CLICK HERE TO USE THE CDC SELF-CHECKER IF YOU HAVE COVID-19 SYMPTOMS
READ THE LATEST TEXAS EXECUTIVE ORDERS AND PUBLIC HEALTH DISASTER DECLARATIONS
READ GOVERNOR ABBOTT'S EXECUTIVE ORDER GA-18
READ GOVERNOR ABBOTT'S STRIKE FORCE REPORT TO OPEN TEXAS
UPDATE MARCH 27 2020
SMITH COUNTY AND TROUP UNDER A 'STAY AT HOME' ORDER
Download Troup's and Smith County's Order Here
March 27, 2020
The medical situation with the COVID-19 virus changes on a moment-by-moment basis. Consequently, Troup’s response to the pandemic must adapt to the facts on the ground.
Smith County Judge Nathaniel Moran made the decision to issue a “Stay at Home” order for Smith County after consultation with medical and public health experts at the local level including area doctors and hospitals.
The Smith County order has no legal authority in Cherokee County. Therefore, it is necessary for me to issue a local “Stay at Home” order so that the entire Troup city limits is covered.
DURING THE STAY AT HOME ORDER, ALL ESSENTIAL SERVICES IN TROUP WILL STILL BE AVAILABLE TO YOU JUST AS THEY ARE NOW, food stores will be open, gas stations will be open, restaurants will continue to offer drive through and carry out services, banks will be open, lumber yards will be open and stores selling agricultural products will be open. I have surveyed the manufacturing companies in Troup. They all provide products to essential industries, so they too will continue to operate.
All travel to and from any medical appointment or emergency medical services and pharmacies in any location is, of course, essential.
As you can see, almost nothing has changed in Troup.
As far as you are able, while continuing to see to your essential needs, I encourage you to stay home during this 14 day “Stay at Home”. We can save lives by following the recommendations of our local medical community and public health experts.
Please remember, Troup is the “Good Neighbor” town. Again, as we work together during this time our prayers are important for each of us.
Sincerely,
Joe Carlyle, Mayor
City of Troup
THE COMPLETE LIST OF CRITICAL WORKFORCE CAN BE DOWNLOADED HERE
UPDATE MARCH 19 2020
GOVERNOR ABBOTT ISSUES THE FOLLOWING ORDERS RELATING TO COVID-19
Troup Mayor Joe Carlyle and the Troup City Council urge Troup citizens to follow the orders of Governor Abbott. The City of Troup will not be issuing any guidelines beyond those issued by the Governor.
"The following orders have been issued by Governor Abbott:
• Order No. 1: In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, every person in Texas shall avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people.
• Order No. 2: In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, people shall avoid eating or drinking at bars, restaurants, and food courts, or visiting gyms or massage parlors; provided, however, that the use of drive-thru, pickup, or delivery options is allowed and highly encouraged throughout the limited duration of this executive order.
• Order No. 3: In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, people shall not visit nursing homes or retirement or long-term care facilities unless to provide critical assistance.
• Order No. 4: In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, schools shall temporarily close.
These orders will be effective on a statewide basis starting at 11:59 PM on March 20, 2020 and will end at 11:59 PM on April 3, 2020, subject to extension thereafter based on the status of COVID-19 in Texas and the recommendations of the CDC.
This executive order does not prohibit people from visiting a variety of places, including grocery stores, gas stations, parks, and banks, so long as the necessary precautions are maintained to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. This executive order does not mandate sheltering in place. All critical infrastructure will remain operational, domestic travel will remain unrestricted, and government entities and businesses will continue providing essential services."
The City of Troup encourages you to be informed about the COVID-19 Virus
Our primary source of information on the virus is the Northeast Texas Public Health District. This link takes you directly to their page with local details and CDC links for the COVID-19 virus.
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) also has a page with information on the COVID-19 Virus. This link takes your directly to their page with their information.
The City of Troup remains open and all city departments are functioning as normal during this time of concern. We ask that everyone practice safe “social distancing”.
For your health and the health of city employees, we ask that anyone having fever, a cough, or shortness of breath avoid coming into city hall and that you seek medical advice.
We encourage as many as possible to pay their water utility bill online or by telephone. The link to pay online is: https://www.govpaynow.com/gps/user/plc/6597. To pay by telephone, dial 903.842.3128 and select 10, 11, or 15.
If you wish to pay in person, and are paying by check, we ask you to place your payment in the outside collection box. If you would like a receipt, we can mail or email you one if you call us at 903.842.3128 and select 10, 11, or 15 or simply indicate with a note on your payment that you would like a receipt and how you would like it sent to you.
If you are paying in cash, please try to have the correct change. If you must come inside to pay, and observe someone already at the customer service window inside city hall, please remain outside or in your vehicle until that person exits city hall.
Those wishing to pay their City of Troup Municipal Court fines may also do that online at: https://www.govpaynow.com/gps/user/plc/6598. To pay by telephone dial 903.842.3128 and select 10 or 11.
The City of Troup apologizes for the inconvenience as we all work together to safely get through this challenging time.
PRESIDENTIAL GUIDANCE MARCH 16, 2020
CDC UPDATE March 15, 2020
Guidance as of 3/15/2020
Large events and mass gatherings can contribute to the spread of COVID-19 in the United States via travelers who attend these events and introduce the virus to new communities. Examples of large events and mass gatherings include conferences, festivals, parades, concerts, sporting events, weddings, and other types of assemblies. These events can be planned not only by organizations and communities but also by individuals.
Therefore, CDC, in accordance with its guidance for large events and mass gatherings,recommends that for the next 8 weeks, organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.
Events of any size should only be continued if they can be carried out with adherence to guidelines for protecting vulnerable populations, hand hygiene, and social distancing. When feasible, organizers could modify events to be virtual.
This recommendation does not apply to the day to day operation of organizations such as schools, institutes of higher learning, or businessesThis recommendation is made in an attempt to reduce introduction of the virus into new communities and to slow the spread of infection in communities already affected by the virus. This recommendation is not intended to supersede the advice of local public health officials.
UPDATE March 15, 2020
The City of Troup remains open and all city departments are functioning as normal during this time of concern. We ask that everyone practice safe “social distancing”.
For your health and the health of city employees, we ask that anyone having fever, a cough, or shortness of breath avoid coming into city hall and that you seek medical advice.
We encourage as many as possible to pay their water utility bill online or by telephone. The link to pay online is: https://www.govpaynow.com/gps/user/plc/6597. To pay by telephone, dial 903.842.3128 and select 10, 11, or 15.
If you wish to pay in person, and are paying by check, we ask you to place your payment in the outside collection box. If you would like a receipt, we can mail or email you one if you call us at 903.842.3128 and select 10, 11, or 15 or simply indicate with a note on your payment that you would like a receipt and how you would like it sent to you.
If you are paying in cash, please try to have the correct change. If you must come inside to pay, and observe someone already at the customer service window inside city hall, please remain outside or in your vehicle until that person exits city hall.
Those wishing to pay their City of Troup Municipal Court fines may also do that online at: https://www.govpaynow.com/gps/user/plc/6598. To pay by telephone dial 903.842.3128 and select 10 or 11.
The City of Troup apologizes for the inconvenience as we all work together to safely get through this challenging time.
UPDATE March 13, 2020
Governor Abbott Holds Press Conference On Coronavirus, Declares State Of Disaster For All Texas Counties
UPATE March 13, 2020
The Northeast Texas Public Health District has received confirmation of three positive cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Tyler area.
All three of the confirmed patients have a recent travel history outside of the United States and their test results were confirmed by the Public Health Lab of East Texas (PHLET).
“All proper notification processes are being followed with our state and local officials and that proper procedures are being followed on the testing of cases,” said Dr. Jeff Levin, Smith County Health Authority.
“None of these individuals contracted COVID-19 while in East Texas and all three individuals are in isolation from the general population,” says George Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of NET Health. “The public has a responsibility to follow recommendations from health officials, such as home quarantine.”
Everyone in East Texas should remember to take the same measures that are recommended to prevent the spread of the flu and all respiratory viruses.
Prevention of COVID-19
There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID‑19. The best way to prevent infection is to take steps to avoid exposure to this virus, which are similar to the steps you take to avoid the flu.
DSHS recommends these everyday actions to help prevent the spread of any respiratory virus, including COVID‑19:
- Wash hands often for 20 seconds and encourage others to do the same.
- If no soap and water are available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue away.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Disinfect surfaces, buttons, handles, knobs, and other places touched often.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
DSHS also recommends that you start practicing social distancing. Social distancing involves staying away from other people to avoid catching or spreading illness. It’s a fancy term for avoiding crowds and minimizing physical contact. This could mean avoiding concerts or weddings, skipping the handshake, and/or staying at least six feet away from others.
Symptoms of COVID-19
Patients with COVID‑19 have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness. Symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
What to Do If You Are Sick
Symptoms of COVID‑19 may show up 2‑14 days after exposure. The steps you should take if you think you are sick with COVID‑19 depend on whether you have a higher risk of developing severe illness.
High-Risk Individuals:
- People 65 years or older, and/or people with medical issues, like heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, or a weakened immune system, are at a higher risk for getting very sick from COVID‑19.
- If you are a high-risk individual and you develop fever or symptoms, call your doctor.
- If you are not sick enough to be hospitalized, you can recover at home. Follow your doctor’s instructions and refer to CDC recommendations for how to take care of yourself at home.
General Population:
- If you are in generally good health and have mild symptoms, stay home and take care of yourself like you would for a cold or the flu.
- If symptoms worsen, call your doctor.
How COVID-19 Spreads
Current understanding about how the virus that causes COVID‑19 spreads is largely based on what is known about similar coronaviruses.
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person:
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- Via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
People are thought to be most contagious when they are most symptomatic (the sickest). Some spread might be possible before people show symptoms; there have been reports of this with this new coronavirus, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
Download the Stop the Spread of Germs flyer.
Read the latest information from the CDC on how COVID‑19 is spread.
CLICK HERE TO USE THE CDC SELF-CHECKER IF YOU HAVE COVID-19 SYMPTOMS
UPDATE MARCH 27 2020
SMITH COUNTY AND TROUP UNDER A 'STAY AT HOME' ORDER
Download Troup's and Smith County's Order Here
March 27, 2020
The medical situation with the COVID-19 virus changes on a moment-by-moment basis. Consequently, Troup’s response to the pandemic must adapt to the facts on the ground.
Smith County Judge Nathaniel Moran made the decision to issue a “Stay at Home” order for Smith County after consultation with medical and public health experts at the local level including area doctors and hospitals.
The Smith County order has no legal authority in Cherokee County. Therefore, it is necessary for me to issue a local “Stay at Home” order so that the entire Troup city limits is covered.
DURING THE STAY AT HOME ORDER, ALL ESSENTIAL SERVICES IN TROUP WILL STILL BE AVAILABLE TO YOU JUST AS THEY ARE NOW, food stores will be open, gas stations will be open, restaurants will continue to offer drive through and carry out services, banks will be open, lumber yards will be open and stores selling agricultural products will be open. I have surveyed the manufacturing companies in Troup. They all provide products to essential industries, so they too will continue to operate.
All travel to and from any medical appointment or emergency medical services and pharmacies in any location is, of course, essential.
As you can see, almost nothing has changed in Troup.
As far as you are able, while continuing to see to your essential needs, I encourage you to stay home during this 14 day “Stay at Home”. We can save lives by following the recommendations of our local medical community and public health experts.
Please remember, Troup is the “Good Neighbor” town. Again, as we work together during this time our prayers are important for each of us.
Sincerely,
Joe Carlyle, Mayor
City of Troup
THE COMPLETE LIST OF CRITICAL WORKFORCE CAN BE DOWNLOADED HERE
UPDATE MARCH 19 2020
GOVERNOR ABBOTT ISSUES THE FOLLOWING ORDERS RELATING TO COVID-19
Troup Mayor Joe Carlyle and the Troup City Council urge Troup citizens to follow the orders of Governor Abbott. The City of Troup will not be issuing any guidelines beyond those issued by the Governor.
"The following orders have been issued by Governor Abbott:
• Order No. 1: In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, every person in Texas shall avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people.
• Order No. 2: In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, people shall avoid eating or drinking at bars, restaurants, and food courts, or visiting gyms or massage parlors; provided, however, that the use of drive-thru, pickup, or delivery options is allowed and highly encouraged throughout the limited duration of this executive order.
• Order No. 3: In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, people shall not visit nursing homes or retirement or long-term care facilities unless to provide critical assistance.
• Order No. 4: In accordance with the Guidelines from the President and the CDC, schools shall temporarily close.
These orders will be effective on a statewide basis starting at 11:59 PM on March 20, 2020 and will end at 11:59 PM on April 3, 2020, subject to extension thereafter based on the status of COVID-19 in Texas and the recommendations of the CDC.
This executive order does not prohibit people from visiting a variety of places, including grocery stores, gas stations, parks, and banks, so long as the necessary precautions are maintained to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. This executive order does not mandate sheltering in place. All critical infrastructure will remain operational, domestic travel will remain unrestricted, and government entities and businesses will continue providing essential services."
The City of Troup encourages you to be informed about the COVID-19 Virus
Our primary source of information on the virus is the Northeast Texas Public Health District. This link takes you directly to their page with local details and CDC links for the COVID-19 virus.
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) also has a page with information on the COVID-19 Virus. This link takes your directly to their page with their information.
The City of Troup remains open and all city departments are functioning as normal during this time of concern. We ask that everyone practice safe “social distancing”.
For your health and the health of city employees, we ask that anyone having fever, a cough, or shortness of breath avoid coming into city hall and that you seek medical advice.
We encourage as many as possible to pay their water utility bill online or by telephone. The link to pay online is: https://www.govpaynow.com/gps/user/plc/6597. To pay by telephone, dial 903.842.3128 and select 10, 11, or 15.
If you wish to pay in person, and are paying by check, we ask you to place your payment in the outside collection box. If you would like a receipt, we can mail or email you one if you call us at 903.842.3128 and select 10, 11, or 15 or simply indicate with a note on your payment that you would like a receipt and how you would like it sent to you.
If you are paying in cash, please try to have the correct change. If you must come inside to pay, and observe someone already at the customer service window inside city hall, please remain outside or in your vehicle until that person exits city hall.
Those wishing to pay their City of Troup Municipal Court fines may also do that online at: https://www.govpaynow.com/gps/user/plc/6598. To pay by telephone dial 903.842.3128 and select 10 or 11.
The City of Troup apologizes for the inconvenience as we all work together to safely get through this challenging time.
PRESIDENTIAL GUIDANCE MARCH 16, 2020
CDC UPDATE March 15, 2020
Guidance as of 3/15/2020
Large events and mass gatherings can contribute to the spread of COVID-19 in the United States via travelers who attend these events and introduce the virus to new communities. Examples of large events and mass gatherings include conferences, festivals, parades, concerts, sporting events, weddings, and other types of assemblies. These events can be planned not only by organizations and communities but also by individuals.
Therefore, CDC, in accordance with its guidance for large events and mass gatherings,recommends that for the next 8 weeks, organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.
Events of any size should only be continued if they can be carried out with adherence to guidelines for protecting vulnerable populations, hand hygiene, and social distancing. When feasible, organizers could modify events to be virtual.
This recommendation does not apply to the day to day operation of organizations such as schools, institutes of higher learning, or businessesThis recommendation is made in an attempt to reduce introduction of the virus into new communities and to slow the spread of infection in communities already affected by the virus. This recommendation is not intended to supersede the advice of local public health officials.
UPDATE March 15, 2020
The City of Troup remains open and all city departments are functioning as normal during this time of concern. We ask that everyone practice safe “social distancing”.
For your health and the health of city employees, we ask that anyone having fever, a cough, or shortness of breath avoid coming into city hall and that you seek medical advice.
We encourage as many as possible to pay their water utility bill online or by telephone. The link to pay online is: https://www.govpaynow.com/gps/user/plc/6597. To pay by telephone, dial 903.842.3128 and select 10, 11, or 15.
If you wish to pay in person, and are paying by check, we ask you to place your payment in the outside collection box. If you would like a receipt, we can mail or email you one if you call us at 903.842.3128 and select 10, 11, or 15 or simply indicate with a note on your payment that you would like a receipt and how you would like it sent to you.
If you are paying in cash, please try to have the correct change. If you must come inside to pay, and observe someone already at the customer service window inside city hall, please remain outside or in your vehicle until that person exits city hall.
Those wishing to pay their City of Troup Municipal Court fines may also do that online at: https://www.govpaynow.com/gps/user/plc/6598. To pay by telephone dial 903.842.3128 and select 10 or 11.
The City of Troup apologizes for the inconvenience as we all work together to safely get through this challenging time.
UPDATE March 13, 2020
Governor Abbott Holds Press Conference On Coronavirus, Declares State Of Disaster For All Texas Counties
UPATE March 13, 2020
The Northeast Texas Public Health District has received confirmation of three positive cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Tyler area.
All three of the confirmed patients have a recent travel history outside of the United States and their test results were confirmed by the Public Health Lab of East Texas (PHLET).
“All proper notification processes are being followed with our state and local officials and that proper procedures are being followed on the testing of cases,” said Dr. Jeff Levin, Smith County Health Authority.
“None of these individuals contracted COVID-19 while in East Texas and all three individuals are in isolation from the general population,” says George Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of NET Health. “The public has a responsibility to follow recommendations from health officials, such as home quarantine.”
Everyone in East Texas should remember to take the same measures that are recommended to prevent the spread of the flu and all respiratory viruses.
Prevention of COVID-19
There is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID‑19. The best way to prevent infection is to take steps to avoid exposure to this virus, which are similar to the steps you take to avoid the flu.
DSHS recommends these everyday actions to help prevent the spread of any respiratory virus, including COVID‑19:
- Wash hands often for 20 seconds and encourage others to do the same.
- If no soap and water are available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue away.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Disinfect surfaces, buttons, handles, knobs, and other places touched often.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
DSHS also recommends that you start practicing social distancing. Social distancing involves staying away from other people to avoid catching or spreading illness. It’s a fancy term for avoiding crowds and minimizing physical contact. This could mean avoiding concerts or weddings, skipping the handshake, and/or staying at least six feet away from others.
Symptoms of COVID-19
Patients with COVID‑19 have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness. Symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
What to Do If You Are Sick
Symptoms of COVID‑19 may show up 2‑14 days after exposure. The steps you should take if you think you are sick with COVID‑19 depend on whether you have a higher risk of developing severe illness.
High-Risk Individuals:
- People 65 years or older, and/or people with medical issues, like heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, or a weakened immune system, are at a higher risk for getting very sick from COVID‑19.
- If you are a high-risk individual and you develop fever or symptoms, call your doctor.
- If you are not sick enough to be hospitalized, you can recover at home. Follow your doctor’s instructions and refer to CDC recommendations for how to take care of yourself at home.
General Population:
- If you are in generally good health and have mild symptoms, stay home and take care of yourself like you would for a cold or the flu.
- If symptoms worsen, call your doctor.
How COVID-19 Spreads
Current understanding about how the virus that causes COVID‑19 spreads is largely based on what is known about similar coronaviruses.
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person:
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- Via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
People are thought to be most contagious when they are most symptomatic (the sickest). Some spread might be possible before people show symptoms; there have been reports of this with this new coronavirus, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
Download the Stop the Spread of Germs flyer.
Read the latest information from the CDC on how COVID‑19 is spread.