Q: If my child's day care center is closed and schools are out, what options does a working parent have for a child who's too young to stay at home alone? 

A: Whether working for home or reporting to the office, a parent's best option is to seek assistance through a babysitter or solicit a family members' help. Though some day cares remain open, it is unlikely the center will take in a child for a short term, as-needed basis. Local nonprofit agencies that also offer child care services have stopped services amid the coornavirus outbreak. 

Babysitters, nannies and parents in need of such services can join the Treasure Coast Child Care/Babysitting/Nanny Group Facebook page.

It's reasonable to be cautious of the health concerns associated with someone else looking over you child. The CDC recommends carefully considering who can provide for your child. For example, the agency recommends not soliciting an older person, or grandparent, to watch over them. 

Q: If a person has had the virus and recovered, without being tested, is there a way to determine that they had it and hopefully, are not at risk of reinfection?

A: A study published on March 11, found that patients with the new coronavirus keep the pathogen in their respiratory tract for as long as 37 day and can be infectious for many weeks. 

The CDC has not confirmed how long someone might be infectious. It has reported, though, that patients with SARS (another coronavirus) can be contagious up to 10 days after symptoms are gone. 

Q: The government is talking about sending checks to the American citizens to help ease the financial burden that this pandemic is causing. How can this be allowed to happen? And what about people who are in debt? 

A: The Senate reached a deal on a $2 trillion stimulus package Wednesday. It's necessity is based largely on the impact of consumer spending — which makes up about 70% of the economy. 

The belief is that people, especially lower-income workers, who receive a financial boost will spend it on necessities like food and rent, helping them make those payments even if their hours are cut. That’s a huge infusion of cash into the economy.

The economy is almost certainly already in a recession, with Moody’s Analytics estimating gross domestic product will decline at a 2.2% annual rate in the current quarter. With the stimulus, the economy would contract by 17.4% in the second quarter and the chances of a more devastating downturn are sharply reduced. 

Q: If you have a private access point to the beach, can you go on the beach in Fort Pierce/Hutchinson Island?

A: Condominium owners, beachfront homeowners and members of community associations that have a private access to the beach are allowed to enjoy their salt therapy uninterrupted, as long as there are no large groups. 

More: Coronavirus has closed beaches. Is there a safe option to keep them open?

Q: If a family member or loved one lives in Orange County, which has issued a stay-at-home order, can I still travel from Brevard County into Orange County and then from Orange County back to Brevard County?

A: No. Technically under stay at home orders, you are not allowed to visit someone else's home. 

Q: Why hasn't the governor asked the spring breakers and other non-residents to leave the state when they have obviously shown blatant disrespect for others on the news? 

A: DeSantis allowed local government officials to take the lead on closing beaches that attract college-aged crowds, saying Monday that not all beaches attract the same groups of people. The governor has also recently taken measures to prevent people from coming into the state — issuing an executive order requiring travelers from the New York Tri-State Area to self-isolate for 14 days after flying into Florida airports. Violators could be charged criminally.

Q: Why are hospitals still performing elective surgeries?

A: The American Hospital Association said such decisions "should be determined at the local, community level in consultation with hospitals and the clinical recommendations of physicians and nurses."

Q: Are we going to be quarantined to our homes?

A: Gov. Ron DeSantis  said he is weighing his options, including an executive order requiring all Floridians to shelter-in-place and limit nonessential services at a news conference on Monday. 

Federal, state and local authorities are allowed to enforce isolation and quarantine within respective borders. There is no criteria to determine "when" a quarantine or isolation should be enforced. Federal, state and local authorities continue to monitor the situation and act as they see fit. 

California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio and West Virginia have all implemented stay-at-home orders.

A federal, large-scale isolation and quarantine was last enforced during the influenza pandemic in 1918 and 1919, the CDC said. 

Q: After 10 days of quarantine, I feel fine. Should I still be concerned or does it take 14 days to be sure?

A: Symptoms of COVID-19 can appear anywhere from two to 14 days after being exposed to the virus, the CDC says. Emergency warning signs associated with coronavirus that differ from other illness include trouble breathing and persistent pain or pressure in the chest. 

Q: What if we do feel ill while social distancing, how do we handle this with our cats or dogs, and is it transmitted between cat to dog?

A: The CDC does not have evidence that companion animals, including pets, can spread or contract COVID-19. If you are sick with COVID-19, you should restrict contact with pets and other animals, just like you would around other people.

Q: As a small business owner I would like some direction from our local officials. All I am being told is where to apply for a business loan, which is not my concern right now. How are officials going to help small businesses stay afloat?

A: The Small Business Association's Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is providing small businesses with working capital loans of up to $2 million to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. 

Many banks have offered deferment and forbearance to business loan customers having trouble making payments. Florida has not yet announced a plan as other states (including Michigan, New York, California and Colorado) have. 

Q: Will washing clothes kill the virus if it happened to be on their garments? If coming into contact with people, should clothing be immediately washed? Should I use hot water?

Evidence suggests that the coronavirus may remain viable for hours to days on surfaces made from a variety of materials, which includes clothing, the CDC says. Polyester, spandex-like material may retain germs longer than breathable cotton-based fabrics, too. To kill the virus, it's best to use hot water and also run the dryer a bit longer to further expose it to heat. 

Q: In the 19th Judicial Circuit, what is the status of jury trials after the 27th of March, 2020?

A: As of March 27, all in-person non-essential functions are canceled or postponed until further notice. Essential court proceedings will continue, which include:

• First appearance hearings;
• Juvenile dependency shelter hearings;
• Termination of Parental Rights (TPR) advisory hearings; Hearings on petitions for Judicial Waiver of Notice;
• Juvenile delinquency detention hearings;
• Hearings on ex parte petitions for temporary injunctions relating to safety of an individual;
• Instanter hearings on child support writ reviews; Hearings on ex parte petitions for risk protection orders;
• Hearings on petitions for the appointment of an emergency temporary guardian;
• Hearings on Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Orders;
• Involuntary commitment hearings under the Baker Act or Marchman Act;
• Hearings on motions to set or modify monetary bond for defendants in custody;
• Hearings on petitions for extraordinary writs as necessary to protect constitutional rights;
• Criminal arraignments as necessary;
• Issuance of warrants or authorization for wiretaps; 
• Other emergency or time-sensitive matters as determined by the presiding judge.
• A change of plea hearing that results in release from county jail.

Questions about case status should be directed to the presiding judges and magistrates. Contact information is located on the Nineteenth Judicial Circuit’s website, circuit19.org/judges. You may also call 772-807-4370 or email publicinformation@circuit19.org

Q: What exactly is causing people to die from COVID-19?

A: The first symptoms of COVID-19 are pretty common with respiratory illnesses — fever, a dry cough and shortness of breath. But the new coronavirus attacks the lungs, and in about 20% of patients, infections can get more serious, NPR reported. The immune system's response to the invader can also destroy lung tissue and cause inflammation, commonly ending in pneumonia. That means the air sacs in the lungs become inflamed and filled with fluid, making it harder to breathe.

Q: Are there plans to close daycare centers? I know people rely on them (as they do public schools) but it seems like a huge risk to keep them open.

A: Unless mandated by the government, it's up to a businesses' discretion to decide whether or not to close its doors. The CDC recommends business owners consider the disease severity in the community where the business is located and check in with local health officials who issue guidance specific to their communities.

Q: If we move to “shelter-in-place” how would grocery shopping work? How many weeks do we need to have enough for?

A: A "shelter-in-place" order does have exemptions for "essential" activities, CNN reported. The shelter-in-place order that San Francisco adopted has exemptions for health, work, food and exercise. So, grocery stores are remaining open, and residents are allowed to go to such locations to buy necessary items needed to survive at home. 

The truth is no one can predict how long social distancing, self-quarantining, or a possibly mandated quarantine may last. Exact quantities of supplies needed also differ based on number of family members, but the CDC recommends having at least two weeks of supplies handy. If possible, though, prepare for at least a month. 

Q: How long does it take to get a COVID-19 test result back?

A: Test results can take up to 5 days to come back, according to Cleveland Clinic Martin Health. However, the sheer number of tests being conducted can alter that, and it may also affect which lab it is sent to for results, said spokesperson Scott Samples.

The hospital is performing drive-through testing at Martin North Hospital for COVID-19 by appointment only for individuals who meet the FDOH's criteria from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 

Q: Can the coronavirus live on mail or packages? If so, what is the best way to handle these items?

A: The virus that causes the coronavirus disease is stable for up to 24 hours on cardboard and up to two to three days on plastic and stainless steel, the National Institutes of Health found.  After coming in contact with such objects, the NIH recommends people wash their hands; avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth; and clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. 

More: Coronavirus hotline launched in Indian River County

More: Coronavirus in Florida through photos | GALLERY

Q: Will Social Security be able to continue to issue seniors their Social Security checks during and throughout the coronavirus pandemic?

A: For now, the Social Security Administration is continuing direct deposit payments as well as sending checks through USPS. The SSA is NOT providing in-person services. 

"On Tuesday, March 17, 2020, we suspended face-to-face service to the public in our field offices and hearings offices nationwide until further notice. This decision protects the population we serve—older Americans and people with underlying medical conditions—and our employees during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic."

For more information on Social Security, visit the administration's website: ssa.gov/coronavirus/

Q: Pickleball in Florida is so important, a healthy pastime, endorphins are good for the immune system...can we still play in small groups of 4?

A: The only pickleball court on the Treasure Coast to have closed thus far are the ones located at the Indian River County IG Center. As of March 19, other pickleball courts remain open, inlcuding:

• YMCA of the Treasure Coast, Stuart location
• Halpatiokee Regional Park in Stuart
• Langford Park in Jensen Beach
• Countyline Community Center in Hobe Sound
• Post Family Park in Indiantown
• Wojcieszak Park in Stuart
• Whispering Pines Park in Port St. Lucie
• Pocahontas Park in Vero Beach
• South County Park in Vero Beach 
• Schumann Drive Park in Sebastian

More: Catholic churches suspend Mass indefinitely 

Q: Please clarify the rules on restaurants with bars. 

A: Florida bars and nightclubs must close for the next 30 days, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Tuesday. That was encompassing of any bar, pub and nightclub that derives more than 50% of its gross revenue from the sale of alcoholic beverages. DeSantis' executive order also affected restaurants that now have to:

• Immediately limit occupancy to 50% of current building occupancy
• Groups of patrons must be seated at least 6 feet apart
• Groups of patrons cannot exceed 10 people
• Restaurants must screen all employees for COVID-19

More: Here's what is closed or has changed amid COVID-19 concerns

Unanswered questions

Some questions are a little tougher to answer. Here's a running list of what we're looking into but have yet found a solid answer to:

Q: Store shelves here in Stuart have been sitting empty for a week now with no access to basic supplies. What is being done to help locals get access to the food and supplies that we need?

Feel free to come back

We will update this story as questions continue to roll in. So feel free to bookmark the page and come back to see what else we've been able to answer.

And a parting note: Some of the questions rolling in are similar to those we've already answered. While the wording of the question might be different, the answer is the same.

Keep the questions coming and we'll answer what we can.

Want more? Read the entire "Ask Catie" collection here. 

Catie Wegman is a community reporter who also produces "Ask Catie," an occasional feature to find answers to your burning questions about anything and everything — the more bizarre the better. Support her work with a TCPalm subscription. Contact her at catie.wegman@tcpalm.com or 772-221-4211 and follow her @Catie_Wegman on Twitter and @catiewegman1 on Facebook.