CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — On Monday, Gov. Greg Abbott ordered that all Texas residents who live in nursing homes get tested for COVID-19. Now, leaders in Nueces County are coming up with a plan on how that testing will be performed.
During a news conference on Wednesday afternoon, city and county leaders gave an update on that effort. Nueces County Judge Barbara Canales said crews will test more than 1,000 residents and employees at more than 40 facilities, including 16 local nursing homes, 12 assisted living facilities and 15 long-term living facilities. Everyone will be tested within 14 days.
Annette Rodriguez, the director of public health, said the health district is working closely with the facilities, as well as CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital and the fire department to ensure everyone gets tested. Health officials and local firefighters will perform the testing.
Meanwhile, Governor Greg Abbott also announced Wednesday afternoon that the Texas National Guard formed six teams that are trained to help disinfect nursing homes across the state. At this time, it’s still unclear if one of those teams will come to the Coastal Bend.