This week, the Houston Health Department is reporting increased COVID-19 transmission and wastewater load. Our very own Dr. Peter Hotez joined FOX 26 Houston to discuss the uptick in cases and caution viewers to mask voluntarily in crowds – just like our Marketing team members who donned pink masks and attire to watch Barbie in theatres!
“The numbers are still generally good, but they are going up,” said Dr. Hotez. COVID-19 hospital admissions in the U.S. increased by 10% week-over-week, according to new CDC data.
“We still have to be cautious and recognize there’s a lot of COVID-19 transmission out there…if you’re under vaccinated or have risk factors, you probably want to wear a mask in any crowded indoor area,” added Dr. Hotez. Click here to watch the full segment.
Texas Children’s de-escalated masking guidelines in April 2023, but we continue to remain vigilant by monitoring these numbers and making adjustments as needed. Whether you are traveling for vacation this summer or buying tickets for a Barbie-Oppenheimer double feature, we want to encourage Texas Children’s team members to help stop the spread and mask voluntarily as added protection for themselves.
Masking is strongly encouraged for those with high-risk conditions and required for workforce members who have a COVID-19 or Flu vaccine exemption. Those experiencing respiratory symptoms should not come to work.
Thank you to our Barbies and Kens for your ongoing commitment to staying healthy and safe. Click here to see our current masking guidelines, and please visit our COVID Command website for past communications.