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, May 15
6:47 p.m. – A majority of new cases from congregate settings
Mayor Ron Nirenberg reported 2,120 total confirmed cases, up 79 from yesterday. Of the new cases, 22 are from the community, 44 from the Bexar County jail and two from other congregate settings. Thirteen cases have yet to be determined.
Roughly 50% of cases have recovered (1,071 total recoveries), and roughly 47% are still sick (987 people).
There have been three new deaths, bringing the total to 62.
In local hospitals, there are
- 70 people who have tested positive
- 16 under investigation
- 34 in intensive care
- 25 on ventilators
County Judge Nelson Wolff said there have been 326 total positive cases in the jail, most of which have been asymptomatic. Only 12 inmates are in the infirmary, and there are no cases from the jail in local hospitals.
NEISD Superintendent Sean Maika and SAISD Superintendent Pedro Martinez both spoke on what the fall semester will look like for students.
Both school districts plan to start the semester in August, but are working on ways to prioritize their students’ and faculty members’ healths, as well as include the city and state’s guidelines in their plans.
6:10 p.m. — Watch today's daily briefing
Thursday, May 14
6:48 p.m. — Bexar County surpasses 2,000 cases
Mayor Ron Nirenberg reported 2,041 confirmed cases, up 65 from yesterday. Of the new cases, 14 are from the community, eight from the Bexar County jail (seven inmates, one staff member) and 22 from congregate settings. The additional 21 are pending determination.
There has been one new death, bringing the total to 59. 1,051 people have recovered (51%), and 931 are still fighting the virus (46%).
There are 76 people in local hospitals with COVID-19-related illness: 65 who have tested positive and 11 under investigation.
There are 38 people in intensive care and 26 on ventilators.
County Judge Nelson Wolff announced that the 14th Court of Appeals voted to allow mail-in ballots for those concerned about COVID-19 in upcoming elections. In a 2-1 vote, the panel concluded that the coronavirus counts as a disability and is a legally valid reason to vote absentee.
6:10 p.m. — Watch today's daily briefing
2:30 p.m. — City Council votes down eviction ordinance
They San Antonio City Council voted down a 60-day "Right to Cure" ordinance meant to to protect tenants from evictions during the COVID-19 crisis.
The ordinance failed 5-6 and would have required landlords to give tenants 60 days to cure any inability to pay rent or come to an agreement before filing eviction. Multiple council members expressed concerns of legal action against the city.
San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg says the city will not turn its back on people in need.
Last month, the city council approved a rental assistance program.
The Texas Supreme Court and Bexar County have a moratorium on eviction filings until next Tuesday. The federal government has its own moratorium until July 24, but that is only for rental units using assistance like Section 8 vouchers.
Read more about the vote here.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines
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