04/25/20 Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

By Madyson Sanchez
Senior News Reporter

SAN MARCOS, Texas – As of 1 p.m. today, the Hays County Local Health Department reported only one new lab-confirmed COVID-19 case overnight and today, bringing the total number of cases in Hays County to 149. 

Of the positive cases, 71 are recovered and out of quarantine.  There are now 1,491 negative lab-confirmed cases for COVID-19 in Hays County.

Several downtown retailers in San Marcos opened up for Retail-to-Go shopping yesterday following Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order to begin reopening the state’s economy.  

Abbott’s Retail-to-Go order allows businesses to sell to customers using curbside pick-up, doorstep delivery and shipping to maintain social distancing and sanitization guidelines.  When picking up curbside orders, customers should expect workers to bring items directly to their trunk or back seat of their car to minimize interaction.  

The Texas Department of State Health Services stated that customers will not be allowed to go inside of stores, and purchases must be made over the phone or online.

Josie Falletta, Downtown Coordinator for Main Street in San Marcos, said that the choice to reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic is at a business’ own discretion.

“Businesses are making decisions for the health of their employees, our community and their business as a whole,” Falletta said. “For some, curbside service may not be a cost-effective option. Others have altered their operations and found innovative methods of serving their customers.”

While local businesses are expected to benefit from the new order, the Texas Retailers Association said it’s unknown how many businesses will choose to reopen their doors.