04/14/20 Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

By Madyson Sanchez
Junior News Reporter

SAN MARCOS, Texas – The Hays County Local Health Department confirmed 10 additional lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 today, bringing the total number of cases in Hays County to 103.

Of the 103 Hays County cases reported, 59 are active cases. The health department has so far received 604 negative test results.

Civic meetings in Hays County, along with several counties across Texas, have transitioned to a virtual setting to comply with social distancing orders in effect statewide. San Marcos residents can now participate in and watch city hall and commissioners court meetings online.

“People can watch it live-streamed on their computer or their phones,” said Kristy Stark director of communications for the City of San Marcos. “They still do the exact same thing they did before we were doing virtual meetings.”

Local government will continue to use web apps like Zoom and Webex to host meetings virtually until the COVID-19 restrictions are no longer in effect.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Parks and Recreation Department began offering wellness checks to anyone 60 plus who would prefer to be called during the Hays County stay-at-home order. The City of San Marcos said that many active senior adults are in a vulnerable position for illness and isolation-induced issues.

“Of the 702 seniors we’ve spoken to by phone, 205 have asked us to continue to call them to check in as this pandemic progresses,” said Nick Riali, Senior Citizen Programs Coordinator. “Based on their feedback, we are considering this a critical alternative program for the community.”

The City of San Marcos said in an April 14 press release that officials will continue to monitor all program changes implemented due to the COVID-19 restrictions to ensure programs, like Senior Wellness Checks, are meeting the community’s needs.