Houston-area coronavirus count: Rate of new infections stays flat for another week

The total number of new cases reported in the nine-county area came in at at 1,532 between April 26-May 2. The weekly total was similar to the week of April 19-25, when 1,517 cases were reported. During the week of April 12-18, a total of 1,658 new cases were confirmed.

New cases May 3 and May 4 were also consistent with totals from the previous week. A total of 147 new cases were confirmed on May 3, and 167 cases were confirmed May 4, compared to 127 new cases April 26 and 155 new cases April 27.

Although the rate of new cases has been flat, public health officials in Harris County have warned the fight is not over. Following the May 1 reopening of certain businesses under new state guidelines, health officials warned any related increase in cases could take weeks to materialize.

"As we take a moment to appreciate our collective success in flattening the curve, I want us to be mindful of the danger that remains and ask everyone to join me to double down and do absolutely everything we can as we take steps to reclaim our lives," Harris Health System President Dr. Esmaeil Porsa said May 1.

Active cases in the Houston area's five most populous counties increased by 70 on May 4. Recoveries increased by 87, and nine new deaths were confirmed.