Covid-19 could have 'catastrophic consequences' in Florida, expert says

The potential for Florida to emerge as an epicenter of Covid-19 "could have catastrophic consequences," said Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, director of the division of infectious diseases at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Marrazzo explained the spike of new cases in Florida is concerning because of the state's aging population and the prevalence of nursing homes, geriatric care centers and retirement communities, reports the CNN.

"We know very, very well that age and coexisting conditions, like cardiovascular disease, like lung disease, like diabetes, are the prime predictors for hospitalization and for mortality with this virus," Marrazzo said.

"The potential for the virus to take off there is very, very nerve-racking and could have catastrophic consequences."