Congressman Gonzalez Statement on Travel and Testing for Coronavirus

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) issued a statement to urge constituents of the 15th District of Texas to reconsider travel and offer guidance on testing:

"As your Member of Congress, one of my top priorities is to keep you informed on critical issues such as the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Everyone, especially individuals who are at higher risk of contracting the virus, should reconsider non-essential travel.

People who are higher risk of catching the virus include: older adults above the age of 60 and individuals who have chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease. If a COVID-19 outbreak were to happen in our community it could last for an unknown period of time. If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 due to your age or a serious long-term health problem, it especially important for you to take actions to reduce your risk of contracting the novel coronavirus.

Across the nation, organizations and educational institutions are taking steps to mitigate the spread of the disease. I urge schools in our district to reevaluate spring break trips, senior trips, and any travel that is non-essential.

If you feel as though you are ill, please call your primary care physician first to talk through your symptoms and determine a plan of action. Testing for COVID-19 is now available in Harlingen through the Texas Department of State Health Services. All tests through the Harlingen lab must be coordinated with local health departments. Private testing is available in the Rio Grande Valley through Quest Labs in Edinburg. Quest is working in coordination with the Hidalgo County Health Department as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

To date, there are no reported cases of COVID-19 in the Rio Grande Valley, deep South Texas or the 15th District of Texas.

Please continue to help us with coronavirus awareness and prevention efforts by checking on elderly relatives or those who are particularly vulnerable due to other medical conditions, and by sharing up-to-date, verified information and public health advisories. It is vital that the public practice good hygiene by washing your hands, staying home if sick, and avoiding others who may be ill."