COVID-19 fatalities in Hidalgo County surpass 1,200; 239 new cases reported

As the Labor Day holiday approaches, Hidalgo County officials continue to urge the public to keep avoiding large crowds to prevent a rise in cases.

23 residents died Wednesday due to complications related to COVID-19, the same day 239 people tested positive for the virus. The county said in a news release that the total number of positive cases is now 27,908 with 1,208 deaths.

“I send my sincere condolences to the 23 families for the loss of their loved one,” Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez said in the news release. “As you consider gathering with family and friends this weekend, please remember that COVID-19 still represents a significant risk to the lives and livelihoods of the citizens of Hidalgo County. Avoiding any family or social gatherings outside the people in your household over Labor Day is the best course of action.”

There are currently 289 people hospitalized with complications from the virus with 112 of those cases are being treated in intensive care units.

There are currently 2,605 net active cases of the virus and 131 people were released from isolation Wednesday, meaning a total of 24,095 COVID-19 patients have been symptom-free for 10 days, including three without a fever.