OKEECHOBEE — In an effort to head off rumors and misinformation, Judge Bill Wallace took to Facebook to set the record straight and let everyone know that he has been admitted to the hospital, but he does not have COVID-19.

“For the last several weeks I have not felt 100%. Starting Thursday afternoon I had the chills. Went home and came into work Friday morning. During the day just continued to feel bad with temperatures reaching 103.9. This continued Saturday and today (Sunday, Oct. 4), and I finally decided it was time to go to the hospital. Obviously my concern was COVID-19. I have been tested two times with negative results. I do not have COVID! I have had extensive testing and have been admitted into the hospital. I have no idea how long the stay will be until I meet with the doctors in the morning. Judge Hiesy and Judge Buchanan will be covering my essential hearings. They have become dear friends, and I owe them both. You cannot ask for better judicial partners,” he wrote.

He went on to say if anyone has a matter scheduled in his courtroom, they should be sure to confirm it prior to traveling to the courthouse.

“End of the day I will be fine, just needed a tune-up.”