Hidalgo County reports 175 new COVID-19 cases, 11 more deaths

11 Hidalgo County residents died Friday due to complications related to COVID-19 on the same day 175 people tested positive for the virus.

According to a Hidalgo County news release, the total number of positive cases now stands at 27,252 with 2,587 of those cases still active. A total of 1,156 souls have lost their lives from the virus.

“I extend my sympathies and condolences to the family and friends of the 11 latest victims to pass from COVID-19,” Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez said in the news release. “It is especially important for people at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, and those who live with them, to protect themselves from getting COVID-19. The best way to protect yourself and to help reduce the spread of the virus is to: limit your interactions with other people as much as possible and take the necessary precautions to prevent getting COVID-19 when you do interact with others.”

Judge Cortez acknowledged that the number of positive cases has risen, but noted that much of this rise in numbers can be attributed to the Department of Health and Human Services clearing up a backlog in testing results that has arisen both locally and statewide.

150 people were released from isolation on Friday, meaning a total of 23,509 people who tested positive for COVID-19 have been symptom-free for 10 days, including three days without a fever. 350 people remain in area hospitals with COVID-19 complications with 134 of them being treated in intensive care units.