Hospitalization rate rises above 15% in East Texas

TYLER — The hospitalization rates for many East Texas counties continue to rise. According to our news partner KETK, numbers have climbed above the threshold that threatens the operating capacity for businesses. NET Health CEO George Roberts said that a group of East Texas counties, known as RAC-G, have had their hospitalization rates rise about 15% for coronavirus cases. Under Gov. Abbott’s order, if this continues for seven consecutive days, businesses that are operating at 75% would have to drop to only 50% capacity.

Smith County Judge Nathaniel Moran said during the briefing that it is still up to the public to make good choices to avoid businesses losing customers. There are currently more than 9,500 active cases of COVID-19 in East Texas. Roberts also cautioned during his briefing that despite a slight drop in cases over the past several days, he believes that it is misleading due to the holidays. He expects another spike to come due to increases in travel and gatherings. Roberts encouraged the public to keep wearing masks and staying home if you are sick.

These are the East Texas counties which would be affected by the recent rise in hospitalization rate:

Anderson
Camp
Cherokee
Franklin
Gregg
Harrison
Henderson
Houston
Marion
Panola
Rains
Rusk
Shelby
Smith
Trinity
Upshur
Van Zandt
Wood