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Hidalgo County Health and Human Services remains vigilant regarding developments with Coronavirus. This page is intended to disseminate as much information as possible related to the virus and any threat it may pose to Hidalgo County residents.

During this period when Hidalgo County is in a state of disaster, these updates are provided to give a quick overview of developments that may help with the continuation of Hidalgo County operations. For additional questions or concerns call the Hidalgo County Hot-Line. Please note that the numbers provided on this page reflect end of previous business day.

UPDATED County Alert Level

TESTING SITES

PUBLIC ADVISORY: The COVID-19 testing entities are not affiliated with Hidalgo County and are subject to change. This information is provided to the public as a courtesy and offered by the entity conducting the free or private COVID-19 testing service within Hidalgo County. Locations and times are subject to change based on testing limitations and resource availability.

AVAILABLE TESTING SITES "WITH COST" OR HEALTH INSURANCE

UTRGV COVID-19 IMPORTANT MESSAGE

IMPORTANT PUBLIC NOTICE: Any and all information shared here on is referenced from the UTRGV COVID-19 (coronavirus) Resource Center. UTRGV has opened multiple COVID-19 testing centers across the RGV to provide patients with advanced medical care and testing to help and treat patients with COVID-19 (coronavirus). For more information about Phone Screening and On-Site Testing, please view the frequently asked questions and answers below. For additional questions, please email coronavirus@utrgv.edu.

Due to the high number of COVID-19 form submissions, it may take up to 3-4 business days (depending on current testing volume requests/demand, etc.) for a scheduling representative to contact you for a phone screening.
Patients who get tested for COVID-19 at one of the UTRGV testing sites will have results sent to their patient portal account between 1-2 days. It is imperative to sign up through the patient portal with a personal email account in order to receive results. UTRGV will only call patients who test positive for COVID-19 (coronavirus).
UTRGV’s Patient Communication Center hours of operation are Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and closed on Saturday and Sunday.
Individuals must be 18 years or older to be tested at the COVID-19 testing sites.

UTRGV COVID-19 PHONE SCREENING FAQS

Is the initial COVID-19 “Phone-Screening” Free to all who call 1-833-UTRGVMD?

Phone screening is free and a means to provide the best type of appointment with a UTRGV testing site. According to UTRGV’s shared information, there is no cost for the initial appointment screen with the patient communication center. The patient communication center will offer options for the best type of appointment.

As with any appointment with a UTRGV testing site, the appointments, including drive-thru or telemedicine, will be billed to your insurance provider. Please check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage.

If someone calls 1-833-UTRGVMD, goes through the initial phone-screening, and qualifies for an appointment, will they only be referred to a UTRGV testing or clinical site?

Yes, the call center can only make appointments for UTRGV testing sites and/or clinical sites.

After filling out the online form for the initial phone screening, how long does it take to get call back to make an initial appointment with a UTRGV testing site?

Within 3-4 business days (Monday-Friday).

UTRGV COVID-19 ON-SITE TESTING FAQS

How much does a COVID-19 test cost?

According to shared UTRGV information, there is a $0 out-of-pocket cost to patients in the RGV with qualifying medical insurance.

Notice to Insured Patients - There is a $0 copay for insured patients. As with any appointment and diagnostic test, the appointments and diagnostic tests, including drive-thru or telemedicine, will be billed to the patient’s insurance provider. Billing per patient may vary depending on insurance provider. Please contact your insurance provider to verify your plan coverage and costs.

Notice to Uninsured Patients - As directed by the federal government, there is a $0 cost for uninsured patients being tested for COVID-19.

What if I don’t have health insurance?

Please continue to Request Your Phone Screening. As directed by the federal government, there is a $0 cost for uninsured patients being tested for COVID-19.

Once referred to a UTRGV testing or clinical site for an appointment, will patients go through any additional screening before being tested for COVID-19?

Yes. During the appointment, a UT Health RGV provider will make the final decision to perform the test for COVID-19.

Notice to Insured Patients - As with any appointment and diagnostic test, the appointments and diagnostic tests, including drive-thru or telemedicine, will be billed to your insurance provider.

Notice Uninsured Patients - As directed by the federal government, there is no cost for uninsured patients being tested for COVID-19.

How many UTRGV COVID-19 testing sites are there?

UTRGV has a total of 4 COVID-19 testing sites. (Edinburg, Brownsville, Mercedes, Harlingen)

To request a COVID-19 Phone Screening, complete the Online Request Form.

After going through any additional screening at a UTRGV testing or clinical site, can patients still be denied a COVID-19 test?

While it is likely a COVID-19 test will be done after a patient meets the phone screening criteria, if the UT Health RGV provider believes the symptoms are related to something else, the provider will treat accordingly.

Are patients who did not qualify for a test, after an appointment at a UTRGV testing or clinical site, still liable to pay for the appointment?

Insured Patients: As with any appointment and diagnostic test, the appointments and diagnostic tests, including drive-thru or telemedicine, will be billed to your insurance provider.

Uninsured Patients: As directed by the federal government, there is no cost for uninsured patients being tested for COVID-19.

What is the turnaround time for COVID-19 lab results for tests done at a UTRGV testing site?

After COVID-19 testing, it can take 1-2 days to get test results unless there is an extreme volume (Monday-Friday).

Do you get a call back if you are positive or negative?

Results will be sent via patient portal account which is linked to patient’s email. It is imperative that patients sign up through the patient portal in order to receive test results. A UTRGV assigned representative will call a patient only if there is a positive test result for COVID-19 (coronavirus).

If I already have a doctor’s referral, do I still need to request a phone screening?

Patients with a referral still need to call 1-833-UTRGVMD, have a Phone Screening and receive a scheduled appointment at one of the UTRGV COVID-19 drive-thru sites.

ORDERS/PRESS RELEASES

CLICK ON IMAGES TO VIEW FULL HIDALGO COUNTY SHELTER-AT-HOME EMERGENCY ORDER RELATED TO COVID-19 PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY (20-011)

07.20.2020 Hidalgo County Emergency Order 20-011-1

SPANISH 07202020.CountyofHidalgo.Order 20-011 copy-1

ORDERS PERTAINING TO LOCAL DISASTER DUE
TO PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY

Monday, July 20, 2020 — Hidalgo County Emergency Order 20-011-Shelter at Home. English/Spanish
Friday, July 17, 2020 — Health Authority Order to all Hidalgo County Residents. English/Spanish
Tuesday, July 14, 2020 — Hidalgo County Local Health Authority order for all public and private school systems related to on-campus instruction re-opening. English/Spanish
Thursday, June 25, 2020 — Amendment to County Order (20-008) related to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. English/Spanish
Thursday, June 25, 2020 — Supplemental Emergency Order Related to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (20-010). English/Spanish
Wednesday, June 17, 2020 — Supplemental Emergency Order Related to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (20-009). English/Spanish
Thursday, June 4, 2020 — Amended Emergency Order related to expanded opening of Texas during the Public Health Emergency.English/Spanish
Thursday, May 21, 2020 — Amended Emergency Order related to the Expanded Opening of Services in the County of Hidalgo, Texas during the Public Health Emergency. English/Spanish
Thursday, May 7, 2020 — Fifth Amended Emergency Order related to the reopening of additional services during the Public Health Emergency. English/Spanish
Thursday, April 30, 2020 — Fourth Amended Emergency Order related to the expanded reopening of select services during the Public Health Emergency.
Friday, April 23, 2020 — Third Amended Emergency Order related to the reopening of select services during the public health emergency.
Wednesday, April 8, 2020 — Work Safe Measures document for download.
Tuesday, April 7, 2020 — Amended Emergency Order
Este documento sirve como una traducción de la orden original de mantenerse en casa firmada por el juez del Condado de Hidalgo Richard F. Cortez.— Haga clic aquí para ver.
Wednesday, March 25, 2020 — Emergency Order for Shelter at Home
Sunday, March 22, 2020 — Emergency Order approved by Commissioner Court.
Friday, March 20, 2020 — Amended Order of Local Disaster due to Public Health Emergency.
Tuesday, March 17, 2020 — Declaration of Local Disaster due to Public Health Emergency.
Tuesday, March 17, 2020 — Commissioners Court Order.
Tuesday, March 17, 2020 — Letter to Texas Honorable Governor Greg Abbott

PRESS RELEASES

Monday, August 3, 2020 - COVID-19 claims an additional 26 lives; 398 test positive for the virus. Click here to read more.
Sunday, August 2, 2020 - A dozen more residents die; 347 test positive for COVID-19 in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Friday, July 31, 2020 - COVID-19 takes the lives of 28 people; 360 tested positive for the virus Click here to read more.
Thursday, July 30, 2020 - COVID-19 claims the lives of 40 people; 271 tested positive for the virus Click here to read more.
Wednesday, July 29, 2020 - Forty-five people die due to COVID-19 complications; 287 tested positive
for the virus. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, July 28, 2020 - COVID-19 claims the lives of 64 people_ 339 tested positive for the virus. Click here to read more.
Monday, July 27, 2020 - Eleven people die due to COVID-19 complications; 596 tested positive for the virus. Click here to read more.
Friday, July 24, 2020 - Twenty-three people die due to COVID-19 complications; 564 tested positive for the virus. Click here to read more.
Thursday, July 23, 2020 - COVID-19 takes the life of 33 more people in Hidalgo County and another 813 test positive for the virus. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, July 22, 2020 - Thirty three people die with COVID-19 complications and 650 people test positive. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, July 21, 2020 - Forty nine people die with COVID-19 complications and 339 people test positive. Click here to read more.
Monday, July 20, 2020 — Thirty four people die with COVID-19 complications and 524 people test positive. Click here to read more.
Monday, July 20, 2020 — Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez orders New Stay at Home Order. Click here to read more.
Sunday, July 19, 2020 — Seventeen people die with COVID-19 complications and 1,320 people test positive. Click here to read more.
Sunday, July 19, 2020 — Facebook Live event with Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez and special guests. Click here to read more.
Friday, July 17, 2020 — Twenty-seven people die with COVID-19 complications. Click here to read more.
Thursday, July 16, 2020 — Twenty-Two people die of COVID-19 complications; 1,248more test positive. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, July 15, 2020 — Thirty-five more people die of COVID-19 complications; 651 test positive. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, July 14, 2020 — 31 more people die of COVID-19 complications; 396 test positive. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, July 14, 2020 — Hidalgo County Local Health Authority issues order for remote learning at all schools until after September 27, 2020. Click here to read more.
Monday, July 13, 2020 — Two more die from COVID-19 complications; 157 more test positive for the virus. Click here to read more
Sunday, July 12, 2020 — Eight more people die of COVID-19 complications; 313 test positive. Click here to read more.
Friday, July 10, 2020 — Nineteen people die with COVID-19 complications. Click here to read more.
Thursday, July 9, 2020 — ‘Tsunami ishere,’ declares County Judge Cortez as 20 people die from COVID-19complications and another 1,274 people test positive. Click here to read more.
Thursday, July 9, 2020 — Hidalgo County Commissioners Holds Emergency Meeting. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, July 8, 2020 — Thirteen more people die of COVID-19 complications; 278 test positive. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, July 8, 2020 — Surge COVID-19 Testing Operations to shut down at 4 PM. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, July 7, 2020 — Fifteen more die and 335 test positive for COVID-19 in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Monday, July 6, 2020 — Sixteen more people die of COVID-19 complications; 102 others test positive. Click here to read more.
Monday, July 6, 2020 — Hidalgo County launches the $7 million Mortgage and Rent Relief Program for those affected by COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Sunday, July 5, 2020 — COVID-19 claims the life of one more person; 547 more people test positive. Click here to read more
Friday, July 3, 2020 — One person dies of COVID-19 complications; 278 more people test positive. Click here to read more.
Thursday, July 2, 2020 — Seven people die with COVID-19 complications; 268 people test positive. Click here to read more.
Thursday, July 2, 2020 — New requirements at COVID-19 testing sites. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, July 1, 2020 — Three people die due to COVID-19 complications; 270 people test positive. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, July 1, 2020 — State sends Ambulance Strike Team to provide aid amidst ample COVID-19 first responder calls. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, June 30, 2020 — COVID-19 claims the lives of 11 Hidalgo County residents. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, June 30, 2020 — Hidalgo County Health Authority tests positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Monday, June 29, 2020 — Three more people died from complications related to COVID-19; 248 people test positive for the virus. Click here to read more.
Monday, June 29, 2020 — Hidalgo County Judge, Commissioner and local hospital administrators to hold press conference to discuss current COVID-19 situation. Click here to read more.
Sunday, June 28, 2020 — COVID-19 takes the life of one more person in Hidalgo County; 402 more test positive. Click here to read more.
Friday, June 26, 2020 — COVID-19 takes the lives of two more people in Hidalgo County; 197 more test positive. Click here to read more.
Thursday, June 25, 2020 — 210 test positive for COVID-19 in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, June 24, 2020 — Four Hidalgo County residents die and 373 test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, June 23, 2020 — Two more die and 248 test positive for COVID-19 in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Monday, June 22, 2020 — COVID-19 takes the life of another person in Hidalgo County; another 193 test positive for the virus. Click here to read more.
Sunday, June 21, 2020 — 133 more tests positive for COVID-19; one person dies from complications from the disease. Click here to read more.
Friday, June 19, 2020 — Another Hidalgo County Resident dies from COVID-19 complications as 109 test positive. Click here to read more.
Thursday, June 18, 2020 — Another Hidalgo County Resident dies from COVID-19 complications as 100 test positive. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, June 17, 2020 — Two more deaths, 92 more positive tests for COVID-19 in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, June 16, 2020 — COVID-19 takes the lives of 2 more residents in Hidalgo County, anothr 143 test positive for the virus. Click here to read more.
Monday, June 15, 2020 — COVID-19 takes the lives of 3 more residents in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Sunday, June 14, 2020 — Hidalgo County surpasses 1,000-mark for positive COVID-19 cases. Click here to read more.
Friday, June 12, 2020 — Fifty-five more people test positive in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Thursday, June 11, 2020 — Seventy more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, June 10, 2020 — Thirty-eight more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, June 9, 2020 — Forty-five more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Monday, June 8, 2020 — Twenty-six more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Sunday, June 7, 2020 — Thirty-two more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Friday, June 5, 2020 — Another Hidalgo County resident dies after testing positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Thursday, June 4, 2020 — Forty-five test positive in Hidalgo County for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Thursday, June 4, 2020 — Hidalgo County awarded over 4 million dollars in CARES Act Funding for homeless residents. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, June 3, 2020 — Twenty-four test positive in Hidalgo County for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, June 2, 2020 — Twenty-six positive cases in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, June 2, 2020 — Hidalgo Commissioners Court increases allotment of federal COVID-19 funds for local municipalities and rural areas. Click here to read more.
Monday, June 1, 2020 — Hidalgo County sees 11th COVID-19 related death. Click here to read more.
Sunday, May 31, 2020 — Fifteen more people test positive for COVID-19 in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Friday, May 29, 2020 — Twelve more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Thursday, May 28, 2020 — Eleven more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, May 27, 2020 — Twenty-one more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, May 26, 2020 — Twelve more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Monday, May 24, 2020 — Seven more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19 - Click here to read more.
Sunday, May 24, 2020 — Fifteen more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19 - Click here to read more.
Friday, May 22, 2020 — Ten more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19 - Click here to read more.
Thursday, May 21, 2020 — Five more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, May 20, 2020 — Ten more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, May 19, 2020 — Nine people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, May 19, 2020 — Hidalgo County Commissioners Court makes $63 million in federal COVID-19 money available to local municipalities. Click here to read more.
Monday, May 18, 2020 — Eight people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Sunday, May 17, 2020 — Fifteen more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Friday, May 15, 2020 — Eight people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Thursday, May 14, 2020 — Eight more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, May 13, 2020 — Two people in Hidalgo County die after testing positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, May 12, 2020 — Nine more people test positive for COVID-19 in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, May 12, 2020 — Hidalgo County to greatly expand testing for its residents. Click here to read more.
Monday, May 11, 2020 — Five more test positive for COVID-19 in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Sunday, May 10, 2020 — Two new cases of COVID-19 in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Saturday, May 9, 2020 — Mission man dies after testing positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Friday, May 8, 2020 — Nine more people test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Friday, May 8, 2020 — Tax Office Reopens all locations starting Monday, May 11. Click here to read more.
Friday, May 8, 2020 — Hair salons, swimming pool among new facilities that may open under new Hidalgo County orders. Click here to read more.
Thursday, May, 7, 2020 — Nine more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Thursday, May 7, 2020 — Hidalgo County employee tests positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, May 6, 2020 — Six more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, May 5, 2020 — No new cases of COVID-19 in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Monday, May 4, 2020 — Another Hidalgo County resident dies after testing positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Sunday, May 3, 2020 — One person in Hidalgo County tests positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Saturday, May 2, 2020 — Only one person in Hidalgo County tests positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Friday, May 1, 2020 — Five more in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Thursday, April 30, 2020 — Ten more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, April 29, 2020 — Nine more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, April 28, 2020 — Weslaco man becomes sixth Hidalgo County fatality after testing positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Monday, April, 27, 2020 — Alamo man dies after testing positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Monday, April 27, 2020 — Hidalgo County Judge reacts to Governor Greg Abbott’s Open Texas plan. Click here to read more.
Sunday, April, 26, 2020 — Five more in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19 on Sunday. Click here to read more.
Saturday, April, 25, 2020 — Four more in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19; lowest number in a month. Click here to read more.
Friday, April, 24, 2020 — For the second day in a row, nine people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Friday, April 24, 2020 — Hidalgo County Implements Retail to Go Orders. Click here to read more.
Thursday, April 23, 2020 — Nine more in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, April 22, 2020 — Mission woman becomes 4th COVID-19 related fatality. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, April 21, 2020 — Seven more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19; total cases now 275. Click here to read more.
Monday, April 20, 2020 — 7 more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Sunday, April 19, 2020 — Six more in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Saturday, April 18, 2020 — 13 more in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Friday, April 17, 2020 — Seven more people in Hidalgo County Test Positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Friday, April 17, 2020 — County Judge host virtual Interfaith Hour of Prayer and Reflection. Click here to read more.
Thursday, April 16, 2020 — Hidalgo County sees its third COVID-19 related death. Click here to read.
Wednesday, April 15, 2020 — Second person in Hidalgo County dies after testing positive for COVID-19 virus. Click here to read.
Wednesday, April 15, 2020 — Hidalgo County Clerk offering services by appointment only. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, April 14, 2020 — Nineteen more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, April 14, 2020 — This is not the time to relax our community controls’: Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez delivers message to residents of the county. Click here to read more.
Monday, April 13, 2020 — Eight more test positive in Hidalgo County for COVID-19 virus; 21 released from isolation. Click here to read more.
Sunday, April 12, 2020 — Two more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Saturday, April 11, 2020 — Seven new cases of COVID-19 in Hidalgo County; Officials warn against use of Inflatable Playscapes on Easter. Click here to read more.
Friday, April 10, 2020 — 35 additional people test positive for COVID-19 in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Thursday, April 9, 2020 — Seven more Hidalgo County residents test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, April 8, 2020 — 11 more Hidalgo County residents test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, April 7, 2020 — Hidalgo County resident with COVID-19 dies. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, April 7, 2020 — Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez Enacts Stricter Measures to Mitigate COVID-19 Spread. Click here to read more.
Monday, April 6, 2020 — Fourteen more Hidalgo County residents test positive. Click here to read more.
Sunday, April 5, 2020 — Thirteen More People Test Positive in Hidalgo County. Click here to read more.
Friday, April 3, 2020 — Seven more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Friday, April 3, 2020 — Hidalgo County Clerk’s Office modification of services. Click here to read more.
Friday, April 3, 2020 — CBP to realign staffing and hours of operation across ports of entry, including Anzalduas Port of Entry. Click here to read more. ⁄ Haga clic aquí para leer más.
Friday, April 3, 2020 — Small Businesses, Sole Proprietorships may apply for Federal Paycheck Protection today. Click here to read more.
Thursday, April 2, 2020 — Seventeen people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Thursday, April 2, 2020 — Tax Office limiting office visits to one person per group. Click here to read more.
Wednesday, April 1, 2020 — Sixteen more people in Hidalgo County Test Positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, March 31, 2020 — Eight more people in Hidalgo County test positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, March 31, 2020 — Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez: "A Tsunami is coming". Click here to read more.
Monday, March 30, 2020 — Ten more people in Hidalgo County test positive. Click here to read more.
Sunday, March 29, 2020 — Hidalgo County Resident Tests Positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Saturday, March 28, 2020 — Nine More People in Hidalgo County Test Positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Friday, March 27, 2020 — Seven More People in Hidalgo County Test Positive for COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Friday, March 27, 2020 — County Tax Offices undergo operational changes. Click here to read more.
Thursday, March 26, 2020 — Two more people in Hidalgo County have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Click here to read more.
Thursday, March 26, 2020 — Ninth Person in Hidalgo County Tests Positive for COVID-19. Click Here to read more.
Wednesday, March 25, 2020 — Judge Richard F. Cortez signed Shelter-At-Home Order. Click Here to read more.
Wednesday, March 25, 2020 — Judge Richard F. Cortez announces Shelter-At-Home Order. Click Here to read more.
Wednesday, March 25, 2020 — News Advisory of Virtual Press Conference. Click here to read more.
Tuesday March 24, 2020 — A plan of action is announced by Hidalgo County Criminal District Attorney Ricardo Rodriguez, Jr. to temporarily implement that all Protective Order applications adhere to be received by phone to ensure the safety of citizens and employees of Hidalgo County. Click Here to read more. Aqui en Español.
Tuesday, March 24, 2020 — Hidalgo County Commissioners Court voted unanimously on Tuesday to suspend normal operations beginning Monday, March 30 because of “events beyond the control of the County,” related to the pandemic of COVID-19. The order will remain in effect until Monday, April 27. Click here to read more.
Tuesday March 24, 2020 — Hidalgo County Commissioners Court: A Primer in the Time of COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Monday, March 23, 2020 — During an emergency meeting of the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court on Sunday morning, a declaration of local disaster made by Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez was extended until April 5. Commissioners Court also extended the ban on gatherings of 10 or more people and outlined the types of gatherings that are banned as well as critical infrastructure that may remain open. Click here to read more.
Monday, March 23, 2020 — Statement from Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez.
Sunday, March 22, 2020 — Hidalgo County health officials have a second confirmed case of COVID-19, Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez said Sunday. Click here to read more.
Saturday, March 21, 2020 — First case of COVID-19 in Hidalgo County is Confirmed. Click here to read more.
Thursday, March 19, 2020 — Judge Richard F. Cortez signs an Amended Order of Local Disaster due to Public Health Emergency - March 20, 2020
Thursday, March 19, 2020 —Tax Offices limiting in-person transactions to ten at a time Click here to read more for Spanish click here
Tuesday, March 17, 2020 — Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez signs disaster declaration; orders no mass gathering of 50 people or more. Click to read more.
Tuesday, March 17, 2020 — 2020 South Texas All Hazards Conference postponed Click here to read more.
Monday, March 16, 2020 — Jury cancellations through May 8th and grand jury cancellations scheduled for April 1st. Click here to read more.
Monday, March 16, 2020 — Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez issued a Disaster Declaration due to a Public Health Emergency after consulting with the leadership of all 22 municipalities within the county. Click here to read more.
Sunday, March 15, 2020 — Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez: ‘Prepare for Students Returning Home from Campuses Shut Down because of COVID-19 Outbreak.’ Click here to read more.
Friday, March 13, 2020 — Based on new advisories coming from state health experts regarding COVID-19, Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez is advising all residents to avoid public gatherings in which more than 1,000 people are expected. Click here to read more.
Friday, March 13, 2020 — All jury panels in Hidalgo County have been cancelled for the week of March 16, 2020. Click here to read more.
Friday, March 13, 2020 — Given the emergency declarations by President Donald Trump at the national level and Governor Greg Abbott at the state level, Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez issued the following statement. Click here to read more.
Monday, March 9, 2020 — As part of his ongoing effort to be prepared for any contingency related to the coronavirus, Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez met with 18 area mayors or their representatives on Monday to share the county’s state of preparedness. Click here to read more.
Thursday, March 5, 2020 — Although the risk of contracting coronavirus remains low in this region, Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez said Thursday that he wants to move in a cautious manner and assure that all resources are available to prepare for any potential outbreak. In response to reports of a presumptive positive case of COVID-19, or coronavirus, Judge Cortez announced that the Hidalgo County Office of Emergency Management and the Hidalgo County Health and Human Services Department are moving to a Level 3 BIO Emergency Operations Status. Click here to read more.
Tuesday, March 3, 2020 —The non-elected heads of most major Hidalgo County departments were asked by County Judge Richard F. Cortez on Tuesday to review and update their agency’s emergency management plans to prepare for all contingencies related to any possible future spread of coronavirus into the region. Click here to read more.
Monday, March 2, 2020 — Hidalgo County has created a new webpage dedicated to the latest updates on COVID-19. Click here to read more.
Monday, March 2, 2020 — Hidalgo County Health & Human Services urges the public NOT to spread false information on social media. NO ONE in Hidalgo County has been diagnosed with COVID-19. Only the Center for Disease Control can confirm if someone has the virus, not local labs. Our Health & Human Services Department or the Texas Department of State Health Services will be the one to announce it, if and when the first case of coronavirus occurs in Hidalgo County. In order to prevent coronavirus from spreading in our community it is important to wash hands frequently, disinfect all surfaces, reinforce preventative measures by posting health awareness and stay up to date with travel alerts.

FAQ'S

HIDALGO COUNTY ORDER SUMMARY - English and Spanish

HIDAGLO COUNTY ORDER 20-011 SUMMARY

Hidalgo County Order 20-011 implement SHELTER-AT-HOME requiring residents to stay at home, and a CURFEW as follows:

Persons (17) years or younger must be accompanied by adult or guardian unless;
Providing covered and essential services
Emergency purposes
Persons 18 and over are under curfew from 10:00 pm to 5:00 am, unless:
Providing covered essential services
Emergency purposes

However, travel outside of one’s residence during the SHELTER-AT-HOME and CURFEW should be limited to:

To engage in activities or perform tasks essential to their health and safety, or to the health and safety of their family or household members (for example, obtaining medical supplies or medication, visiting a health care professional, or obtaining supplies needed to work from home).

To obtain necessary services or supplies for themselves and their family or household members, and products necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of households, or to deliver those services or supplies to others.

To engage in outdoor activity, such as visiting open parks, hunting or fishing, engaging in physical activity like walking, running or bicycling, provided the individuals, follow CDC guidance, comply with Physical Distancing including maintaining six-foot (6) physical distancing from each other; washing hands with soap and water at least twenty seconds or using hand sanitizer; covering coughs or sneezes; cleaning high-touch surfaces; not shaking hands; and covering mouth and nose when conducting activity within six feet(6) of another person.

To perform work providing essential products and services at an essential covered business or to otherwise carry out activities specifically permitted in this Order.

To care for a family member, a child or pet in another household.

Any travel related to the provision of or access to essential covered services.

Travel to care for elderly, minors, dependents, persons with disabilities, or other vulnerable persons.

Travel to return to a place of residence, including from outside the jurisdiction

Travel to return from a place of employment, including from outside the jurisdiction

Travel required by First Responders, Law Enforcement or court order.

Travel required for non-residents to return to their place of residence outside the County.

Public Transportation should only be used for purposes of obtaining or performing:

Essential covered services.
To travel to and from work for the purposes of providing Covered Services.
The Order is also recommending that no more than two (2) persons per vehicle for persons obtaining essential services, and four (4) persons per vehicles for essential Healthcare Operations, Government Functions, Essential Commercial services, and U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Cyber Security and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) in its Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce.

In compliance with Governor Abbott’s Executive Order GA-29, County Orders 20-011 is also related to face covering and outdoor gathering including:

That every person in your City and for that matter the County of Hidalgo shall wear a face covering over the nose and mouth when:

Inside a commercial entity or other building or space open to the public, or when in an outdoor public space.
Wherever it is not feasible to maintain six feet (6) of physical social distancing from another person not in the same household.

This face-covering requirement does not apply to the following:

Any person younger than 10 years of age;
Any person with a medical condition or disability that prevents wearing a face covering;
Any person while the person is consuming food or drink, or is seated at a restaurant to eat or drink;
Any person while the person is (a) exercising outdoors or engaging in physical activity outdoors, and (b) maintaining a safe distance from other people not in the same household;
Any person while the person is driving alone or with passengers who are part of the same household as the driver;
Any person obtaining as service that requires temporary removal of the face covering for security surveillance, screening, or a need for specific access to the face, such as while visiting a bank or while obtaining a personal care service involving the face, but only to the extent necessary for the temporary removal;
Any person while the person is in a swimming pool, lake, or similar body of water;
Any person who is voting, assisting a voter, serving as a poll watcher, or activity administering an election, but wearing a face covering is strongly encouraged;
Any person who is actively providing or obtaining access to religious worship, but wearing a face covering is strongly encouraged;
Any person while the person is giving a speech for a broadcast or to an audience.

The Governor and the County Order state that people shall not be in groups larger than ten (10) and shall maintain six feet (6) of physical distancing from those not in their group or household. And;

That any outdoor gathering in excess of ten (10) people is prohibited, unless approved by:

The Mayor of the City in which the gathering is held.
The Hidalgo County Judge in the case of a gathering in an unincorporated area.
Indoor establishments remain at 50% of the total listed occupancy limit.
51% alcohol sales establishments remain closed (may do curbside/takeout).
This is no occupancy limit for the following:
Any services listed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Cyber Security and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) in its Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce, Version 3.1 or any subsequent version;
Religious services conducted in churches, congregations, and houses of worship;
Local government operations, including county and municipal government operations relating to licensing (including marriage licenses), permitting, recordation, document-filing services, as determined by the local government;
Child-care services;
Youth camps, including but not limited to those defined as such under Chapter 141 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, and including all summer camps, and other daytime and overnight camps for youth; and Recreational sports programs for youths and adults;

The City’s, via the Governor’s Order and County Order have now been provided more local/City control, not only as it relates to outdoor gathering in your City jurisdiction, but also enforcing facial covering within your jurisdiction. We all understand that No law enforcement or other official may detain, arrest, or confine in jail any person for a violation of the Order, however law enforcement may enforce trespassing laws and remove violators at the request of a business establishment or other property owner.

But the Governor has made it clear that the Cities can do their part in protecting the health and safety of our County citizens.

The Governor has authorized local law enforcement and officials to act, and stated his Order shall be enforced by issuing;

1. A verbal or written warning for a first-time violation of this face covering

2. A person’s second violation shall be punishable by a fine not to exceed $250.

3. Each violation after that may shall punishable by a fine not to exceed $250 per violation.

And shutting down outdoor gatherings which are not approved by the City Mayors and/or not exempted by the Governor’s Order.

COUNTY/STATE UPDATES

PUBLIC INFORMATION ACT CATASTROPHE NOTICE

Hidalgo County has issued a Catastrophe Notice and Extension pursuant to Section 552.233, Texas Government Code which provides for the temporary suspension of the applicability of the requirements of the Public Information Act effective April 6, 2020, to April 19, 2020. Copies of the notices are available here.

Section 552.233 of the Government Code permits a governmental body impacted by a catastrophe or disaster to suspend the applicability of the Act for up 14 calendar days. Use of the section 552.233 suspension process is appropriate where a governmental body is open for business but determines that a catastrophe has interfered with its ability to comply with the Act.

Please note that you may continue to submit your requests for information via open.records@co.hidalgo.tx.us or by faxing your written request to (956) 292-7766 and we will continue to respond as promptly as possible given current circumstances.

OFFICE OF THE CRIMINAL DISTRICT ATTORNEY

RICARDO RODRIGUEZ, JR.

PROTECTIVE ORDER APPLICANTS / SOLICITANTES DE ORDENES DE PROTECCION

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE GUIDANCE / ORIENTACION SOBRE VIOLENCIA DOMESTICA

INFORMATION SHARED FROM HIDALGO COUNTY COURTS AND MASTER COURTS

HIDALGO COUNTY COURTS: JUDICIAL ORDERS

HIDALGO COUNTY MASTER COURT #1 RESET DATES

HIDALGO COUNTY MASTER COURT #2 RESET DATES

OTHER IMPORTANT PUBLIC AWARENESS:

INFORMATION LISTED BELOW IS INTENDED TO HELP PROVIDE THE COMMUNITY WITH IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CITY FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.

HIDALGO COUNTY CITY INFORMATION

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