COVID-19 advice for Donley County

As I write this on March 27 many are wondering “what is next for us?”

I can tell you that cases are rising dramatically in the metropolitan areas of Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin. You may be inclined to think that they are far removed from us in West Texas. I would remind you how rapidly the disease has spread from China around the world. We are seeing more state confirmed cases, 23, in Lubbock. The number was 12 only two days ago. There was one death confirmed in Oldham County.

Statewide there are 1,731 cases with 23 deaths and confirmed cases in 105 of 254 counties as of today and the numbers are all rising.

Tests have been submitted from patients in Donley County, and to date have been negative, but several tests are still pending. The wait time for results has been extended to ten days, so we have found another resource to get results in two days. With positive cases in the panhandle it may only be a matter of time until it arrives here. By the time we get a confirmed case in Donley County it will undoubtedly have been passed to others here. I can think of dozens who would not do well if they contracted this disease. Some could die.

I am writing to say that now is our window of opportunity. The measures we take now can keep the disease from spreading. Most people will have a bad cold, but they could pass it to one who could die. Or they could pass it to those who fill critical functions in law enforcement, fire protection, and emergency medical providers. If they contract the disease, our ability to provide the necessary services to our community will be compromised. Our bench is not that deep. We need all hands to respond during this pandemic. We are all working to preserve our health and we need all of you to help us as you help yourselves and protect the most vulnerable among us.

I am so gratified that when I asked our restaurants to cease in house dining and move to takeout, they all voluntarily complied. (Later that day the Governor made it mandatory – but our local businesses decided to do their part first.) I encourage everyone to continue to support our local businesses.

All the guidance you have undoubtedly heard should be rigorously followed and I will remind you here. Let us remind each other and support each other. Together we can prevail, but it takes everyone to do their part.

If you are sick, stay home, keep away from others, and wear a facemask. If your condition worsens, contact your doctor.

Practice social distancing – six feet from others – and do not gather in groups larger than 10 people.

Cover your cough or sneeze.

Wash your hands frequently, 20 seconds, soap and water especially after blowing your nose or sneezing.

Use hand sanitizer, at least 70 percent alcohol.

Use a disinfectant to clean surfaces that are touched.

Editor’s Note: Judge Howard’s comments were written March 27 before the first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Donley County on March 30.