SMITH COUNTY, Texas — Smith County officials confirmed the county's 10th case of the coronavirus Saturday night, just hours after the ninth case was announced.
One of these individuals was exposed due to community spread, while the other person was exposed through contact with a previously confirmed case in Smith County.
Both individuals are in home-isolation and both of these positive test results were analyzed and confirmed by private laboratories. The total confirmed number of COVID-19 cases in Smith County is 10.
“Community spread means there is more than one possible source for COVID-19 to become acquired by any individual, “says George Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of NET Health. “The public has the responsibility, more than ever, to follow recommendations from health officials, such as physical distancing yourself from others as much as possible, while also remaining socially connected with family members and friends using technology.”
Residents are reminded to take the same measures that are recommended to prevent the spread of the flu and other respiratory viruses. Everyone in East Texas should remember to:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Practice social distancing - Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home if you believe you have symptoms.
- Cover your cough or sneeze into the bend of your elbow or into a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects using a cleaning items that contain bleach.
- Follow recommendations from your local health district officials.
If you have been exposed to a sick traveler, have been exposed to a person with COVID-19 in the last 14 days, or are experiencing fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, please contact your healthcare provider. The CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a face mask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases.
If you believe you have COVID-19 symptoms, please be sure to call before going to a medical provider.
CITY OF TYLER
The City of Tyler will extend modified facility operations until Friday, April 17. All events city-operated or in a city facility have been suspended through April 17.
Get more information on closures or adjusted services: https://www.cityoftyler.org/government/departments/communications/coronavirus-updates
SMITH COUNTY
On Thursday, March 19, Gov. Greg Abbott passed down executive orders that will close gym facilities and dine-in seating at restaurants beginning Friday, March 20 at 11:59 p.m. and continuing until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, April 3. The Smith County Declaration of Local Disaster Due to the Public Health Emergency from the Coronavirus imposes no additional restrictions to Smith County private businesses. Smith County remains open to the public, but with limited walk-in services. The County encourages people to conduct their businesses online. Many non-essential services are by appointment only.
Jury duty continues to be suspended through April 13.
For a full list of adjusted services, please visit: https://www.smith-county.com/government/departments/corona-virus-information.
