Houston-area coronavirus coverage from March 16 to March 31

KPRC Staff

Published: April 6, 2020 at 4:17 PM

HOUSTON – See our full local coverage of the coronavirus outbreak in the Houston area between March 16 and March 31.

Tuesday, March 31

Monday, March 30

9:30 p.m. -- Harris County judge says officials could extend ‘stay home, work safe’ order Tuesday

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo made it clear Monday during a new conference that the “Stay Home, Work Safe” order issued last week will most likely be extended.

The current work order is set to expire on Friday, April 3 but Hidalgo said she expects to meet with officials, including Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, and make an announcement Tuesday.

Read more here.

6:21 p.m. -- Shelter-in-place ordered for retirement community in The Woodlands after 12 positive cases

Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough issued a shelter-in-place order Monday for a senior living facility in The Woodlands after there were 12 coronavirus cases confirmed there.

The order issued just after 6 p.m., goes into effect immediately, but residents have until 6 p.m. Tuesday to leave the facility, Conservatory at Alden Bridge. According to the order, if they leave to stay with family or friends, they must continue to self-quarantine and they will not be permitted to re-enter the property until April 13.

Read more here.

6:12 p.m. -- United Memorial Medical Center expands drive-thru testing facility at Smart Finacial Center in Sugar Land

Starting Tuesday, a new testing facility will be opened by the United Memorial Medical Center at the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land.

“Additionally, United Memorial Medical Center Tidwelllocation will launch their 46-bed COVID-19 Annex dedicated to the care of COVID-19patients,” officials wrote.

A mobile COVID-19 testing effort will also begin to reach seniors who are unable to leave their homes.

5:30 p.m. -- Fort Bend County investigates after 2 cases at Richmond State Supported Living Center

Fort Bend County health officials have launched an epidemiologic investigation at Richmond State Supported Living Center after two people tested positive at the facility.

Both patients are in their 60s and are currently hospitalized, officials wrote.

“The residents at the Richmond State Supported Living Center represent some of the most vulnerable members of our community," said Dr. Jacquelyn Minter. “We have received support from Texas Department of State Health Services in order to test and investigate all contacts to these cases.”

5:10 p.m. -- Houston-area coronavirus cases top 1,000

Since the first days of March, the Houston-area coronavirus cases have ballooned to more than 1,000, across multiple counties.

Read 10 things to know as we cross this mark.

3:30 p.m. -- 12 Harris County Sheriff’s Office employees test positive

As of Monday afternoon, 12 Harris County Sheriff's Office employees have tested positive for coronavirus, officials announced.

Both of the newest positive cases are male deputies assigned to patrol– one in his late 20s and the other in his late 40s.

The deputy in his 40s last worked on duty on March 21. He is now quarantined at home. A sergeant in his early 30s, worked in the 1200 Baker Street jail facility. His last day on duty was March 22. He is now quarantined at home.

Previously reported cases include:

A deputy in his late 40s
A sergeant in his early 30s
A sergeant in his early 70s
A male deputy in his mid-50s
A male deputy in his late 20s
A female deputy in her late 20s
A male deputy in his early 3 0s
A male civilian clerk employee in his late 20s
A male deputy in his late 60s
A female deputy in her late 20s

1 p.m. -- Matagorda County officials give update on coronavirus outbreak

Officials with the Matagorda County Emergency Operation Center will hold a Facebook live Monday afternoon to give an update on the coronavirus update in the county.

According to the emergency center, there are currently 20 positive cases, 223 negative cases and 117 pending cases.

The first coronavirus-related death was in Matagorda. He was a man in his late 90s.

You can watch the news conference on their Facebook page:

11:30 a.m. -- Harris County Tax Office announces it is giving property owners a 3-month break in delinquent property tax payments

Harris County officials announced the Tax Office is providing a three-month extension of all 12-month delinquent property tax payment plans as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Due to our area’s current health crisis and resulting economic uncertainties, property owners who are currently on 12-month property tax payment plans will not have to make payments for three months,” said Ann Harris Bennett, the Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector & Voter Registrar. “Unfortunately, state law mandates that the appropriate late fees must still be assessed. However, I hope this extension helps ease property owners’ burdens during this critical time.”

Property owners may call 713-274-8000, or send an email to tax.office@hctx.net for additional information.

11:15 a.m. -- Brazoria County reports first coronavirus death

Officials in Brazoria County reported the county’s first coronavirus death Monday.

The victim was a 75- to 85-year-old woman who lived in the Pearland area, officials said.

This brings the number of COVID-19 deaths in the Greater Houston area to 9.

You can read more about all of the cases here.

10:06 a.m. -- Gov. Abbott issues new travel restrictions for people coming to Texas

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced new travel restrictions in an executive order for people coming to Texas. He also announced pop-up hospitals and that he was moving to “stop the release of dangerous felons” amid the outbreak. Read more here.

9:16 a.m. -- Eight League City employees test positive for COVID-19, officials say

Eight League City employees have tested positive for COVID-19 — seven from the fire administration and one from the League City Police Department, officials said. Officials said the fire administration employees are all from the fire marshal’s office along with the city’s fire chief whose office is in the same building. Officials said they are still awaiting results on several other employees whose office in the fire administration building is currently under quarantine.

The LCPD officer is a shift commander and the city has taken all precautions and steps to notify and quarantine any individuals who may have been in direct contact or are at risk of exposure with this individual officials said.

League City officials said they have also brought in a professional team for thorough cleaning and deep sanitization of offices, work stations, buildings, and vehicles.

Sunday, March 29

11:25 p.m. — METRO confirms 2 employees tested positive for coronavirus, cancels all park & rides except to the TMC

Two METRO employees have tested positive for coronavirus. The first employee works in the dispatch area and has no interaction with the public. The employee was last on the job on March 26.

The second employee is a bus operator and was last on the job on March 25.

The bus operator drove the 412 Greenlink Circulator route from 6 a.m. until 2:17 p.m. on the following days; March 9,10, 11,12, 13, 16, 17,18,19, 20 and 23. The operator also drove the 247 Fuqua Park & Ride from 6:18 a.m. to 9:17 a.m. on March 24 and 25.

Anyone riding those routes in the last 14 days should monitor themselves for possible symptoms. Contact your health care provider as soon as you develop any symptoms, and self-isolate to avoid possibly exposing others, including refraining from using public transportation.

METRO announced additional adjustments amid the spread of coronavirus. All park and rides routes, expect those serving the Texas Medical Center, are suspended.

The bus company also plans to intensify its cleaning schedule and bring in even more staff to disinfect buses at the transit center during midday. This move is in addition to the daily cleaning performed outside of service hours.

To view the service adjustment, visit here.

5:30 p.m. — Fort Bend County confirms 14 new positive cases, bringing the county’s total to 119.

Fort Bend Health reported 14 new positive cases of coronavirus, bringing the county’s total to 119.

The county confirmed nine people have recovered, while one resident died.

Check out the Fort Bend coronavirus tracker, here.

4:30 p.m. — Galveston County confirms 10 new positive cases, bringing the county’s total to 70.

Galveston County Health District reported 10 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the county’s total to 70.

Here is what we know about the new cases:

A female in her 70s with no recent travel or contact with a known positive COVID-19 case, exposed by community spread. She is hospitalized.
A female in her 40s with no recent travel or contact with a known positive COVID-19 case, exposed by community spread. She is self-quarantined.
A male in his 40s with no recent travel or contact with a known positive COVID-19 case, exposed by community spread. He is self-quarantined
A female in her 40s who had contact with a known positive COVID-19 case. She is self-quarantined.
A female in her 40s with no recent travel or contact with a known positive COVID-19 case, exposed by community spread. She is self-quarantined.
A male in his 30s who had contact with a known positive Galveston County COVID-19 case. He is self-quarantined.
A female in her 30s who had contact with a known positive Harris County COVID-19 case. She is self-quarantined.
A female in her 20s with no recent travel or contact with a known positive COVID-19 case, exposed by community spread. She is self-quarantined.
A female in her 30s with no recent travel or contact with a known positive COVID-19 case, exposed by community spread. She is self-quarantined.
A male in his 20s with no recent travel or contact with a known positive COVID-19 case, exposed by community spread. He is self-quarantined.

3:55 p.m. — Harris County confirms 2nd coronavirus-related death

Harris County Public Health reported the second COVID-19 related death of a resident.

The woman, between 50 to 60 years old, lived in the northwest quadrant of Harris County. She had known exposure to a confirmed case and had underlying health issues. The woman was tested for coronavirus after her death. Health officials confirmed the primary cause of death as COVID-19.

Harris County has a total of 240 positive cases, including 34 patients that have recovered.

3:45 p.m. — Houston reports 54 new positive cases, bringing the city’s total to 286.

Houston Health Department confirmed 54 new positive coronavirus cases, bringing the city’s total to 286.

3:02 p.m. — Montgomery County confirms 2 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total to 65.

Montgomery County Public Health District confirmed two new positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the county’s total to 65.

The county also announced one new recovery.

1:33 p.m. — First Harris County Jail inmate tests positive for COVID-19, officials say

Officials with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Sunday reported that a Harris County Jail inmate tested positive for COVID-19.

The inmate, a 39-year-old man, was booked into the jail on March 17 after being arrested by the Houston Police Department for a parole violation. The man was placed in quarantine on March 26 after jail medical staff conducting a standard health assessment detected an elevated temperature and a high pulse rate, officials said in a statement.

The man is in stable condition in the medical unit at the 1200 Baker Street jail facility.

There are about 30 other inmates in the Harris County Jail with symptoms consistent with COVID-19, officials said.

Some 500 inmates, who are not currently experiencing symptoms, were potentially exposed to the virus are in quarantine for observation.

As of Sunday, 5 inmate tests have come back negative.

“The Harris County Sheriff’s Office medical staff and detention staff are taking every possible precaution to manage the spread of COVID- 19 among our nearly 8,000 inmates,” said Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. “Despite their heroic efforts, we know this insidious virus is nearly impossible to contain in a jail environment. I am in awe of the efforts of our team, and I remain especially concerned for the safety of those who show up for their shifts each day, knowing the risk to themselves and their families.”

11:45 a.m. — Brazos County reports 2nd coronavirus-related death along with 4 additional cases

Officials with the Brazos County Health District reported the county’s second coronavirus-related death Sunday.

The resident was a woman in her 90s who tested positive for COVID-19.

The report of her death comes less than a day after the county announced its first coronavirus-related death Saturday evening. The man was in his 80s and in hospice care.

On Sunday, Officials with the Brazos County Health District also confirmed 4 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the county’s total number of cases to 44.

Saturday, March 28

8:45 p.m. — Galveston Fire confirms 2 employees tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the department’s total to 3.

Galveston Fire Department reported two employees have tested positive for coronavirus, bringing the department’s total to three.

The department tested 26 employees at one facility after another employee tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this week. Of those returned, two individuals tested positive while 17 others tested negative. Seven others are pending.

The three employees, who tested positive, are self-quarantined.

8:30 p.m. — Houston Police Department confirms 3 new cases, bringing the department’s total to 10.

Houston Police Department Chief Art Acevedo reported three new officers tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the department’s total to 10.

He said one officer remains hospitalized while 220 officers are quarantined.

7:50 p.m. — Austin County confirms 1 new case, bringing the county’s total to 2.

Austin County confirms one new positive case for coronavirus, bringing the county’s total case to 2.

5:45 p.m. — Chambers County confirms 2 new cases, bringing the county’s total to 5.

Chambers County Public Health reports two new coronavirus cases, bringing the county’s total to five.

The male patient is between 65-75 years old and lives in Mid Chambers County. The female patient is between 20-30 years old and lives in West Chambers County. Neither case is travel related.

After today, new positive cases will be updated at 5 p.m. daily on the Chambers County Public Health COVID-19 Page.

5:20 p.m. — Fort Bend County confirms 4 new cases, bringing the county’s total to 105.

Fort Bend Health confirms four new coronavirus cases in the county and one new patient recovery. The county has 105 total cases, plus nine total recoveries.

Check out the Fort Bend County coronavirus tracker, here.

4:45 p.m. — Brazos County confirms 1st death and 9 new coronavirus cases, bringing the county’s total to 40.

Brazos County Health District confirmed nine positive coronavirus cases in the county, bringing the case total to 40.

The county also confirmed its first coronavirus-related death: a man in his 80s, who was in hospice care.

Find more information about the case breakdown, here.

4:30 p.m. — Galveston County confirms 11 new coronavirus cases, bringing the county’s total to 60.

Galveston County Health District announced 11 additional positive cases in Galveston County residents, bringing the county’s case total to 60. The county also confirmed one patient recovery.

Here is what we know about the new cases:

A female in her 50s with no recent travel or contact with a known positive COVID-19 case, believed community spread. She is self-quarantined.
A male in his 30s with recent domestic and international travel. He is self-quarantined.
A male in his 60s with recent international travel. He is self-quarantined.
A male in his 50s who had contact with a known positive COVID-19 case. He is hospitalized.
A female in her 20s with no recent travel or contact with a known positive COVID-19 case, believed community spread. She is self-quarantined.
A female age 10-20 with recent international travel. She is self-quarantined.
A male age 10-20 with no recent travel or contact with a known positive COVID-19 case, believed community spread. He is self-quarantined.
A male in his 70s with no recent travel or contact with a known positive COVID-19 case, believed community spread. He is self-quarantined.
A male in his 30s who had contact with a known positive Galveston County COVID-19 case. He is self-quarantined.
A female in her 40s who had contact with a known positive Galveston County COVID-19 case. She is self-quarantined.
A male in his 60s with no recent travel or contact with a known positive COVID-19 case, believed community spread. He is hospitalized.

4:05 p.m. — Missouri City council member shares he tested positive for coronavirus

Jeffrey Boney, a Missouri City council member, shared on Facebook that he tested positive for COVID-19.

After experiencing coronavirus-related symptoms in March, Boney said he was tested for the coronavirus and the results came back positive Friday, March 27.

He said he is currently in the intensive care unit.

“I want to be extremely clear with you… I am in great spirits and I plan to overcome this temporary challenge. But, please know that this is a very serious epidemic and anyone is susceptible,” Boney wrote.

3:50 p.m. — Polk County confirm 1st coronavirus case in the county

Polk County Emergency Management confirms the first resident tested positive for coronavirus.

The Angelina County & Cities Health District is advising those directly exposed to self-quarantine and monitor themselves for flu-like symptoms.

Contact the Polk County Coronavirus Call Center at 936-630-8500, if you need information or are experiencing flu-like symptoms.

3:30 p.m. — Washington County confirm 6 total cases in the county

Washington County officials confirmed the county has six total cases.

2:55 pm. — Montgomery County confirms 16 new cases, bringing the county’s total to 63.

Montgomery County Public Health District confirmed 16 positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the county’s total to 63.

The county’s second positive patient, who was previously hospitalized in critical condition, has been released from the hospital, officials said. She is expected to make a full recovery at home.

As of right now, Montgomery County has 368 negative results and 169 pending tests.

1:40 p.m. — Houston officials announce 163 new confirmed cases, bringing city’s total to 232

The Houston Health Department announced Saturday 163 more confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing Houston’s total to 232. The jump in cases from 69 on Friday to 232 Saturday is a result of a batch of reports received from area medical providers, department officials said in a release.

1:15 p.m. — 3 new Houston Police Department officers tested positive, bringing the department’s total to 7.

Mayor Sylvester Turner confirmed Saturday three Houston Police officers tested positive for coronavirus, bringing the department’s total to 7.

1:00 p.m. — 2nd Houston resident with COVID-19 dies; Mayor expects number of confirmed cases to rise

A Houstonian with COVID-19 has died, Mayor Sylvester Turner said in a press conference Saturday. The patient was a woman in her 70s. Her identity has not been released.

Dr. David Persse, of the Houston Health Department, said the woman was hospitalized, and her test results came back positive the same day she passed.

Turner also said he expects the number of confirmed cases in Houston to rise from 69 to over 200.

11:40 a.m. — Brazoria County confirms 9 new cases of COVID-19, bringing county’s total to 61

The Brazoria County Health Department confirmed nine new cases of COVID-19 in the county Saturday, bringing the county’s total to 61.

11 a.m. — 190 HPD employees in quarantine; 4 officers test positive for the coronavirus

At present, the Houston Police Department has 190 employees in self-quarantine and four patrol officers who have tested positive for the virus. One of the officers who tested positive is currently hospitalized, according to the department.

9:50 a.m. — 1 HFD firefighter tests positive for new coronavirus; 70 others currently quarantined

At present, the Houston Fire Department has 71 firefighters total in quarantine and one positive COVID-19 case. 17 firefighters are currently quarantining in a hotel, said Sheldra Brighma, a public information officer with the Houston fire Department.

Friday, March 27

7:40 p.m. — Houston police officer with coronavirus hospitalized

Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo announced that one of the four Houston police officers who tested positive for coronavirus has been hospitalized.

“Please pray for all impacted by this virus at HPD, and across the globe,” Acevedo tweeted.

7 p.m. — Montgomery County issues county-wide curfew

As part of the stay home order, Montgomery County has issued a county-wide curfew from 12 a.m. to 6 a.m. The curfew will be in effect beginning overnight going into Saturday and will continue till April 12.

Only "essential" personnel, defined in the order, who need to travel within the county will be exempt from the curfew order.

People who need medical care are also exempt from the order.

4:50 p.m. — Two more Harris County Sheriff’s deputies tests positive for coronavirus

The Harris County Sheriff's Office announced two more deputies tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the department total to eight.

"One of the two most recent cases is a sergeant is in his early 70s, who works in patrol. His last day on duty was March 18. He is now quarantined at home," HCSO wrote in a press release. "The second recent case is a male deputy in his mid-50s and is a part-time employee assigned to the property room. His last day on duty was March 12. He is now quarantined at home."

All the other HCSO employees who tested positive were deputies, barring one civilian clerk.

4:45 p.m. — Texas Medical Center moves to no visitor policy

The Texas Medical Center announced a no-visitor policy, as part of its efforts to mitigate the spread of coronavirus and protect patients, healthcare workers and staff.

"Pediatric hospitals and units will be generally exempted from these restrictions. Individual exceptions will be managed by each institution," hospital officials wrote in a release. "Compassionate exceptions will be reviewed for visitors 18 years of age and over for situations that include visiting a patient with a terminal condition, patients requiring a legal guardian, and for patients with disabilities. Hospitals also will consider exceptions for the NICU, maternity and postpartum units, and life-saving care."

See a list of hospitals and restrictions here.

3:28 p.m. -- Fort Bend County coronavirus death

Fort Bend County officials announced its first coronavirus related death. No details on the patient were provided.

2:27 p.m. -- Matagorda County confirms another positive coronavirus case

Matagorda County officials have confirmed one additional positive case of coronavirus in the county, bringing the county’s total cases to 10. The woman is between the ages 50 and 55 who us isolated at home. Officials said the case is not travel related.

2:07 p.m. -- Three Brazoria County residents hospitalized after coronavirus complications

Brazoria County officials announced Friday that three of the 39 people who have been diagnosed with the coronavirus have been hospitalized after starting in home isolation.

11:49 p.m. -- Montgomery County issues stay at home order

Montgomery County has issued a “Stay home, stop the spread” order. The order will go into effect tonight at 11:59 p.m. until April 12.

All residents will be ordered to stay a home except for essential activities. To see which business or activity is essential in the county, click here.

10:48 a.m. -- 3 more coronavirus cases reported in Brazos County

Three additional cases of coronavirus were reported Friday in Brazos County.

No details were provided about the cases.

This brings the total number of COVID-19 cases in the county to 31.

The total in the Greater Houston area is now at 464.

You can read more about the cases here.

6:10 a.m. -- U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher self-quarantined after being tested for coronavirus

U.S. Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-Houston) said Thursday that she is self-quarantined after being tested for coronavirus.

Fletcher said in a written statement that she underwent the test after suffering from flu-like symptoms, including a fever of 101 degrees.

The congresswoman said she will continue to work from home while she awaits test results.

“Representing Texas’ Seventh Congressional District and making sure our community has the resources it needs to combat coronavirus together is my highest priority,” Fletcher said in the statement. “I will continue to work from home, as I have been, advocating for the needs of our community and working to solve problems with my colleagues in Congress and our partners here at home.”

Fletcher took office last year.

Thursday, March 26

7 p.m. — Legendary Houston rapper Scarface announces he tested positive for COVID-19

Houston-area rapper Scarface brought bad news to his fans Thursday. He has tested positive for the coronavirus.

The former Geto Boys member, whose real name is Brad Jordan, announced the news in an interview with fellow member Willie D on his YouTube channel, which sent a shockwave to fans tuning in. See the full interview here.

6 p.m. — Houston news anchor tests positive for coronavirus

KTRK’s anchor Chauncy Glover announced on his Facebook page that he tested positive for the coronavirus. Glover got tested after he said he woke up in the middle of the night in sweats and experiencing a tight feeling in his chest, fever and body aches.

“A week later, I got the call saying I tested positive for the Coronavirus. I’m now home recovering. Thankfully, I’m feeling better, and through the worst part. I’m so blessed. God was with me. He always is!” Glover posted on his Facebook page.

5:30 p.m. — Mayor Sylvester Turner announces the first coronavirus death in Houston

A woman in her 60s was announced as the first person to die of coronavirus in the Houston area. An autopsy revealed the woman had the virus, which officials said was traveled related. The woman’s death brings the area total deaths to three. Read more about the 18 deaths reported in Texas so far.

3 p.m. — Harris County officials gives update

Edit Info

1 p.m. -- Brazos County reports 7 new coronavirus cases

Health officials in Brazos County reported seven new cases of coronavirus Thursday.

That brings the total number of cases in the county to 28.

The Houston-area total now stands at 379.

You can read more about all of the reported cases here.

12:45 p.m. -- Gov. Greg Abbott gives update on coronavirus pandemic in Texas

Gov. Gregg Abbott will hold a press conference addressing the state of Texas Thursday during the coronavirus pandemic.

On Wednesday, President Donald Trump granted a Major Disaster Declaration for the state, which will expand the resources available to Texas and speed the state’s ability to robustly respond to the coronavirus.

Click2Houston.com will offer a livestream when the news conference begins at 2 p.m.

10:24 a.m. -- Memorial City Mall hosting 2 emergency blood drives

Memorial City Mall will host two emergency blood drives.

The first Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center drive is scheduled from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, and the second is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Appointments are required in order to donate blood. Friday appointment information can be found here. Saturday appointment information can be found here.

Organizers said the drive is considered essential under the Harris County stay-home-work-safe order.

9:32 a.m. -- YMCA offering members options on memberships

The YMCA of Greater Houston said Thursday they are offering members options on their dues.

The non-profit said more than 3,500 workers have been furloughed because of the pandemic.

Dues will not be drafted until at least April 15, according to the non-profit.

The YMCA Cares team have been calling members to give them the following options regarding their dues:

Keep membership dues as they are because of the other programs the Y is still operating (primarily child care for healthcare and first responders).
Suspend dues payments until the Y can offer the services they most use.
Cancel membership.

Other gyms have also been altering their policies to deal with the coronavirus pandemic.

You can read more about those changes here.

6:20 a.m. – Polk County issues stay-home order

Officials in Polk County have issued a stay-home order as they work to slow the spread of coronavirus.

The order goes into effect at 11:59 p.m. Friday and remains in effect until 11:59 p.m. April 3.

It’s very similar to the stay-home-work-safe order that began in Harris County on Wednesday.

The Polk County order requires everyone to stay home unless they are conducting essential activities or governmental functions. Only businesses that have been deemed essential are allowed to be open and restaurants are only allowed to provide take-out or delivery. Houses of worship must switch to online or telephone-based services. Public gatherings are prohibited. Social distancing is also required.

Click here to read the order.

Wednesday, March 25

9:50 p.m. — Chambers County confirms a new coronavirus case, bringing the county’s total to 2.

Chambers County Public Health confirms a new case of coronavirus. The female patient is between 40 to 50 years old and lives in west Chambers County. She is at home, isolated and in stable condition. This case was not traveled related.

9 p.m. — HISD cancels food distribution for Thursday and Friday

The Houston Independent School District announced that it is canceling food distribution for Thursday and Friday as coronavirus spread mitigation precautions intensify.

“The cancellation will remain in effect as the district re-evaluates its process for safely delivering this service to students and families,” school district officials wrote. “This is a difficult decision to make, but the safety of the community, staff, and volunteers is our top priority.”

Read more here.

4:38 p.m. — Man jailed in Humble is state’s first inmate to test positive

The first case of coronavirus in Texas’ jail system was confirmed Tuesday.

According to a news release, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice is treating a 37-year-old offender who has tested positive for the new coronavirus.

The inmate has been hospitalized at Hospital Galveston – where he is being treated -- for three days. He reported feeling shortness of breath and cough while in custody at the Lychner State Jail Atascocita.

Read more here.

2:25 p.m. – Abbott provides update on Texas current status during pandemic

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced that as of Tuesday 715 Texans have tested positive for the coronavirus and there have been 11 deaths.

Abbott said more than 11,000 Texans have been tested and that number is expected to increase as more tests become available. He said Texas has also created a Strike Force to help distribute and to order more protective equipment for those testing or treating coronavirus patients.

Abbott said currently, 100,000 masks are being provided and the Strike Force will get an additional 100,000 masks a day. He said Texas should be getting more than a million masks a week.

For those who want to donate supplies or volunteer, such as active or retired doctors and nurses, to visit www.texas.gov, Abbott said.

Abbott also announced a new executive order for all all hospitals, excluding psychiatric hospitals, to submit daily reports on hospital bed capacity to DSHS who will then share this information with the CDC.

12:14 p.m. -- Houston-area coronavirus cases hit 200 mark

A new coronavirus case reported in Brazoria County on Tuesday has pushed the number of cases in the Houston area to 200.

The newest case was found in a 50- to 60-year-old woman in Lake Jackson. She is in stable condition and recovering in isolation at home.

This brings Brazoria County’s total number of coronavirus cases to 19.

You can read more about all of the cases here.

10:28 a.m. -- Houston firefighter tests positive for COVID-19, department says

A Houston firefighter has tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently self-quarantined at home, the department said.

Officials said the firefighter began having symptoms within 24 hours after his shift on Tuesday, March 17 and follow-up testing showed he was positive for the virus.

The firefighter was not under current self-monitoring or quarantine with HFD, officials said. The department said twelve other firefighters who had contact with the individual at the station have been instructed to self-quarantine.

The Houston Health Department said they are working with the HFD to contact anyone else with whom the firefighter had contact. The station where the firefighter worked is being decontaminated, officials said.

7:55 a.m. -- Alief ISD employee tests positive for COVID-19, district says; MD Anderson suspends laboratory research after staff member tests positive for the virus

Alief ISD has been notified that a female in her 40‘s who works for Owens Intermediate School has been diagnosed as positive with COVID-19, the district said Tuesday.

The district said Owens Intermediate School continues to be deeply sanitized and although schools and offices have been closed since March 13 and remain closed at this time, all Alief ISD employees and students have been instructed to continue to follow CDC guidelines and recommendations and to continue to practice social distancing.

It has been determined that the end of the 14-day incubation period for anyone possibly exposed to the employee on campus is Thursday, March 26, the district said.

Alief ISD officials said they are continuing to monitor the situation and will provide additional information as needed.

MD Anderson leaders suspended laboratory research after a member of its research staff tested positive for COVID-19, officials said.

Officials said the staff member is being cared for by another health care institution in Houston.

According to MD Anderson, the individual worked in one of MD Anderson’s research labs, had no patient contact and is not involved in any clinical care activities.

All employees exposed to the staff member were contacted and are undergoing monitoring and self-quarantine, MD Anderson said.

5:21 a.m. — Houston-area Amazon worker tests positive for COVID-19, company confirms

A Houston-area Amazon worker who tested for COVID-19 is recovering in quarantine, the company said.

Officials said the individual, a member of the management team working from a location at 10 West Blvd. in Katy, is receiving medical care.

A spokesperson said the company is following all guidelines from local officials about the operation at the building and is taking extreme measures to ensure the safety of those at the building.

All Amazon employees diagnosed with COVID-19 or placed into quarantine will receive up to two weeks of pay, the company said.

5:46 a.m. — Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, Mayor Turner announce press conference regarding COVID-19 related announcement

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Houston mayor Sylvester Turner are holding a press conference regarding a COVID-19 related announcement Tuesday.

The press conference will take place at 8:15 a.m.

At a press conference Tuesday, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo said there is no shelter-in-place order for the county, but it is possible that one could be issued in the future.

Hidalgo said she was in conversations with Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and judges from neighboring counties to determine whether such a measure would be executed should it be issued. She said officials are doing their “due diligence” before deciding whether such an order would be issued.

Read more here.

Monday, March 23

11:22 p.m. — Matagorda County announces two more cases of coronavirus

“The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has notified The Matagorda County Emergency Operations Center that one of our private physicians has two individuals that have tested positive for the COVID-19,” officials wrote. “One patient is a male and is between 55 and 65 years old and the second patient is also male between the ages of 18 and 25.”

Both patients are self-quarantining at home and are in stable condition.

9 p.m. — Houston Mayor, Harris County Judge to make announcement Tuesday morning

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo will hold a press conference at 8:15 a.m. Tuesday to make a “COVID-19 related announcement.”

While they said other health officials will also speak at the press conference, officials didn’t detail what the announcement might be.

6:40 p.m. — Galveston County issued stay-at-home order

Galveston County has become the first county in the Houston area to issue a “stay-at-home order," Monday evening.

County Judge Mark Henry issued the order to ensure people only go out for necessary reasons such as work, physician visits, grocery shopping or to pick up meals.

The city of Santa Fe announced the order prematurely. The county is expected to release the official order Monday evening. Read more here.

6:30 p.m. — Landry’s to offer free meals to employees

6:21 p.m. — 3 HPD officers test positive

Three Houston police officers have tested positive for coronavirus, according to HPD Chief Art Acevedo.

All three are patrol officers and are in quarantine. Acevedo told KPRC 2 it is believed all three officers came into contact with an infected person on the job.

All officers and staff who came in contact with the three positive officers have been placed on quarantine.

"As part of our protocol that we put into place, the officers when they thought they were exposed they were actually sent directly home,” Acevedo said.

A total of 190 employees of HPD, including officers and civilians, have been asked to self-quarantine, mostly because of their recent travels.

The three officers with coronavirus are “doing well,” Acevedo said.

“The department is functioning on eight cylinders and I’m happy to say, thanks to the people of Houston, our call volume is flat. We’ve seen any major increases,” Acevedo said.

5:32 p.m. — Substance abuse counselor who visited inmates at Richmond prison tests positive

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice announced Monday that a contract employee of Management and Training Corporation tested positive for coronavirus.

The employee, a substance abuse counselor, passed all unit entry screenings and attended a training session with other employees on March 17. Officials said the employee had cell side counseling visits with a “limited number of restricted housing offenders at the Jester 1 Unit in Richmond.”

Officials said the employee went home early that day and visited a doctor who issued him a clear to work note. The employee returned to work on March 21 and saw more inmates in restrictive housing, officials said. The inmates were behind a door and had no physical contact with the employee, officials said.

The employee discovered he was tested for the coronavirus Sunday afternoon and was ordered to self-quarantine, officials said.

The TDCJ said it received the lab results Monday morning.

5 p.m. — Chambers County issues curfew for residents

Chambers County has issued a revision to its executive order to “more closely align” with Gov. Greg Abbott’s guidance.

According to a news release, the new ordinance will take effect Tuesday. See the curfew and business guidelines here.

4:15 p.m. — TSU announces staff member tests positive for coronavirus

“Earlier today, we learned that a member of the Texas Southern University community has been diagnosed with COVID-19, the first confirmed case within our university community,” officials wrote in a statement to members of the TSU community.

The staff member in question is currently hospitalized and is receiving treatment, officials wrote.

“In order to be compliant with the latest COVID-19 guidelines, we are asking our faculty and staff to not report to campus unless you have received approval from your supervisor,” officials wrote. “Instead, we are asking that employees stay at home and work remotely, based on direction from your supervisor.”

1:45 p.m. -- 10,000 masks donated to Houston by Asian Chamber of Commerce

The Asian Chamber of Commerce donated a large batch of medical supplies Monday to the city of Houston.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said the donation included 10,000 masks, 40 gallons of sanitizer, gowns goggles, face shields, boot covers and gloves.

Dr. David Persse, of the Houston Health Department, said the equipment will first be distributed to the Fire Department, Police Department and Health Department. He said the donations will help restock items that have been used at a much faster rate in the past few days.

Turner said he understands more medical equipment is on the way.

1:21 p.m. -- Mayor says leaders ‘thinking through’ next steps of coronavirus response

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said Monday he and other leaders across the region are “thinking through” the next steps of the area’s coronavirus response.

Turner said that while there is no shelter-in-place order in effect for Houston people should continue to practice social distancing and stay home as much as possible.

The mayor’s comments came a day after the judge of Dallas County ordered people in that county to stay home, saying he expects Harris County will do something similar “very soon.”

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo said Monday morning that no such order is in effect, but it’s not off the table.

Turner said he had some problems with the Dallas County order, which contained a “laundry list” of exceptions to the order. He said expects a decision on whether such an order would be issued for Houston within the next day.

12:47 p.m. -- Houston mayor provides coronavirus update

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner has scheduled a news conference Monday afternoon to discuss the city’s response to the coronavirus.

During the 1 p.m. briefing, Turner will also accept a large donation of medical supplies from the Asian Chamber of Commerce and other individuals.

Click2Houston.com plans to offer a livestream of the event when it begins.

11:28 a.m. – New coronavirus cases reported in Brazoria, Galveston counties

New cases of coronavirus were reported in Brazoria and Galveston counties Monday morning.

Brazoria County officials reported two more cases while Galveston County officials reported five more.

This brings the total number of COVID-19 cases to 16 in Brazoria County and 17 in Galveston County.

The total number of cases reported in the Greater Houston area is at 173.

10:04 a.m. – No Harris County shelter-in-place for now; 2 new testing sites open

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo said there is no shelter-in-place order for the county for now, but it is possible that one could be issued in the future.

Hidalgo said she is in conversations with Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and judges from neighboring counties to determine how such a measure would be executed should it be issued. She said officials are doing their “due diligence.”

The judge also announced that two new drive-thru testing sites have been opened in Harris County to test people who have been prescreened for coronavirus before being sent to the sites. These sites are not open for walk-up testing, Hidalgo said.

For prescreening, people can go to ReadyHarris.org or call 832-927-7575. If testing is needed, the person will be given a unique ID number and directions to a testing site.

Hidalgo said she is working to integrate the Harris County testing sites with the city of Houston site that was open last week.

9:18 a.m. – Harris County judge to provide update on coronavirus response

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo has scheduled a 9:30 a.m. Monday news conference to discuss the county’s response to the coronavirus.

A topic that she is sure to be asked about is the statement made Sunday by the judge of Dallas County while he was issuing a shelter-in-place order for that county. He indicated that Harris County is expected to do something similar “very soon.”

Click2Houston.com will offer a livestream of Hidalgo’s news conference when it begins.

7:26 a.m. -- 8 more coronavirus recoveries reported in Harris County

Eight more people in Harris County who had contracted coronavirus have recovered from their illness, according to data provided Monday morning by Harris County Public Health.

This brings the total number of recoveries in the county to 11.

A total of 51 cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Harris County, including a nursing home resident who died from the virus.

More than 160 coronavirus cases have been reported in the Greater Houston area. Read more about all of the cases in the region here.

Sunday, March 22

8:30 p.m. — Walker County is reporting the first case of coronavirus

Walker County announces its first case of coronavirus.

The patient is a male, in his 20s, and the source of the exposure is still under investigation. He was tested outside of Walker County. He is experiencing mild symptoms and has been isolated at home.

8:15 p.m. — Brazos County confirms 2 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total to 12.

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6:45 p.m. — Congressman Al Green distributes N95 masks to Houston healthcare workers and requests more

Congressman Al Green distributed 8,000 of high-demand N95 masks to Houston health officials. Green also made a plea to the public to secure additional masks.

He said many industries, such as dentistry, construction and education, may have N95 masks in stock. He urged the public to check to see if there are any unused masks in their possession that could be given to healthcare workers.

If anyone has any N95 masks, Green requests them to contact his office at 713-383-9234.

“This is an opportunity for all of us to pitch in and do our part to help this country recover,” Green said during a press conference Sunday.

4:30 p.m. — Katy ISD providing thousands of free meals to children

Katy ISD served more than 33,000 free meals, both breakfast and lunch, to families in the Katy area last week. For this upcoming week, the district will move one distribution site and add a new school. Katy ISD will also provide a hot entree for the lunch meal, beginning Tuesday. The distribution will remain grab-and-go curbside.

All Katy-area children, up to 18 years old, can receive the meals. Children do not need to be enrolled in Katy ISD.

“During this closure we want students to continue receiving their meals as well as the nutrients they need to stay healthy,” said Katy ISD Executive Director of Nutrition and Food Services, Donna Pittenger.

The meals are served at the campuses from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Monday and Friday.

Meal ‘Grab and Go’ Locations:

Bear Creek Elementary: 4815 Hickory Downs Dr, Houston, TX 77084
Golbow Elementary: 3535 Lakes of Bridgewater Dr, Katy, TX 77449
Hutsell Elementary: 5360 Franz Rd, Katy, TX 77493
Mayde Creek Elementary: 2698 Greenhouse Rd, Houston, TX 77084
Memorial Parkway Elementary: 21603 Park Tree Ln, Katy, TX 77450
Paetow High School*: 23111 Stockdick School Road, Katy, TX 77493
Schmalz Elementary*: 18605 Green Land Way, Houston, TX 77084
Sundown Elementary: 20100 Saums Rd, Katy, TX 77449
West Memorial Elementary: 22605 Provincial Blvd, Katy, TX 77450
Williams Elementary: 3900 S. Peek Rd, Katy, TX 77450
Tompkins High School: 4400 Falcon Landing Blvd, Katy, TX 77494

*Beginning Monday, curbside meal service will move from Bethke Elementary to Paetow High School. On Wednesday, Schmalz Elementary will begin distributing “grab and go” meals.

4:15 p.m. — Harris County confirms 5 new positive coronavirus cases, bringing the county’s count total to 51.

Harris County Public Health announced five new COVID-19 cases.

Here is a breakdown of the new cases:

A 30- to 39-year-old woman, who lives in the northwest quadrant of Harris Count, exposed through community spread.
A 50- to 59-year-old man, who lives in the northwest quadrant of Harris County, exposed by contact with a positive COVID-19 individual.
A 40- to 49-year-old man, who lives in the northwest quadrant of Harris County, exposed through community spread.
A 20- to 29-year-old man, who lives in the northwest quadrant of Harris County, exposed through community spread.
A 40 to 49-year-old man, who lives in the southwest quadrant of Harris County, exposed through community spread.

4:06 p.m. — Galveston County confirms 1 new case, bringing the county’s total to 12

Galveston County Health District announced a new case, bringing the county’s case total to 12.

A female Galveston County resident in her 40s, who recently traveled internationally and had contact with a positive coronavirus patient. She visited an area clinic and is currently self-quarantined.

3:15 p.m. — Montgomery County confirms 2 more cases, bringing the county’s total to 15

The Montgomery County Public Health announced two new coronavirus cases, bringing the county’s total to 15.

One case is a woman in her 40s, who lives in southwest Montgomery County. She is connected to a case in Smith County, where she recently traveled. She is at home in isolation.

The second case is a man in his 40s, who has been in northeast Montgomery County for work-related purposes. He is at home in isolation. His only recent travel is to Houston.

3:06 p.m. — Houston confirms new coronavirus case, bringing city’s total to 23

Officials with Houston’s Health Department confirmed a new case of coronavirus Sunday afternoon, bringing Houston’s total to 23 cases. The case is a male in the 30 to 40 range who recently traveled to Idaho and is recovering at home, officials said in a tweet.

2:10 p.m. — Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office temporarily suspends sanitizer distribution due to ‘unforeseen demand’

The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office temporarily suspended its sanitizer distribution due to “unforseen demand,” officials said in a Tweet. Officials said they should have sanitizer back in stock tomorrow.

1:20 p.m. — City of Houston provides quarantine accommodations for 4 firefighters

The City of Houston announced it is providing quarantine accommodations for four Houston firefighters who were exposed to COVID-19 and were not able to quarantine at home.

“The safety of our firefighters and their families is my primary concern," Houston Fire Chief Sam Peña said. “I personally secured a location for quarantine on behalf of the City. Health care professionals will actively monitor these four firefighters according to CDC guidelines until they are released back to work.”

The firefighters will be monitored daily for 14 days. If they do not develop symptoms, the firefighters will return to regular duty. At this time, none of the quarantined firefighters have displayed symptoms associated with COVID-19, according to a release from the city.

11:30 a.m. — At least 9 Houston firefighters under quarantine after potential exposure to COVID-19, union says

At least nine Houston firefighters are in quarantine after possible exposure to COVID-19, an official with the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association said.

About 200 firefighters with the Houston Fire Department have reported possible exposure to the new coronavirus, according to union officials. Investigations are underway to determine how and when the firefighters may have been exposed to the virus.

*This post has been updated to reflect that there are at least 9 HFD firefighters in quarantine.

11:10 a.m. — Galveston County confirms 3 more COVID-19 cases, bringing county’s total to 11

Galveston County health officials confirmed Sunday three more cases of COVID-19, bringing the county’s total to 11.

One individual is a man in his 70s who recently traveled domestically. He presented to an area clinic and is currently in self-quarantine.

The second individual is a woman in her 20s who has no history of travel or contact with another infected person. Officials said in a statement they believe this is a case of community spread. The woman is currently in self-quarantine..

The third new case is a woman in her 50s who also had no history of travel or contact with another infected person. Officials said in a statement that they believe this case is also a case of community spread. The woman is currently in self-quarantine.

Saturday, March 21

10 p.m. - Liberty County reports first case of COVID-19

Liberty County confirmed Saturday night its first case of COVID-19.

The case is a woman between 40 and 50 years old experiencing mild symptoms and isolating at home.

8:45 p.m. — Chambers County reports first positive coronavirus case

The Chambers County Public Health confirms its first positive coronavirus case.

The female patient is between 50-60 years old and lives in West Chambers County. She is at home, quarantined and in stable condition. Her case may be travel-related, officials said.

6:30 p.m. — Legacy Community tests nearly 300 people Friday

Legacy Community Health tested 296 people at four satellite clinics Friday, for a total of 610 people since Monday.

At this time, Legacy Community is only testing those experiencing coronavirus-like symptoms and have traveled recently domestically or internationally. They are also testing those who have had contact with anyone diagnosed with or suspected of having coronavirus.

HOUSTON

Legacy Fifth Ward, 3811 Lyons Avenue: 54
Legacy Montrose, 1415 California St.: 148
Legacy Southwest, 6441 High Star Drive: 84

BEAUMONT

Legacy Central Beaumont, 450 North 11th St.: 10

6:10 p.m. — 2 Harris County Sheriff’s Office employees test positive, bringing the agency’s total to 4.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office confirmed two employees tested positive for the coronavirus Saturday, bringing the agency’s total to four.

A male deputy in his early 30s, who last reported for duty Thursday, is quarantined at home.

A male civilian clerk in his late 20s, who last reported for work on March 6, is being treated at a local hospital.

Harris County Sheriff’s Office previously reported two other confirmed cases: one male deputy in his late 60s and a female deputy in her late 20s.

There are still no confirmed cases of COVID-19 among the jail population, officials said.

5:49 p.m. — Houston free testing site expanding to symptomatic people with chronic illnesses

Houston’s first free coronavirus drive-thru testing site will expand services to people of any age with chronic illnesses Sunday. The person must be experiencing common coronavirus symptoms such as cough, difficulty breathing and fever.

People that meet the criteria must call the Houston Health Department’s COVID-19 call center at 832-393-4220 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to get screened. If approved, they will receive a unique identification code and instructions on where to go for testing.

Examples of chronic illnesses include heart disease, asthma, chronic lung disease, cancer, HIV/AIDS. Transplant recipients, people with weakened immune systems and pregnant women are also eligible for COVID-19 testing.

The site will only accept people with a unique identification code obtained through the screening process. People who show up without an identification code will not get tested.

Previously, only healthcare providers, first responders and people 65 and older with symptoms received COVID-19 testing at the site.

5:20 p.m. — Brazoria County confirms 3 new cases of coronavirus, bringing the county’s total to 14.

The Brazoria County Health Department confirmed three new cases of coronavirus. However, they are still investigating whether these cases are travel-related.

Here is the breakdown of those cases:

A man, between the ages of 25-35 that resides in Angleton, is in stable condition and recovering in home isolation.
A man, between the ages of 55-65 that resides in Clute, is in stable condition and recovering in home isolation.
A man, between the ages of 20-30 that resides in Rosharon, is in stable condition and recovering in home isolation.

4:30 p.m. — Fort Bend County confirms 5 new coronavirus cases, bringing the county’s total to 29.

Fort Bend County Health & Human Services confirms five new coronavirus cases.

Here is the breakdown of those cases:

A man in his 70s who was hospitalized, released and now recovering at home.
A woman in her 20s, with moderate symptoms and history of travel to a high incidence area, is recovering in isolation at home.
A man in his 50s with moderate symptoms is recovering at home.
A woman in her 50s with moderate symptoms is recovering at home.
A woman in her 20s with moderate symptoms is recovering at home.

4:24 p.m. — Grimes County confirms 1 new case, bringing the county’s total to 2.

Grimes County Office of Emergency Management confirmed 1 case, exposed through household contact with the first county resident. Officials said the couple made no contact with anyone else in the county. They traveled together in the same car from the same location to their house where they have been self-isolating ever since.

4:13 p.m. — Houston confirms 3 new coronavirus cases, bringing the city’s total to 22.

Houston Health Department confirms three new cases of coronavirus.

Here is the breakdown of those cases:

A 60 to 70-year-old-woman with no known travel has been hospitalized.
A 20 to 30-year-old man, who has traveled in Texas, is at home recovering.
A 40 to 50-year-old man, who traveled to Costa Rica, is at home recovering.

3:50 p.m. — Harris County confirms 10 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total to 46.

Harris County Public Health confirmed 10 new cases of coronavirus.

Here is a breakdown of those cases:

A 30 to 40-year-old man, who lives in the Northwest quadrant of Harris County, exposed through a confirmed case.
A 20 to 30-year-old woman, who lives in the Northwest quadrant of Harris County, exposed through community spread.
A 20 to 30-year-old man, who lives in the Northwest quadrant of Harris County, exposure still pending investigation.
A 30 to 40-year-old woman, who lives in the Northwest quadrant of Harris County, exposed through to a confirmed case.
A 0 to 10-year-old boy, who lives in the Northwest quadrant of Harris County, exposed through a confirmed case.
A 0 to 10-year-old girl, who lives in the Northwest quadrant of Harris County, exposed through a confirmed case.
A 10 to 20-year-old woman, who lives in the Northwest quadrant of Harris County, exposed to a confirmed case.
A 40 to 50-year-old woman, who lives in the Northwest quadrant of Harris County, exposed through travel
A 50 to 60-year-old man, who lives in the Northeast quadrant of Harris County, exposure still pending investigation.
A 50 to 60-year-old man, who lives in the Northwest quadrant of Harris County, exposed through travel

2:56 p.m. — Montgomery County confirms 1 new case of coronavirus, bringing the county’s total to 13.

Montgomery County Public Health District confirmed one new case of coronavirus. The case involves a woman in her 30s, who resides in northwest Montgomery County. She is in isolation at home and has no recent travel history.

2:45 p.m. — Galveston County confirms 2 new cases of coronavirus, bringing to the county’s total to 8.

Galveston County Health District announced two residents tested positive for coronavirus. One case is a woman in her 30s, who recently traveled domestically. She visited a local urgent care facility and is currently self-quarantined. The second case involves a female in her 60s, who recently traveled domestically. She visited a local clinic and is self-quarantined.

1 p.m. — Wharton County confirms first case of coronavirus

Officials with the Wharton County Office of Emergency Management confirmed the county’s first case of coronavirus. The individual had been out of town and tested positive for COVID-19 after he returned to Wharton County.

1 p.m. — Brazoria County confirms 1 additional case of COVID-19, bringing county’s total to 11

Brazoria County announced Saturday afternoon one new case of COVID-19, bringing the county’s total to 11.

The individual is a male, between the ages of 50-60. He resides in Pearland and is at home recovering in isolation. This case is not travel related, according to county officials.

12:40 p.m. — Brazos County confirms 4 more cases of COVID-19, bringing county’s total to 10

Officials with the Brazos County Health Department announced Saturday four additional positive cases of coronavirus, bringing the county’s total to 10 cases.

9 of the 10 cases are travel-related. Officials said the other case is not travel-related and is “believed to be community spread,” department officials stated in a tweet.

All the individuals are self-isolating at their homes.

12 p.m. — Whole Foods boosts employee pay, slashes hours of operation and offers special hours for customers 60 and older

Whole Foods announced a slew of changes as it works to support its employees while keeping its customers supplied with essentials during the COVID-19 pandemic. The supermarket chain will give its hourly employees a $2-an-hour pay bump, slash its operating hours and provide older customers a special shopping hour. Click here for details.

11 a.m. — Matagorda County confirms fourth positive case of coronavirus

Matagorda County Emergency Operations Center confirmed the county’s fourth positive case of coronavirus. The patient is a woman, between 75 and 85 years old, who had no travel outside of the county. She is at Matagorda Regional Medical Center in fair condition.

9 a.m. — Houston begins offering free drive-thru coronavirus testing for adults 65 and older Saturday

Beginning Saturday, a testing site in Houston will offer free coronavirus testing for adults 65 and older with symptoms.

Adults 65 and older with a cough, difficulty breathing, and fever can call the Houston Health Department COVID-19 call center at (832)393-4220 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. for a screening. Those who are screened and meet the testing criteria will receive a unique identification code and instructions on where to go for testing.

The testing site will only accept those with a unique identification code provided through the screening process. Anyone who shows up without an identification code will be turned away and will not be tested, according to a release from the City of Houston. Click here for more information.

Friday, March 20

11 p.m. — Fort Bend County Judge closes gyms, salons

Fort Bend County officials announced that Judge KP George had amended the order to close local businesses, to include gyms, salons and other facilities. The new order will go into effect at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday.

“Gyms, fitness centers and other facilities that are used or intended to be used for any type of training, martial arts or sports shall close,” officials tweeted. “Hair and nail salons, spas, massage and tattoo parlors, movie theaters, game rooms and bingo halls shall close. Access to Fort Bend County facilities shall be limited to the public.”

10:13 p.m. — Free Houston testing site that opened Thursday gets 7 positive results

Officials with United Memorial Medical Center in north Houston where a free coronavirus testing facility opened Thursday, announced Friday night that of the 105 completed test results they’d received back, seven had come back positive.

“We have contacted all of the appropriate officials and we have contacted these patients to inform them of their results and remind them of the importance of self-quarantine, as well as the need to inform their healthcare provider,” officials wrote. “Several hundred tests are currently undergoing microbiological testing.”

9 p.m. — Two Harris County Sheriff’s deputies test positive for coronavirus

The Harris County Sheriff's Office announced that two deputies, who don't work at the same location, tested positive for coronavirus. They are now in isolation in their homes, where their symptoms are being monitored, officials wrote.

"One of the deputies is a male in his late 60s, who recently traveled to New York and has not reported for duty since returning from his trip," officials wrote. "He last reported for duty on Wednesday, March 11. The other is a woman in her late 20s who last reported for duty on Monday, March 16."

Neither deputy works in the Harris County Jail, officials said.

"The Sheriff’s Office is working with Harris County Public Health to identify co-workers and members of the public who may have had contact with the two deputies so they can take necessary precautions, including a 14-day home quarantine," officials wrote. "Testing for the deputies’ co-workers is expected to begin as soon as Saturday."

It is unclear if these two deputies are residents of Harris County or if they are already reported in county totals.

8:55 p.m. — Montgomery County announces 2 new cases

Montgomery County reported two new cases bringing county total at 12. The two new cases are:

A man in his 90s, who lives in southwest Montgomery County. He is currently hospitalized. He has no recent travel history
A man in his 50s, who lives in southwest Montgomery County. His case is still under investigation.

6:45 p.m. Mayor Turner addresses ‘lock down’ rumors

“There is not going to be a lock-down, the city is not shutting down,” Mayor Turner announced during a Friday evening news conference. “There are only three people in the state of Texas who can make that decision, and that is the mayor, county judge, or governor. At this point, neither one has made the call. We are saying people should practice social distancing, wash their hands and use hand sanitizer.”

The mayor addressed false social media reports after a social media video went viral and robocall alarmed residents.

“The information shared in the social media post is false, and the mayor has called for an investigation into social media posts that are intentionally spreading misinformation about the City’s COVID-19 response,” officials wrote in a press release. “The Houston Police Department launched an investigation at Mayor Turner’s request.”

6:35 p.m. — Montgomery County develops online screening tool

Montgomery County health officials announced an online screening tool to help people determine their specific risk of COVID-19.

“It is a simple question-and-answer method of determining whether a person is low-to-no, medium or high risk. There are also considerations for special populations,” officials wrote in a release. “After a few simple questions, the tool will give a person specific step-by-step instructions on how to proceed whether you have symptoms or are asymptomatic.”

The tool also includes resources for the community like a COVID-19 hotline, mental health phone and text line and links to relevant, helpful websites.

You can try out the tool on the county’s website.

6 p.m. — Brazoria County announces five new cases bringing total to 10.

Here is the information provided by Brazoria County health officials about the cases:

A man, between the ages of 45-55 who lives in Pearland. He is isolated at home. Has a history of travel
A man, between the ages of 40-50 who lives in Pearland and is now in self-isolation. Has a history of travel
A man between the ages of 40-50 who lives in Pearland and is at home recovering in isolation. Has a history of travel
A woman, between the ages of 65-75 who lives in Pearland and is at home recovering in isolation. Has a history of travel
A man between the ages of 50-60 who lives in Alvin and is at home recovering in isolation. Has a history of travel

4:38 p.m. — Five new cases announced in Fort Bend County

Fort Bend County Health & Human Services reported five new cases of coronavirus, bringing the county total to 24.

The new cases are:

A woman in her 20s with mild to moderate symptoms. She is recovering in isolation at home.
A man in his 50s with mild to moderate symptoms. He is recovering in isolation at home.
A man in his 60s who was hospitalized and discharged. He is now recovering in isolation at home.
A woman in her 60s who is hospitalized.
A woman in her 50s with mild to moderate symptoms. She is recovering in isolation at home.

4:17 p.m. — Harris County Constables to enforce order prohibiting bars, dining in restaurants

“In a show of collaboration, all eight Harris County Constable’s Offices have agreed to proactively begin responding to reports of unauthorized gatherings at local restaurants, bars and other establishments,” officials announced.

While officials say "the last thing we want to do is enforcement action," they can seek charges against business owners that are caught violating the order.

A charge they might face is “Violation of Emergency Management Plan COVID-19 Order” which is punishable by a fine of upto $1,000 and 180 days of jail time.

4:11 p.m. 8 new cases in Houston, 2 new cases in Brazos County tips Houston area cases over 100

The Houston health department announced eight new cases of coronavirus and Brazos County announced two more.

In Houston, the new cases are:

The cases are:

Female | Age 50-60 | Travel to Kansas |Hospitalized
Male | Age 40-50 | Travel to Georgia |Hospitalized
Female | Age 60-70 | No known travel |Home Recovering
Female | Age 60-70 | Travel to Spain | Home Recovering
Male | Age 50-60 | Travel UK | Home Recovering
Male | Age 40-50 | Travel to NY, NJ, PA | Home Recovering
Male | Age 40-50 | Travel to Colorado | Home Recovering
Male | 40-50 | Travel to Nevada | Home Recovering

In Brazos County, the new cases are:

Man in 30s with no travel history
Man in 20s who traveled to Mexico

3:55 p.m. — Harris County Sheriff restricts public access to substations

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez announced that he was restricting public access to all substations as a way to help contain the spread of coronavirus.

“While you will be unable to obtain offense and accident reports in person, these services are available online,” he wrote.

More deputies were also assigned to take non-emergency crime reports by phone at 713-221-6000.

“We are also implementing safety measures in our jail to protect our staff and those who are entrusted in our care,” Gonzalez wrote. “Cleaning crews have increased the frequency of cleaning operations. All employees and volunteers entering the jail system are being checked for fever each time they enter the building.”

3:45 p.m. — Brazos County warns of coronavirus scammers

Brazos County warned residents that there were reports of people going door-to-door, claiming they were testing for COVID-19.

“Whether or not these reports are true, the Brazos County Health District encourages the public to vigilant about these types of scams,” officials wrote. “The BCHD is NOT offering testing at our main location or out in the public.”

3:20 p.m. — Montgomery County reports tenth case of coronavirus

A woman in her 50s is the tenth case of coronavirus in Montgomery County, officials announced. She is currently in isolation in her home and officials say she attended the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo on March 8.

So far in Montgomery County, 10 people have tested positive, 98 people have tested negative and officials are still waiting on results for 127 tests.

2:11 p.m. – 2 new cases reported in Galveston County

Galveston County health officials reported two more coronavirus cases Friday.

Health officials said one case involved a man in his 40s who has recently traveled internationally. The other was found in a woman in her 50s who had come into contact with someone who had traveled to an area affected by coronavirus.

Both patients have been isolated at home.

This brings the Houston-area total to 91.

You can read more about all of the cases in the Greater Houston area here.

12:28 p.m. -- Houston opens first public coronavirus testing site; 3 more in the works

The first public coronavirus drive-thru testing site in the city of Houston opened Friday, and three more are being planned.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said the first site, which is at Butler Stadium on South Main Street, is only open to health care workers and first responders on Friday. On Saturday, the site will be open to anyone 65 years old and older. On Sunday, the site will be open to anyone.

However, people who want to be tested at the site will have to go through a screening process before they can be tested. That process will take place online or over the phone. People who arrive without going through the screening process will not be tested, Turner said.

Read more about the order here.

12:05 p.m. – Abbott provides update

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is scheduled to provide an update on the state’s efforts to combat coronavirus at noon in Austin.

Click2Houston.com plans to offer a livestream of the news conference in the video player at the top of this story.

9:30 a.m. – Harris County officials confirm 19th case in the county

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo gave an update on efforts to combat the coronavirus during a news conference at 9:30 a.m. Thursday.

During the news conference, Dr. Umair Shah confirmed an additional positive case in Harris County, bringing the total to 19 for the county.

Shah said the man between 40 and 50 years old who lives northwest quadrant of the county and has no history of travel or close contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19, signaling community spread.

According to Shah, it is critical that the community continue to practice social distancing. This will give officials the best chance of getting through a surge of patients that are critical or require hospitalization.

During the conference, Hidalgo announced that Justices of the Peace in Harris County will not conduct eviction hearings until the end of the month. Hidalgo said she does not want people to end up om the street during this time.

She also urged people to continue to stay home unless it is absolutely necessary to leave, and if you do leave to please practice social distancing.

Hidalgo also said the port closure should not cause panic. Delays are built into the supply chain and officials are working to reopen the port as quickly as possible.

The Harris Center for Mental Health has a new hotline people can call if needed. The number is 833-251-7544. People can also find volunteer opportunities, a place to report businesses not complying with orders, FAQ and rumor control at readyharris.org.

Wednesday, March 18

10 p.m. — Bayport, Barbours Cut Terminals closed after confirmed case of coronavirus

The Bayport and Barbours Cut Terminals at the Port of Houston are temporarily closed after a confirmed case of COVID-19.

All vessel, yard and gate operations have been stopped until further notice.

7:30 p.m. — Brazoria County reports fourth coronavirus case

The Brazoria County Health Department said a man between the age of 55 and 65 is the fourth coronavirus patient in their county. The man lives in Manvel and is currently hospitalized and in stable condition.

6 p.m. — City of Rosenberg issues disaster declaration

Mayor of Rosenberg, William Benton, has signed a local disaster declaration for the city in response to the coronavirus outbreak.

“This action follows the lead of Fort Bend County Commissioners Court and Judge KP George, who signed an extension to the Fort Bend County disaster declaration on March 27,” the city announced in a press release.

The declaration will remain in place until March 24, at which time a special City Council meeting will be held to determine if it needs to be extended beyond the initial week.

“As of now, the City will continue to hold public meetings related to City Council functions,” the city wrote. “The City is asking residents who are experiencing symptoms such as fever or cough, or those who have traveled or a member of their household traveled to affected areas or outside of Texas, to refrain from physically attending these meetings and other public places.”

5 p.m. — Harris County Health reports 5 more cases of coronavirus

The Harris County Health Department announced five new cases of coronavirus Wednesday. This brings the county total to 18. Officials said that three of the five new cases appear to be community spread with no travel history. Officials don’t know the source of transmission.

Here’s a breakdown of the new cases:

A 30-40 year-old woman, who lives in the Northeast quadrant of Harris County- (Known contact with a positive COVID-19 individual)
A 30-40 year-old man, who lives in the Northwest quadrant of Harris County- (Still under investigation)
A 80-90 year-old man, who lives in the Northwest quadrant of Harris County- (Community spread)
A 20-30 year-old man, who lives in the Northwest quadrant of Harris County- (Community spread)
A 40-50 year-old woman, who lives in the Southwest quadrant of Harris County- (Community spread)

4:25 p.m. — Five new cases announced in Houston

The Houston Health Department announced five new cases of coronavirus, bringing the city total to 10 and the Houston-area total to 54.

The cases are:

Male | Age 50-60 | No known travel | Hospitalized
Male | Age 70-80 | Travel to New York | Home Recovering
Male | Age 50-60 | Travel to Spain | Home Recovering
Female | Age 20-30 | Travel to Mexico | Hospitalized
Male | Age 60-70 | No known travel | Hospitalized

3:36 p.m. – Brazoria County reports third coronavirus case

A third case of coronavirus was reported Wednesday in Brazoria County.

Brazoria County health officials said this case was found in a 50- to 60-year-old woman who lives in the Pearland area.

Officials said the woman’s illness is related to travel.

This brings the total number of cases in the Houston area to 48.

You can read more about all of the Houston-area cases here.

3:11 p.m. – 2 new coronavirus cases reported in Galveston County

Two more coronavirus cases were reported Wednesday in Galveston County, bringing the total cases in that county to four.

One of the cases is a man in his 50s, according to Galveston County health officials. The other is a woman in her 40s.

Officials said both have recently traveled within the United States, but it’s not yet clear where they contracted the virus.

Both are being self-quarantined at home, officials said.

The total number of cases in the Greater Houston area is now up to 47.

You can read more about all of the Houston-area cases here.

2:40 p.m. – 7th coronavirus case reported in Montgomery County

A seventh coronavirus case was reported in Montgomery County on Wednesday, bringing the total number of Houston-area cases to 45.

Montgomery County health officials said the seventh case is a woman in her 60s who lives in northwest Montgomery County, who has no recent history of travel and no known contact with other COVID-19 patients.

The woman is being kept in isolation at her home.

More details about the cases across the Greater Houston area can be found here.

2:06 p.m. - The Galleria Mall, Katy Mills, Houston Premium Outlets temporarily close due to coronavirus outbreak

The Galleria Mall, Katy Mills and Houston Premium Outlets are temporarily closing its doors to help stop the spread of the coronavirus, according to Simon Property Group.

Simon Property Group announced the closure of all of its retail properties, including malls, premium outlets and mills across the U.S.

The closure will begin at 7 p.m. Wednesday until March 29.

12:50 p.m. - Fort Bend County Health and Human Services reported two positive cases of the coronavirus

The Fort Bend County Health and Human Services reported two more positive cases of the COVID-19, bringing Houston area total to 44.

The first patient is identified as a woman in her 70s, with a history of international travel. Officials said she is experiencing mild symptoms and is in isolation at home.

The second patient is identified as a man in his 60s, the investigation is ongoing. Officials said he is hospitalized and in stable condition.

The Fort Bend County Health and Human Services released the following written statement:

“Fort Bend County Health & Human Services will expand the epidemiological investigation and will continue to lead the effort to quickly identify close contacts with these individuals. Close contacts may include family members, co-workers, emergency responders, and other contacts.”

11:58 a.m. - Two more positive COVID-19 cases reported in Harris County, health officials say; 13 cases in the county

Health officials have reported two new COVID-19 cases in Harris County. Officials said one patient is a 60 to a 70-year-old man who lives in northeast Harris County, and another patient is a 30 to a 40-year-old man who lives in southwest Harris County.

Officials said these two new cases appear to be community spread; there is no travel history and officials said they do not know the source of transmission. Community spread makes it harder to identify and contain the virus since anyone can become infected, officials said.

11:08 a.m. - Gov. Greg Abbott issues proclamation allowing postponement of local elections for May 2

Abbott issued a proclamation to suspended provisions of the Texas Election Code to allow political subdivisions to postpone their 2020 local elections. Local governments will now have the ability to postpone their May 2 elections until Nov.

"I strongly encourage local election officials to take advantage of these waivers and postpone their elections until November," said Governor Abbott. "Right now, the state's focus is responding to COVID-19 — including social distancing and avoiding large gatherings. By delaying this election, our local election officials can assist in that effort."

10:31 a.m. - Gov. Greg Abbott waives expiration dates for driver licenses

Abbott has ordered the Department of Public Safety to temporarily waive expiration dates for driver licenses, commercial driver licenses and other identification forms due to the coronavirus.

“Our top priority remains public health and safety, and we will continue to take action to ensure that Texans can avoid large public gatherings,” Abbott said. “Texas is at a pivotal moment in the response to COVID-19, and by temporarily delaying Driver License renewals we will help limit non-essential trips into public settings and slow the spread of this virus.”

The suspension will be in effect until 60 days after the DPS provides further public notice that normal driver license operations have resumed.

10:25 a.m. - Sixth positive COVID-19 case in Montgomery County, health officials say

Health officials reported Montgomery County’s sixth positive COVID-19 case. Officials said the man, who is in his 40s, is a resident of southwest Montgomery County. At this time, officials said he is in isolation in his home. The man has recently traveled to California, officials said.

6:03 a.m. -- 1 immigration court closed in Houston

The Department of Justice announced Wednesday morning that several immigration courts across the country are being temporarily closed because of the coronavirus pandemic.

In Houston, the court located on South Gessner Road has been closed.

Officials said non-detained hearings nationwide are postponed until April 10. Detained cases will be heard as scheduled.

Officials said people should check the agency’s website for updates about cases that were scheduled to happen at courts that have been closed.

Tuesday, March 17

9:45 p.m. — Matagorda County announces third coronavirus case

A woman between the ages of 50 and 55, who recently traveled to Washington state, has become the third person in Matagorda County to test positive for coronavirus.

“At the onset of symptoms, the patient underwent screening and testing for COVID-19 and stated that she ‘immediately went home to self-quarantine’ and that she has ‘been in self-quarantine since last Friday,’” officials wrote in an announcement of Facebook. “The patient reported that she has been in contact with State health officials who are monitoring her health status, and that she expects to hear from them ‘in the next day or two’ for more information on the expected duration of her self-quarantine.”

9 p.m. — Second death in Texas reported in Arlington

In North Texas, Tarrant County health officials say test results on a 77-year-old man who died Sunday came back positive Tuesday for COVID-19, the illness caused by the new coronavirus, according to a report by the Associated Press. In a statement, county officials say the man was a resident of the Texas Masonic Retirement Center in Arlington. Tarrant County teams are working with retirement center administrators to assess other residents and staff as a search is mounted for the possible source of the infection.

7:30 p.m. — New case of coronavirus announced in Montgomery County

A man in his 50s was announced as the fifth case of coronavirus in Montgomery County, officials announced in a press release on Tuesday, March 17.

The patient is a resident of South Montgomery County and had recently traveled to California. He is currently in isolation in his home.

There are four other cases in the county. Read more here.

6:27 p.m. — Cardinal DiNardo cancels public Mass indefinitely

Cardinal DiNardo and the Archdioceses of Galveston-Houston announced Tuesday evening that all public Masses are canceled indefinitely. Archdiocesan Catholic schools will also remain closed through April 10.

“The public celebration of all weekday and Sunday Masses will be suspended in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston effective Wednesday, March 18, 2020,” the Archdiocese wrote. “Churches are to remain open for individual and private prayer observing their normal hours, as discerned by the Pastors.”

Baptism for babies are to be postponed, “unless there is danger of death."

”Weddings are limited to the celebration of the Marriage Rite outside of Mass itself, with no more than 10 persons in attendance, including ministers," they wrote.

6:13 p.m. — Texas A&M finals go online, school postpones spring graduation

Texas A&M announced Wednesday that students will take finals online and the spring graduation ceremony will be postponed.

"The university is planning mail delivery of diplomas to graduates (with normal shipping costs waived) and is also considering opportunities for in-person ceremony options later this summer for those May graduates wishing to do so," the school wrote. "There is no impact at this time to August in-person graduation ceremonies."

A 101-year-old tradition, Family Weekend, that involved dozens of events in April has also been canceled.

5:40 p.m. — Fort Bend County announces 10th coronavirus case in county

Fort Bend County orders bars and clubs close, restaurants restrict services:

From midnight Wednesday through April 1, Fort Bend County officials ordered bars and clubs be closed. They also ordered that restaurants with or without drive-in or drive-through services and microbreweries, micro-distilleries, or wineries may only provide take out, delivery, or drive-through services.

4:24 p.m. — City of Jersey Village issues disaster declaration

Mayor Andrew Mitcham of Jersey Village signed a disaster declaration Tuesday in response to the public health emergency created by growing coronavirus cases in the Houston area.

3:45 p.m. — Galveston city officials close public entertainment venues, limit restaurants

“Mayor Jim Yarbrough on Tuesday enacted two orders closing public amusement venues, including bars, and limiting restaurants to take-out, delivery and drive-thru services, following federal guidelines regarding Coronavirus and public gatherings,” Galveston city officials wrote in a press release Tuesday afternoon.

The new order will go into effect at 4 p.m. Tuesday.

“The second order limits restaurants to take-out, delivery and drive-thru only, effective 5 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, 2020. Hotel restaurants will still be able to serve guests only. The order also closes bars, effective at 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, 2020,” officials wrote.

1:15 p.m. — Galveston County officials say they aren’t sure they have authority to close bars, restaurants

After reporting a new case of coronavirus, authorities in Galveston County said Tuesday they aren’t sure if they have the authorities to close bars and restaurants to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The statement came the day after a move by authorities in neighboring Harris County ordered all bars to close and restaurants to switch to only takeout or delivery services.

Galveston County Judge Mark Henry said he will issue a disaster declaration later Tuesday to prevent price gouging, but he said he believes the order does not give him the authority to mandate business closures.

Henry was joined by Dr. Philip Keiser, of the Galveston County Health District, for a news conference Tuesday. Both said they have asked the Texas Attorney General to weigh in on Henry’s authority.

When pressed on why they aren’t sure of their authority, Keiser suggested that if the media briefing had been delayed an hour, they might have had a clearer understanding of the law.

Keizer said he expects the county’s coronavirus testing capacity to increase over the next two weeks, and that will give him a better idea of how widespread the illness might be.

So far, there have been 36 cases of coronavirus reported in the Houston area, including one death in Matagorda County.

1 p.m. - Harris County Tax Office, Harris County Clerk’s Office make changes to operations

The Harris County Tax Office announced Tuesday that starting Wednesday, its operations would continue via the use of a dropbox instead of in-person interactions.

"All Harris County Tax Office locations will eliminate direct customer service transactions for the safety of our employees and the community,” Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector & Voter Registrar Ann Harris Bennett said. “The tax office is not closed. Employees will continue to provide services to those who usually visit a tax office location by accepting transactions by dropbox or mail. Customers are also encouraged to use the Tax Office website to conduct all other business.”

However, the Harris County Clerk announced it will close its main office and annexes to the public starting Wednesday, March 18 until further notice.

“We are actively monitoring government guidance and following protocols,” said Harris County Clerk Diane Trautman. “The health and safety of both the public and our employees is our highest priority.”

Employees will continue serving the public by email and phone. People can also access most services, including electronic filing in real property, electronic filing in the courts (county, civil and probate), personal records and electronic filing for campaign and personal finance online.

According to the news release, the clerk’s office is also working on a plan to continue to make voting accessible for the upcoming elections.

“I can assure you our office will do all it can to make sure voters are able to cast a ballot in the elections they qualify to vote in,” added Trautman. “Once the plan is ready it will be shared with the public.”

11:37 a.m. - Harris, Galveston counties report new presumptive positive COVID-19 cases; Houston-area total jumps to 36

Galveston County Health District confirmed its second presumptive positive case of coronavirus in a Galveston County resident.

The person is a man ranging in age 45-50, health officials said. Officials said his symptoms included fever, dry cough, sore throat, headaches, and body aches. Test results from UTMB showed he is positive for COVID-19, officials said. Results are pending confirmation from the Houston Health Department laboratory.

Officials said an initial investigation showed the man has not recently traveled or come into contact with another infected person. This suggests the first signs of community spread in Galveston County.

There are also three new COVID-19 cases in Harris County, officials confirmed. Officials said two people are men from northwest Harris County, and one person is a southwest Harris County woman. All of them are between the ages of 40 and 50, officials said.

10:43 a.m. -- Houston City Council votes to extend emergency health declaration through April

The Houston City Council voted Tuesday to extend the emergency health declaration signed by Mayor Sylvester Turner last week through the end of April.

The order led to the closure of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and the cancellation or postponement of events sponsored by the city or at city venues.

City libraries will remain closed through at least the end of March, officials said.

Leaders said they hope to have at least two drive-thru testing sites up and running by the end of the week.

9:33 a.m. - Brazos County confirms first COVID-19 positive case

Brazos County announced Tuesday that its has confirmed its first positive case of the new coronavirus.

According to officials, the patient is a woman in her 20s who has no association to Texas A&M University or Blinn College. The Brazos County Health Department is working to identify and contact close contacts of the woman.

Health officials said the risk to the general public remains low.

8:42 a.m. – Several movie theaters in Houston area temporarily close

AMC, Regal and Alamo Drafthouse are among several Houston-area movie theaters that will be temporarily closed as concerns over the coronavirus continue.

The theaters join a growing list of gyms, stores and other venues that are closing for now.

Check the entire list here.

6:52 a.m. -- Bath & Body Works closes stores, online shopping still available

Bath & Body Works announced all stores in the United States and Canada are temporarily closing as a response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Customers received emails Monday.

“While our associates are home with their loved ones at this critical time, we’ll support them with pay, as well as look for other ways we might ease their concerns and share our appreciation for all they’ve done,” a statement from the company said.

12:10 a.m. — YMCA of Greater Houston announces temporary closure

The YMCA announced that after Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo asked local businesses and groups to limit gatherings of groups larger than 10, it was decided that the YMCA of Greater Houston will temporarily close its facilities. All programs will be postponed as well.

There are some virtual options for people wanting to keep fit despite the closures including Yoga videos on YouTube, Les Mills virtual classes and more on the YMCA of Greater Houston app.

If you have questions or concerns you can reach out to YMCA officials on social media or email them at covid19@ymcahouston.org.

Monday, March 16

10 p.m. — Matagorda County announces first death related to coronavirus

“Matagorda County Emergency Operation Center was informed that the Matagorda County Hospital District has confirmed that we have a patient, a male in his late nineties, that passed away Sunday evening at Matagorda Regional Medical Center with symptoms consistent with COVID-19. The patient was a resident of Matagorda County,” officials announced.

The Houston Health Department notified Matagorda officials Monday that the man’s test showed he was positive for coronavirus.

Over the weekend, the county announced a separate presumptive positive case.

“Per the State’s protocol, the State has launched an extensive investigation into this second positive case, as they have informed the Matagorda County Hospital District that evidence exists of a possible community link to the earlier positive case in Matagorda County,” officials wrote.

9:30 p.m. — Hobby Center closes through April 12

“In response to the CDC directive limiting group gatherings of 50 or more people and the declaration of a Texas state of emergency, the Hobby Center will close both Sarofim Hall and Zilkha Hall from March 17 through April 2,” officials announced. “We have determined that presenting these events would risk the safety and well-being of our employees and the people we serve. Closing our venue is the right action to protect public health.”

The Hobby Center is currently working to reschedule all performances scheduled there. Ticketed events that are on the list to be rescheduled include BAPS Live, Fiddler on the Roof, Secrets and Illusions, Apollo Chamber Players and Origins Dance Competition.

7:30 p.m. — LA Fitness closes all clubs until at least April 1; Life Time fitness says member has coronavirus

Life Time Fitness

A Houston-area Life Time Fitness member tested positive for COVID-19, the gym said in a message to patrons. The patient last visited the Greenway location on March 7, they said.

“While the Department of Health has not suggested any further action at Life Time Greenway, out of an abundance of caution, we also are conducting additional deep cleaning in the club.”

LA Fitness

Popular gym chain LA Fitness announced it will be closing all clubs until at least April 1.

“All memberships will be extended to cover the time the clubs are closed,” the gym wrote in a message to patrons.

The gym said the health of members and employees was paramount.

7 p.m. — Houston Symphony cancels performances through May

The Houston Symphony announced it will be canceling all performances, concerts and activities through May 10.

The concerts affected by the cancelations are:

Swing to Rock with Dave Bennett, March 20, 21, and 22, 2020
Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 20, March 26, 28, and 29, 2020
Chamber Music Series Concert with Cedric Tiberghien, March 27, 2020
Andrés Conducts Mahler 7, April 3, 4, and 5, 2020
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, April 10 and 11, 2020
Aretha: Queen of Soul, April 17, 18, and 19, 2020
Heroes and Adventures (Family Concert), April 18, 2020
Symphonie fantastique, May 1, 2, and 3, 2020
The Music Critic with John Malkovich, May 7, 2020
The Music of Whitney Houston, May 9 and 10, 2020

5:40 p.m. — Harris County orders all bars and clubs to close, restaurants to suspend dining in

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo ordered all bars and clubs to close for the next 15 days at least, starting at 8 a.m. on Tuesday. She also ordered that all restaurants suspend dine-in and only provide take-out, delivery or drive-thru options for diners.

Houston is the fourth big city to take these steps and Hidalgo, along with Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner agreed that these steps were necessary to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in the area.

“None of these decisions that we are having to make are easy decisions,” Turner said in the Monday press conference. “They’re simply not easy. Especially, we recognize that when you’re making a decision, you’re impacting people’s livelihood and possibly people could be laid off or lose their jobs as a result of the decisions made.”

5:31 p.m. — HISD, Fort Bend ISD extends district-wide closures to April 10

Houston ISD:

HISD announced it will extend district-wide closures to April 10.

“All schools and offices are scheduled to reopen on Monday, April 13,” HISD wrote in a release. “District administration will re-evaluate on Monday, April 6, to determine whether a longer closure beyond April 10 will be necessary.”The district will provide parents with more information about online learning and alternative education options later this week.

Fort Bend ISD:

Fort Bend ISD will extend the suspension of normal district operations through Friday, April 10.

“The District will remain flexible as leaders plan for long-term delivery of instruction and continues to navigate the many details of this unprecedented situation,” the district wrote. “Please continue to monitor your email and visit the District’s website and social media channels for more information on plans to deliver instruction and information on our feeding program.”

Other districts closed through April 10:

Klein ISD
Alief ISD
Needville ISD
Lamar CISD
Katy ISD (through April 13)

5:15 p.m. — Houston Health Department closes birth, death records office

“The Houston Health Department will close its Bureau of Vital Statistics (birth and death records) office to the public until further notice, effective March 17, 2020,” officials announced. “The closure is a measure to help contain and mitigate COVID-19 spread.”

5:02 p.m. — Galveston mayor declares emergency due to coronavirus

Mayor James Yarbrough signed a disaster declaration for the city of Galveston due to the growing concerns over coronavirus.

“This declaration ensures local taxpayers are reimbursed for certain expenses accrued by the City of Galveston as a result of the Coronavirus,” Galveston officials wrote. “The declaration also preserves the City’s right to take future actions deemed necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19. However, no additional actions are being considered at this time.”

The city said it has stopped permitting for special events with more than 50 people through May.

“For the next 15 days, the City of Galveston is strongly discouraging any group gatherings of 10 or more people at any location, per new guidelines The White House on Monday,” the city wrote.

2 p.m. — Food Town announces ‘seniors only’ shopping hours

Food Town announced that while it will maintain its 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. store hours, it will open its doors an hour early for people older than 65.

“Access to the store at this time will require a Government-issued State ID or Texas Drivers License,” the retailer wrote.

1:14 p.m - Houston-area malls adjust operation hours in response to coronavirus outbreak

Effective Monday, some Houston-area malls will adjust their operation hours in response to the global coronavirus outbreak.

All Brookfield Properties’ shopping centers will operate from noon to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

See list here.

Customers at an H-E-B in Sugar Land waited in line to get supplies.

Some customers said they were limited to two gallons of water and were told the wait would be 20 minutes.

On Monday, Mayor Turner said grocery stores are not shutting down and there is no problem with the food supply chain.

11 a.m. — Mayor, H-E-B, other leaders talk about grocery stores in Texas

Mayor Sylvester Turner was joined by Scott McClelland, Joe Kelly, Christy Lara and other leaders to talk about how grocery stores in the area are handling the COVID-19 crisis.

McClelland, Kelly and Lara with H-E-B, Kroger and Randalls respectively said their stores are working diligently to keep shelves stocked and there is no threat to the supply chain.

McClleland said H-E-B is sanitizing stores twice a day and will be installing sneeze guards to help keep shoppers and employees safe. He also said H-E-B had 13,000 trucks out delivering supplies and will continue to ensure shelves stay stocked.

Kelly and Lara said Kroger and Randalls had distribution centers working around the clock to help keep a steady flow of supplies to stores.

Kroger will also be donating $3 million to Feeding America No Kid Hungry to help keep kids fed and work toward the company’s goal of ending hunger in the community by 2025.

Turner said people should not panic because there are plentiful supplies and to be mindful of the needs of others. Click here to read more about how grocery stores are handling the crisis.

9:09 a.m. - Governor Abbott waives STAAR testing requirements for 2019-2020 school year

Governor Greg Abbott announced that he has waived the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) testing requirements for the 2019-2020 school year.

Additionally, Abbott is requesting that the Department of Education waive federal testing requirements for the 2019-2020 school year.

Abbott said he is working closely with the Texas Education Agency to ensure that schools continue to deliver instruction to students while students are absent or while schools are closed due to COVID-19. This includes tailoring instruction for students with special needs so that they have access to the same education as other students in the district.

Read more here.

8:53 a.m. - Two news conferences today

We’re planning to stream two news conferences about the coronavirus today.

The first is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. That is when Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner is expected to speak at a grocery store about people who are stockpiling supplies and the modified hours of some stores.

The second is an update from the federal government’s coronavirus taskforce. It was originally scheduled to being at 9:30 a.m., but was rescheduled to 2:30 p.m.

We’re planning to stream both of those events live at the top of this story when they happen.

Chilly again to kick off Sunday in Houston.

Donald Trump picks Houston billionaire Tilman Fertitta as ambassador to Italy

Grinch arrested after causing disturbance at HEB in Cypress

Montgomery County AutoZone shooting leaves employee dead; 19-year-old suspect arrested

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Features

Houston-area coronavirus coverage from March 16 to March 31

Tuesday, March 31

Monday, March 30

Sunday, March 29

Saturday, March 28

Friday, March 27

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