Texas has reached an all-time high in the number of reported cases of COVID-19 and hospitalizations.

On Tuesday, June 23, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reported 5,489 new cases, with 4,092 Texans being hospitalized because of the virus.  

It was the 12th consecutive day the number of Texans hospitalized with COVID-19 has peaked. Since Memorial Day, the number of Texans being hospitalized each day has more than doubled.

The grim statewide trend is being mirrored locally. On March 23, Tarrant County Public Health reported a total of just 75 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Three months later, on June 23, the department reported 9,386 confirmed cases, including 88 in Benbrook.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said that COVID-19 is spreading “at an unacceptable rate.” To help slow the spread of the virus, he urged Texans to follow the Minimum Standard Health Protocols he published earlier this month. “The safest place for you,” the Governor added, “is at your home.”

Benbrook Mayor Jerry Dittrich also expressed his concern. “The pandemic is not over,” the Mayor said. “The threat to public health, and to our economic well-being, remains very real. We must work together to help slow the transmission of the virus.”

The Mayor also urged residents to follow the DSHS COVID-19 safety precautions. These include:

- Practice “social distancing,” staying at least six feet away from others.

- Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds.

- When soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.

- Wear a face covering when around other people.

- Clean frequently touched surfaces daily.

The City of Benbrook has posted a variety of resources related to COVID-19, including information on the Benbrook Economic Development Corporation Disaster Relief Grant Program, the Tarrant County Small Business Grant Assistance Program, and resources related to housing, food, and unemployment. In addition, the Texas Department of State Health Services has created an interactive graphic illustrating the spread of the virus by county, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has posted information on how to reduce your risk of becoming infected, symptoms, and what to do if you are infected.