Hays County reports first presumptive coronavirus case, declares local state of disaster
SAN MARCOS, Texas - Hays County officials have reported it's first presumptive case of COVID-19.
In a press conference Sunday morning, Hays County officials declared a local state of disaster.
According to a press release sent by Hays County, the patient traveled to multiple cities along the West Coast of the United States and is believed to have been exposed while traveling.
When the patent made their way back to Central Texas they notified the Hays County Local Health Department about their symptoms and was admitted to a local hospital where they are currently recovering.
Health officials have announced that the patient has been released from the hospital and will self-quarantine at home until they are fever-free for 48 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.
Hays County officials say that the patient did not expose any residents to the disease. The Hays County Local Health Department is working with the Department of State Health Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to notify the passengers that were potentially exposed while on the plane with the patient.
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“As this is a pandemic disease, we fully expected to see cases in Hays County and have been preparing for this situation,” County Judge Ruben Becerra said. “We have been working with local and state officials to ensure that protocols are established and followed and that we have access to additional resources should they be necessary.”
The announcement comes a day after Governor Abbott declared a state of disaster for Texas.
“Residents with underlying health conditions or a weakened immune system and persons over 65 tend to be hardest hit by COVID-19 and should consult their health care provider if they are experiencing symptoms, as should persons with high fevers or shortness of breath," Judge Becerra said.
Visit the CDC's website for the best coronavirus prevention practices.