COVID-19 Testing in Comal County Expected to Rise Dramatically

Comal County Public Health Director Cheryl Fraser told Commissioners Court on Thursday, March 19 that 25 people have been tested for COVID-19 but that number will rise dramatically as private labs come online and testing availability increases.

As of Friday, March 20, two residents have tested positive for novel coronavirus.

“At this point testing is limited and basically done for information purposes,” she said. “There is no treatment for COVID-19. So the result of the patient’s test does not change their treatment. I think that might be the biggest misconception out there, and that’s why we’re advising people if they’re symptomatic to please, you know, stay home and not spread it because the treatment does not change.”

Fraser said her office and a special hotline set up by the county have received more than 100 calls per day, with that number peaking at 150 on Wednesday.

She urged anyone who has COVID-19 symptoms, has been exposed to someone with COVID-19, or who has traveled where positive cases have been identified to avoid visiting doctors’ offices, urgent care or the emergency room.

“Please call ahead first,” she said. “We want to reserve our healthcare resources for people who require emergency medical treatment and hospitalization.”

County Judge Sherman Krause said the county has worked closely with the City of New Braunfels to avoid duplicating efforts in managing the outbreak and thanked Fraser and her staff as well as Public Information Officer Paul Anthony for their efforts.

Jen Crownover, Pct. 4 commissioner added that “it’s good to see this in action.

“So much thought has gone into what to do during these times.”

Residents with questions about COVID-19 are asked to call the county’s hotline at 830-221-1120 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.