In the face of business closures, and an order from the governor banning gatherings or more than 10 people, Galveston beaches are still seeing beachgoers gather for some time outside. While people were on the local beaches, they have not been as crowded as those in other states. UTMB’s Scott Weaver said beachgoers should continue to practice social distancing of 6 feet or more, but noted that the breeze and ultraviolet sun rays should keep the risk infection to a minimum.

Local coverage of UTMB’s planning efforts to deal with an expected increase in patients hospitalized because of coronavirus infection. “We are adding more beds to our League City campus, 60 rooms, and we have 56 additional beds at Clear Lake,” said UTMB’s Gulshan Sharma.

This week, Victor Sierpina explains how change can be health and life promoting.

The Galveston County Daily News, March 18, 2020 - The latest coronavirus updates - Volunteers needed for HPV vaccine study

The Houston Health Museum recently hosted a COVID-19 question and answer session that included UTMB’s Scott Weaver. Panel participants explained that COVID-19 is difficult to deal with because it is hard to trace contacts and patterns of spread when there are asymptomatic people. The session was livestreamed on the museum’s Facebook page.

Many are asking how a person can explain to young children the current situation with coronavirus. UTMB’s Jeff Temple provides advice for listeners for Texas Public Radio. The Texas Standard and KUT 90.5 Austin also shared Temple’s advice.

Despite the ongoing coronavirus crisis, this Houston reporter found crowds still gathering to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day seemingly oblivious to health officials calls for social distancing. “The social distancing, all the news that is coming from all public health officials, I think it is important that we should listen to those messages,” said UTMB’s Gulshan Sharma.

As cases of COVID-19 continue to rise, older adults remain particularly susceptible to the illness. UTMB’s Vineet Menachery says this is typical of coronaviruses. “Age and your condition in life will really drive your susceptibility. You may be in your 40s, but if you have these chronic health conditions, you’re going to be more susceptible, just like you see with flu,” said Menachery.

UTMB’s Susan McLellan recently took time to answer listener’s questions on Houston Public Media. McLellan, sharing information about the importance of social distancing to dampen the spread of coronavirus.

A local report on actions taken by local entities to deal with COVID-19. The story Included information provided by UTMB on changes to the visitation policy and notice that the annual SHP Causeway FunD Run/Walk has been cancelled.