Houston reported 141 new coronavirus cases Nov. 16, and the total death count in the city rose by two, up to 1,398.
Positivity rate trending up
Houston’s positivity rate was falling consistently after the city’s mid-summer peak but has begun to rise again in recent weeks. As of Nov. 16, the city’s positivity rate was 7.9%, up from a reported 5% in mid-October.
While Houston is faring better than other cities in the state, such as El Paso, Turner said that the current trends merit a warning.
“[The coronavirus] is just not going to go away on its own. ... As we look at these positivity rates, we are ringing the alarm bells,” he said.
Holiday plans
Ahead of Thanksgiving, Turner and Persse advised residents to get tested for the coronavirus before gathering with others and limiting groups to 10 or fewer. They also recommended limiting or avoiding travel and gatherings before and after the holiday.
“Use caution when it comes to holiday travel,” Turner said. “I want to encourage you to avoid going to areas of large community spread.”
Small outdoor gatherings with masks and social distancing are “moderate-risk,” according to Houston Health Department Guidance. Dining with household members is “low-risk,” and large, indoor gatherings are “high-risk,” according to the same guidance.
Annual parade replaced with food distribution event
Turner announced the city’s annual Thanksgiving Day Parade will be replaced with a food distribution event for families in need at NRG Stadium from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 21.
