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April 24: Dozens More Bexar County Inmates Test Positive For COVID-19, Bringing Total To 57

A file photo of the Bexar County Sheriff's Office and detention center.
Eileen Pace | Texas Public Radio
/
Texas Public Radio
A file photo of the Bexar County Sheriff's Office and detention center.

This Post is Archived: Find the newest information on COVID-19 in San Antonio at the links below.

Texas Public Radio is updating the latest information on COVID-19 in the San Antonio area, along with how local businesses are adjusting,how you can help those in need and what you can do to stay entertained at home. TPR is also providing live updates on the Rio Grande Valley.

Here's what we know ...

Friday, April 24

6:13 p.m. — Total confirmed cases at 1,195

Mayor Ron Nirenberg and County Judge Nelson Wolff were joined by Fire Department Chief Charles Hood at Friday's briefing. Nirenberg said that the number of confirmed cases is up 28 from yesterday, bringing the total to 1,195.


The total number of recoveries is now 383, up 22 from yesterday. There are no new deaths from yesterday, leaving the total at 43. 

Wolff said the Bexar County Jail has confirmed 21 more cases, bringing the total at the jail to 57. Of those 57, 10 have recovered, 45 are isolated and two are in the hospital.


Both Wolff and Nirenberg acknowledged that Gov. Greg Abbott will reevaluate his executive order for Essential Services and Activities Protocols next week.

“When we talk about the management and the containment of this pandemic years from now, I think San Antonio will show as a bright star, all of the things that we’re doing to control this pandemic and save lives. So, thank you for doing your part,” Nirenberg said. “This is a work in progress, though,  and when we’re making that progress and flattening the curve, it’s not time to stop.”

However, Nirenberg said San Antonio and Bexar County will adjust accordingly.


"The orders that come out from the city and the county from the judge and myself next week will reflect everything we can do to keep our community safe and hope that in a safe manner depending on what our state does,” he said.

5:50 p.m. — Watch today's daily briefing

 

5 p.m. — Survery reports banks aren't giving loans to Latino businesses

Big banks failed Latino business owners in administering federal relief loans, and time is running out. That’s according to early survey data from the League of United Latin American Citizens and the U.S. Hispanic Chamber on Friday.

The nation’s largest lenders offered few, and at times no loans to Latino business owners according to the ongoing survey. Wells Fargo — one of the biggest lenders in the nation and one of the banks Latino business owners applied to the most — funded zero applications from Latino business owners under the federal paycheck protection program

JPMorgan Chase and Bank of America accepted only 12% of the nearly 80 Latino applicants. U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President Ramiro Cavazos said money needs to be set aside for these businesses 

“Minority and Latino owned businesses have not received their fair share of the lending. It’s very clear from the data,” said Cavazos.

One lender that Latino businesses saw success with was San Antonio-based Frost Bank which according to their data funded 60% of the Latino-owned businesses that applied.

LULAC and the Hispanic chamber are calling on the Small Business Administration for official figures.

12:25 p.m. — Comal County announces one-day free test site

Comal County officials announced they will provide free COVID-19 test through a one-day, drive-through to anyone who makes an appointment next week. The site will be at Canyon High School in New Braunfels, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, April 30.

Those needing a test must call 512-883-2400 or visit www.txcovidtest.org beginning Tuesday morning to register and receive an appointment time.

This site is in addition to the ongoing drive-through site run by local physicians. The Office of Public Health in Comal County reports 48 people have tested positive in the area.

9 a.m. — Retail To-Go Services Begin

Retail stores across Texas can begin reopening today but under strict social-distancing guidelines. 

Governor Greg Abbott's order allows businesses to either deliver sold items to customers or offer curbside pick-up. All employees are required to wear face coverings and remain six feet apart.

Payment must also be made by phone or online if possible.

Thursday, April 23

6:45 p.m. — 1,167 cases of COVID-19 confirmed in San Antonio area

Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff warned residents that if Texas Gov. Greg Abbott reopens the state, "don't think that the problem is over." The governor said he would allow retail stores to open as early as Friday.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7LXVvqsI8A

Assistant City Manager Lori Houston explained how $25 million — approved by the city council Thursday — would be divided to help residents in need. After applying, San Antonio households with one individual can receive $150. For each additional person, $50 is added with a cap of $300. The money can be transferred to a bank account or loaded on prepaid debit cards.

City officials also announced the following updates:

  • 1,167 confirmed cases in the San Antonio area
  • 43 deaths in the San Antonio area
  • 36 confirmed cases in the Bexar County Jail

To read Thursday's entire COVID-19 brief, click here.

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