AUSTIN, Texas — Gov. Greg Abbott issued a proclamation today suspending elective surgeries in four more Texas counties including Nueces.
Other counties announced included Cameron, Hidalgo and Webb counties.
The proclamation amends Abbott's previous executive order that included Bexar, Dallas, Harris and Travis counties.
"As these counties experience a surge in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, we are committed to working alongside hospitals to help ensure that every COVID-19 patient who needs a bed will have access to one," Abbott said. "We are constantly monitoring the data at the local level and will continue to take precautionary action where it is necessary.
"I want to remind all Texans that each of us have a responsibility to help slow the spread of this virus, and I urge everyone to wear a mask, wash their hands regularly, practice social distancing, and stay home if possible."
Under the Executive Order, the Governor directs all hospitals in these counties to postpone surgeries and procedures that are not immediately, medically necessary to correct a serious medical condition or to preserve the life of a patient who without immediate performance of the surgery or procedure would be at risk for serious adverse medical consequences or death, as determined by the patient’s physician.
Through proclamation, the Governor can add or subtract from the list of counties included in the Executive Order to address surges in hospitalizations that may arise in other parts of the state.