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Here's what we know...
Monday, April 27
Data visualizations are maintained and published by journalist Ronnie Garza on the website https://www.rgvcovid19info.com. Hover over the graph to view updated values.
9:30 p.m. – Hidalgo County reports fifth death, two new cases of COVID-19
A 63-year-old man from Alamo died after testing positive for the new coronavirus, Hidalgo County confirmed Monday evening.
“On a day filled with encouraging news such as having only two new positive cases, seeing the number of patients in our hospitals drop by four, and the number of patients in intensive care drop by three, we are reminded by this sad case that this disease can be deadly,” County Judge Richard F. Cortez said. “I extend my sincere condolences to this man’s family.”
This is the fifth known death related to the disease in Hidalgo County. All those who have died had underlying medical conditions, according to county officials.
The two new reports from Monday includes a case from Pharr in their 60s and a female from McAllen in her 70s.
Twenty people were "released from isolation" on Monday. There are 18 patients in Hidalgo County hospitals receiving care for COVID-19 with two in intensive care.
8:30 p.m. – Ten additional cases confirmed in Cameron County
Cameron County Public Health announced 10 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday evening. All the new reports are linked to a previous case except for one: a travel-related case found in a 63-year-old male from Brownsville.
There are five cases from Brownsville, three cases from Harlingen, and one case from La Feria. The first positive case from Olmito, Texas was reported on Monday: an 82-year-old woman who is linked to a previous case.
As of Monday, the total number of COVID-positive tests in Cameron County is 376. According to the county, "163 individuals have recovered" from COVID-19.
2:30 p.m. — Gov. Abbott says many Texas businesses will be allowed to reopen in May
Gov. Greg Abbott said he will allow his stay-at-home order to expire on April 30, meaning many retail stores in Texas will be allowed to reopen May 1. Restaurants, movie theaters, malls, libraries and museums can open in a limited capacity.
Abbott also said he hopes additional businesses like salons, gyms and bars will be able to open around May 15.
Watch the full press conference and read more about the Governor's comments here.
2 p.m. – Positive COVID-19 case in Starr County diagnosed through drive-thru testing
Starr County confirms its eighth case of COVID-19 after three weeks of no new reported cases. This most recent case was discovered through the county's drive-thru testing facility according to Starr County Health Authority Dr. Jose Vasquez.
The individual who tested positive is a man in his mid-30s from Rio Grande City, who likely contracted the virus through travel. He is currently in isolation and the only known active case in the community.
According to the county, the seven individuals who tested positive between March 26 and April 5 have been cleared and released from quarantine.
Community Helpline Numbers
Statewide COVID-19 Resources
- 2-1-1 (option 6)
Cameron County
- 956-247-3650 (24/7)
Hidalgo County
- 956-292-7765 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Willacy and Starr Counties
- 956-421-5505
CDC Guidelines in English and Spanish
