Krause Signs Mask Order, Warns of Alarming Rise of COVID-19 Cases in Comal County

Citing an alarming rise in COVID-19 cases, Comal County Judge Sherman Krause today signed an “unwelcome” order requiring all businesses in the county to develop safety plans that include wearing of face coverings for all employees and customers in their establishments.

The order takes effect immediately and expires on July 15. Enforcement begins on Friday. The fine for non-compliance is $1,000.

“The alarming rise in cases across the county, from New Braunfels to Bulverde to the south side of Canyon Lake, and the stress it has put on our local health care system has made this unwelcome step necessary to protect the lives and public health of Comal County residents,” Krause said. “Face coverings and social distancing are vitally important to slowing the spread of coronavirus and protecting the most vulnerable in our community.”

Since the beginning of last week, the south side of Canyon Lake has seen cases spike in COVID-19 cases from 15 to 40. Case numbers in New Braunfels rose from 314 to 573 while cases in Bulverde grew from 58 to 125.

The county’s total number of confirmed and probable cases has risen from 240 on June 16 to 778 today, and the rate of tests coming back positive has more than doubled in that time, from 5.66 percent to 12.17 percent, despite an increase in testing.

Active cases have spiked from 97 on June 16 to 496 today, and hospitalizations have also increased, from six on June 16 to 35 today. Comal County today also reported its eighth death since the pandemic began.

The order was issued as part of the ongoing public health emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic described in the county’s disaster declaration, issued March 18 and extended by Commissioners Court on March 24. The declaration remains in effect until rescinded by Commissioners Court.