Coronavirus: 2 More Die Of Respiratory Illness In WilCo

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TX — Two more people have died of the coronavirus in Williamson County, health officials said Wednesday. The latest victims bring the total fatality count in the region to 32.

The latest to succumb to the contagious respiratory illness were two men, one in his 60s and another in his 70s, Williamson County and Cities Health District officials said. Patient privacy rules prevent health officials from releasing further details.

“Another two lives have left us too soon due to COVID-19," Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell said in a prepared statement. "As your County Judge, I mourn when there is a loss in our community. It is our duty as a Williamson County family to protect our most vulnerable and those with underlying health conditions."

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Gravell urged residents to practice safeguards to help blunt the spread of illness: "If you are going to be out in the public, please consider wearing a face covering and remain six feet apart from others," he said. "We continue to emphasize these guidelines because they are our strongest tool to fighting back against this deadly virus.”

To date, some 1,068 positive cases of coronavirus have emerged in Williamson County, according to health officials. That's up 47 from the previous day, according to data on a health department statistical dashboard. Health officials estimate some 621 patients have recovered from the respiratory illness after contracting the virus.

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For more information on the latest COVID-19 cases count in Williamson County, visit the Williamson County and Cities Health District (WCCHD) dashboard at www.wcchd.org/COVID-19/dashboard.php.

Those experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness such as cough, fever and shortness of breath are urged to contact their health care providers. However, health officials stress the importance of calling ahead before arriving at a clinic, urgent care or emergency department to avoid potential spread.

For information on the county response to COVID-19, go to www.wilco.org/COVID-19.