The number of Brazos County COVID-19 cases jumped from 53 to 63 overnight. Officials say sheltering in place and social distancing are now more important than ever.
At least 63 COVID 19 cases, only two recoveries, and a total of three deaths, all in Brazos County was news one family never thought they would hear as they mourn the loss of their loved one.
"It came home to College Station. It got more serious and then ultimately taking my mom's life. It got extremely personal," said David Aguirre.
With ten positive cases reported within the last 24 hours, people can not help but ask: What are officials doing about the uptick?
"We have to keep doing it," said College Station Mayor Karl Mooney. "And we have to get more people who wholly buy into that stay at home, stay in place."
As for how surrounding counties are reacting, 25 News received this statement from Bell County Judge David Blackburn:
“We are at Stage 3 in our COVID-19 Plan, which is the highest stage we can be in. We will continue to urge people to stay home to the extent they can, actively practice social distancing and personal hygiene care. We can slow the spread, and minimize the spread, if people continue to do these things," said Blackburn.
Kelly Craine with the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District said they continue to closely monitor COVID-19 cases.
"In all counties. We're seeing the case rise in Texas and of course across the nation. So it's just, we're generally concerned. We don't want to see that happen to any county but we know that this is the reality of the life we're living now," said Craine.
As for how they are responding to the increase?
"We're just really pushing that information about those measures we took three weeks ago still apply," said Craine. "When you shelter in place, you are making a difference. You're keeping the numbers low in your county. You're protecting yourself. You're protecting your family."
Officials urged everyone to continue following basic preventative measures: wash your hands often, avoid touching your face and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Brazos County Health District officials will host a press conference tomorrow at 4:30 p.m.
