New details released in Freestone COVID-19 case

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More details have been released related to the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Freestone County.

In an update by City of Teague officials, the individual with the case is a male in his 40’s, who resides in Teague. The individual is currently under quarantine.

“Everyone needs to be in compliance with the guidelines that have been issued by federal, state, and local authorities to help prevent the virus from spreading,” City of Teague officials wrote on Facebook. “Please be safe!”

Freestone County Judge Linda Grant released a county directive Wednesday afternoon, stating that “the next two weeks are important” and that “Freestone County is doing a good job following the orders and recommendations to help stop the spread and to protect themselves and the other citizens in our county.”

“Stay at home except for essential services or engaging in essential daily activities while continuing to practice social distancing and continuing to follow personal health hygiene practices, such as washing your hands,” the directive states. “These measures are helping slow the spread of the COVID-19.”

The directive also asks citizens follow recommendations made by national officials, such as wearing a cloth face mask whenever someone is out in public and cannot maintain six feet of social distancing, and encouraging only one person per household handle essential functions.

“Now is the time for our County to come together even stronger than before to help stop the spread,” the directive states.

For anyone with questions, please contact the County Judge’s office at 903-389-3335.

Texas Department of State Health Services data released at 12 p.m. Wednesday confirms the Freestone case of COVID-19, with 15,492 cases reported statewide. Limestone County currently has 11 confirmed cases, with one confirmed fatality.

Governor Greg Abbott announced Wednesday that his Public Safety Office (PSO) will provide $38 million in federal funds to local units of government in Texas. Funds will come from the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Program authorized by federal Emergency Appropriations for the Coronavirus Health Response and Agency Operations Act.

Jurisdictions may use this funding to “prevent, prepare for, and respond to the coronavirus,” and includes the following examples of allowable costs:

-Personnel Overtime for Peace Officers, Jailers, Correctional Officers, Medical and other Essential Staff)

-Personal Protective Equipment

-Supplies such as gloves, masks, sanitizer and disinfectant

-Temporary Staff

-Medical care for inmates that have tested positive for COVID-19

“These funds will help our local governments respond to COVID-19 and provide the resources that our communities need,” said Abbott. “I am grateful to our federal partners for making this crucial financial support available to the state of Texas."