Coronavirus: In Florida, Sawgrass Country Club member tests positive

Sawgrass Country Club in Jacksonville, Florida, has reported a member who tested positive for the coronavirus.

A second private golf course on the First Coast has reported a member who tested positive for the coronavirus.

Florida Times-Union news partner First Coast News cited a source on Saturday that said the individual played golf on March 14 and 15, and spent time in the lounge, before the club modified its operations to ensure more precautions against the virus.

In an email obtained by FCN, the club said his playing partners and guests have been notified of the positive test.

Related: Can you still play golf in Florida?

“However, if you were in the golf club lounge in the afternoon of [March 14 of 15], you may have been exposed,” the statement said. “That member has not been at the Club since Sunday.”

The email said that the club remained open after consulting with medical professionals and reviewing CDC guidelines.

“The current restraints on our operation are sufficient to maintain it in the current use of pattern. However, this process is very fluid and will continue to be evaluated on a daily basis.”

The Times-Union reported on March 17 that the San Jose Country Club had been closed and cleaning and disinfecting procedures done to the clubhouse after a member played golf there on March 8 and 9 later tested positive for coronavirus. The club has since reopened.

Almost all area golf courses have stayed open throughout the past week, with modifications such as restrictions on food and beverage service and asking players not to touch surfaces such as flagsticks. Bunker rakes have been removed and golf carts are cleaned inside and out after each use.

An updated list on the status of area courses can be found at florida-golf.org.