The Florida Department of Health in Monroe County urges all those who have not yet been vaccinated against COVID-19 to get it as soon as possible. âCOVID-19 cases in Monroe County are increasing and particularly affecting those who are not fully vaccinated,â said Dr. Mark Whiteside, local medical director for the department. âVaccination is the best way to protect individuals from serious disease, hospitalization, and death.â Residents, including those who are fully vaccinated are strongly encouraged to continue the basic principles of infection control, including hand washing, mask wearing, and avoiding crowds, Health Department officials said. For information, including where to get vaccinated, visit http://www.monroe.flhealth.gov/vax.