"Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said Wednesday that the state is facing a “massive outbreak” in the coronavirus pandemic as the numbers of new cases and hospitalizations hit record highs, and that some new local restrictions may be needed to protect hospital space for new patients." [FOX26]
Shane Reilly started the flag installation in front on his North Austin home when there were just 973 deaths related to COVID-19 in Texas. He says he updates it every few days.
JORGE SANHUEZA-LYON / KUT
Gov. Abbott announced a temporary pause on any new reopening phases in the state of Texas. Businesses permitted to open prior to the new outbreak can continue to operate, but at a decreased capacity. They must follow the occupancy levels under the minimum standard health protocols from the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Gov. Abbott said that "as we experience an increase in both positive COVID-19 cases and hospitilizations, we are focused on strategies that slow the spread of this virus while also allowing Texans to continue earning a paycheck to support their families." He says he does not want to move backwards by locking down again, and hopes that the temporary pause on reopening phases will help stop the spread. He urges Texans to do their part by wearing masks, washing hands often, and social distancing.
"The more we follow these guidelines, the safer our state will be and the more we can open up Texas for business."
Phhase 3 of reopening allowed retailers and bars to open at 50% capacity and will now remain that way. Elective surgeries were allowed to resume in April, but with thise new executive order that has been suspended for Bexas, Dallas, Harris, and Travis county.
"Texas health officials have reported a record-high of 5,551 new coronavirus cases" since Wendesday and 4,389 other patients have been hospitalized with COVID-19 [FOX26]. Texas has also reported 29 new deaths and positive tests have risen to 10.4%, which is the highest level since April when Texas first underwent stay-at-home orders.
Texas has passed the 4,000 daily mark of new cases this past weekend, meaning Texas is officiall experienceing another outbreak of the novel coronavirus.
SOURCE: FOX26