New coronavirus cases are above 200 for the second day in a row, with 208 cases reported Saturday. The seven-day average is trending upward, to 162 cases from 152 on Friday. The case total for Bexar County is now 46,291.
Deaths from COVID-19 initially reported to the Texas Department of State Health Services continue to be reviewed and verified by the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, resulting in seven deaths that occurred between July 11 and Aug. 28 reported Saturday for a total of 13 deaths among people age 40 to 89.
Ages and ethnicities of deceased
1 Black male in his 60s
1 Hispanic female in her 50s
2 Hispanic males between ages 60 and 89
2 white females between ages 50 and 79
1 white male in his 70s
2 females of unknown ethnicity in their 70s
4 males of unknown ethnicity between ages 40 and 89
The number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients continues to decline, to 366 from 383 on Friday, a number which officials watch closely in making determinations on the necessity for ongoing closures and safety protocols.
Patients in intensive care continued to decrease, to 177 from 196 the previous day, with a decrease in patients requiring ventilators, to 111 from 125.
Despite the two-day rise in cases, Mayor Ron Nirenberg said, “Cases and hospitalizations are trending in the right direction. We can’t let up now.”
He repeated his recent advice for San Antonio residents: “Avoid large crowds. Wear a mask. Wash your hands. We have to take care of ourselves, our loved ones, and our neighbors.”
Officials are also urging residents to get a flu shot ahead of the coming flu season. Those at a higher risk of complications from both flu and coronavirus, including adults over 65 years old, those with underlying conditions, pregnant women, caretakers who are exposed to vulnerable groups, and essential workers are encouraged to get the vaccine as soon as possible.
There are 156 providers that work with Metro Health to provide vaccines for children going back to school, “and we really want to promote that it’s safe and important to access preventative care” at this time, Williams said Friday at a City Council Health and Equity Committee meeting. “Everyone above the age of 6 months should be getting a flu vaccine.”
