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PRESS RELEASE — BEAUMONT, Texas – The following information from the Southeast Texas Regional Emergency Operations Center summarizes activities and developments related to COVID-19 in Hardin, Jasper, Jefferson, Newton, Orange, and Tyler counties:

Positive for COVID-19 – 10 total

• Beaumont – 7
• Lumberton – 1
• Silsbee – 1
• Orange – 1

Total calls received by Call Center – 832

• 187 have been referred for testing (since call center opened on 3/20)
• 32 scheduled for testing at drive-through site today
• Tests are averaging about 5 minutes per patient

The implementation of a Stay at Home, Work Safe Initiative has been instituted by County Judges in Hardin, Jasper, Jefferson, Newton, Orange, and Tyler counties.

The Initiative was developed by the County Judges as a less-restrictive Addendum to proposed, more-restrictive Orders.  This Initiative provides guidance to the public and retail service industry in areas such as what is, and is not, allowed during the COVID-19 crisis.  The Initiative will allow individuals an opportunity to be responsible and limit social interaction.  The Initiative also includes guidance for retailers on the appropriate management of food and household supplies to ensure the entire public has access to resources.

Financial institutions will continue to be able to operate with drive-through teller lanes and restaurants may continue to operate with pick-up and delivery services.  We want businesses to continue to serve our citizens and to continue to keep their employees working and receiving paychecks.  We are asking all businesses to direct their management to enforce these Orders as well as the appropriate social distancing requirements.

This Initiative will be observed until such time as the current crisis has been averted or until more stringent restrictions are needed.  We are hopeful that adherence to the Initiative will alleviate the need for a more comprehensive Order that would include more stringent sanctions and penalties for violations.

The Call Center will continue to be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.  If you are experiencing symptoms (fever, dry cough, shortness of breath) or you believe you have been exposed to an infected individual, you can call 409-550-2536 to be evaluated for testing.

If you are looking for information about COVID-19, please do not call the Call Center.  You can call 211 option 6 or visit SETINFO.ORG.