Local state of disaster declared for Tarrant County amid statewide disaster declaration for Coronavirus
Judge Glen Whitley has declared a local state of disaster for Tarrant County as officials continue to respond to the Coronavirus outbreak.
The first presumptive positive case of the COVID-19 Coronavirus in Tarrant County was confirmed on Wednesday of this week. Officials have identified a second resident in Tarrant County with a presumptive positive test result. He or she is an overseas traveler.
According to the disaster declaration, events with over 250 attendees are to be canceled. County officials also strongly recommended any gatherings involving close contact within each other be postponed or canceled. “Anyone who is sick or has a member of family who is sick should not attend.” They also say “high risk” individuals should not attend events.
Officials also say all nonessential travel be canceled.
There are currently a total of twelve (12) cases of the Coronavirus reported in the North Texas area: two in Tarrant County, five in Dallas County, and five in Collin County. No cases are reported in Denton, Ellis, Parker, and Rockwall counties.
There are at least 23 cases reported statewide. The first was reported in the Houston area.
“A proclamation certifying that COVID-19 poses an imminent threat of disaster in the state and declaring a state of disaster for all counties in Texas,” reads a disaster declaration from Governor Abbott.
Officials recommend these important safety measures:
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Avoid touching your face
Stay home when sick
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and throw the tissue in the trash
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
Follow CDC recommendations for using a facemask
Wash your hands often using soap for at least 20 seconds
Consult with CDC’s travel website for any travel advisories
