The Stay Home, Work Safe Order in place for Houston and Harris County to help stop the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has been extended through April 30.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo tweeted that the county's 4.6 million residents should stay home except for essential needs.
“This moment in history will define our future,” she stated in the tweet. "History will say we prioritized human life."
Harris County reported its fourth death related to COVID-19 on March 31. The county has at least 563 confirmed cases of the virus, according to Harris County Public Health. Texas Health and Human Services reported at least 3,266 cases in the state and 41 deaths.
Outings to get groceries, medical appointments, providing care for relatives and exercising outdoors – while practicing social distancing – are permitted under the order issued by Hildago in Harrison County. Her order is more far-reaching than the order issued by Gov. Gregg Abbott.
Abbott ordered bars and restaurants closed for dine-in and for Texas residents to avoid outings and events with more than 10 people, but has stated he wants the decision to issue shelter-in-place orders to be made on the local level.
Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said in a news conference that a medical facility to treat coronavirus victims is “ready to go even as of today.”
The facility is at the former Kindred Hospital at 1800 W. 26th St. There are 68 beds, in addition 21 beds in the intensive care unit. He also said the city has been scouting other locations in case additional facilities are needed.
Air travelers from the tri-state area surrounding New York City, from New Orleans, and from other hot spots have been ordered by Gov. Abbott to self-quarantine for 14 days after arriving in Texas.
President Donald Trump on March 29 extended the country’s national emergency until April 30, according to The Associated Press.
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