DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) – Amid a rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in North Texas local leaders are asking residents to avoid group gatherings over the New Year’s holiday.
“As we approach the New Year’s holiday, I ask all Dallas County residents to please reconsider their plans if they involve spending time with individuals outside their household,” said Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins. While this is traditionally a joyous time when we gather with our friends and families to celebrate and usher in the New Year, we are in a very dangerous situation with COVID-19 in our county and region.”
The past week has brought record high hospitalizations across Dallas County and the region.
“We have limited ICU bed availability for a county of 2.7 million residents, and these beds are not solely for COVID patients, but other acute illness, traumas, and acute surgery recovery,” Jenkins said.
UT Southwestern projects a 20% increase in hospitalizations by January 5 and local hospital and public health officials are concerned about additional increases following the holidays.
Health officials ask that North Texans follow public health guidance and avoid indoor New Year’s Eve celebrations at bars, clubs or restaurants.
“The safest way to celebrate is at home with your household,” insisted Jenkins.
Group gatherings over previous holiday weeks have been linked to a spike in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations.
Listen to Clayton Neville’s story below:
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