I hope you’re staying well and healthy. With over 18,000 active COVID-19 cases reported today, 978 hospitalized, 273 in the ICU, 234 on ventilators, and 605 El Pasoans taken from us, it’s clear this public health crisis is far from over.
El Paso, we are in a state of emergency. I’ve heard from countless constituents about long lines at testing sites, outbreaks at schools and with sports teams, and ongoing mask-less gatherings occurring around the community. I’ve heard from overworked frontline health care workers, overwhelmed teachers, and worried small business owners.
There is no doubt that a two-week shutdown has significant negative impacts, especially on a community that has already suffered immensely. Had there been aggressive contact tracing, enforcement, and full public disclosure, and a rejection of all waiver requests by the City, we wouldn’t be here. But we are, and the status quo is not a responsible option.
I’m working with local, state, and national health care experts and agencies to ensure El Paso has all of the resources we need to combat the crisis. You may be glad to know that with the help of the Houston United Medical Memorial Center, the County of El Paso and I were able to open a seventh COVID-19 testing site. The site, located in the County SportsPark, will allow for more than 1,000 free tests per day to any person that needs to get tested.
El Pasoans, please stay safe. We each have a personal obligation to slow the spread or we will not see the end of this crisis anytime soon. Wear your mask, wash your hands, and stay home. We must protect the people around us and make the sacrifices our community needs.
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