Williamson County has issued a state of disaster declaration in response to the global coronavirus pandemic.
The declaration activates the county’s emergency plan, which “will allow the County to allocate resources, utilize personnel and enact procedures to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” the illness caused by the new coronavirus, officials said in a statement Saturday. It will also allow the county to request state assistance if needed.
“We are prepared to protect our residents, and ask that you remain calm and continue to practice the preventative measures outlined by the CDC,” said Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell.
No cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Williamson County, officials said. Austin reported Friday that three people have tested positive for the disease, presumably the first cases in the area.
Following the county’s declaration, the City of Georgetown also declared a local state of disaster on Saturday afternoon. Georgetown Mayor Dale Ross said the declaration allows the city to request state assistance if needed and to allocate resources, reorganize personnel, and enact procedures to prevent the spread of the disease in the city.
“Like our partners at the county, state, and federal levels, we are working to ensure the safety of our community,” Ross said. “Right now, that means trying to limit larger gatherings and making sure we have the resources we need to prepare and respond here in Georgetown. The best things you can do are wash your hands and stay home if you are sick. If you do feel ill, please contact your healthcare provider before coming to a facility.”
The declarations come a day after Gov. Greg Abbott declared a state of disaster in Texas and President Donald Trump declared the pandemic a national emergency.
Travis County and the city of Austin issued a local disaster declaration on March 6.
CORONAVIRUS IN TEXAS: What we know, latest updates
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