Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is facing backlash after a photo of a Covid-19 patient curled up on a healthcare centre's floor while awaiting treatment went viral.

       According to Kailey Tracy of First Coast News, the city of Jacksonville confirmed that the photo was real and was taken at a monoclonal treatment centre at the downtown library on Wednesday.

       According to Ms Tracy, a woman who claimed her husband took the photo posted it to Reddit.

       "Woman who posted picture to Reddit says her husband took it, saw people crying in pain. COJ says they were waiting for treatment, providing triple # of wheelchairs now," she reported.

       The city issued a statement saying the centre where the photo was taken was not intended for people experiencing advanced covid symptoms.

       "This treatment is meant to keep people OUT of the hospital and is designed for those early on in their COVID-19 diagnosis or for those who believe they have been exposed to COVID. Individuals with severe symptoms should contact a medical professional for guidance on the proper treatment for their situation," the city said.

       On Twitter, critics have been lashing out at Mr DeSantis, who has long been criticised for downplaying the threat of the virus and fighting against mitigation policies like mask mandates for businesses and schools.