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More information on COVID-19

COVID-19 Hotline Information

A DSHS COVID-19 Call Center was established and an email box created to receive incoming questions from the general public.

Email: coronavirus@dshs.texas.gov

DSHS COVID-19 Call Center: 1-877-570-9779

Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Monday – Friday

Two Cases of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Ellis County

The Local Health Authority has confirmed two cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19)
within Ellis County. The updated number includes the original case of a Maypearl
resident reported on Tuesday, and a Palmer resident.

Medical personnel and Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) are closely
monitoring the cases, working to identify additional individuals who may have come in
contact with the cases while the individuals were symptomatic. Those identified as
having close contact with the cases will be contacted by health officials.

COVID-19 has recently been confirmed to be community spread. According to The
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reported illnesses have ranged from
mild symptoms to severe illness for COVID-19 cases. These include symptoms of
fever, cough and/or shortness of breath, viral pneumonia, and acute respiratory
distress syndrome (ARDS) which can lead to permanent damage and or death . These
symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure.

Jurisdictions across the state shall follow Governor Abbott’s Executive Order effective
11:59 p.m. on March 20, 2020, through 11:59 p.m. on April 3, 2020. This order is
subject to an extension thereafter based on the status of COVID-19 in Texas and the
recommendations by the CDC.

Every Texan shall avoid all gatherings in groups of more than 10 people . All critical
infrastructure shall remain open and continue providing essential services. Businesses
are to implement policies allowing employees to work from home to eliminate the
spread of COVID-19.

Inside dining at bars, restaurants, and food courts, or visiting gyms or massage parlors
is prohibited. Restaurants and other establishments are allowed to utilize
drive-through, delivery, and pick-up options. People shall not visit nursing homes,
retirement, or long-term care facilities unless to provide critical assistance. Schools
throughout the state shall temporarily close through April 3, 2020.

For Governor Abbott’s full order please visit:
https://co.ellis.tx.us/DocumentCenter/View/10959/COVID-19-JOINT-PDF-31920

Todd Little,
Ellis County Judge & Emergency Management Director