The Hays County Local Health Department reports 168 new lab-confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 71 recoveries since Dec. 5, bringing the total number of cases in the county to 7,812, total active cases to 882 and recoveries to 71. The county reports the total active cases in the past 21 days is 1,236.

San Marcos, Kyle and Buda have 71, 349 and 241 active cases, respectively.

According to Epidemiologist Eric Schneider, the total number of received negative tests in the county is now 55,703. The total number of hospitalizations is 449 and total current hospitalizations is 11 after four people were hospitalized and eight were discharged. The total number of fatalities in the county is 106.

The University Star will continue to provide COVID-19 updates as any additional information is released.

Individuals concerned about possible exposure to COVID-19 are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or the Hays County Local Health Department at 512.393.5520. For additional information about COVID-19, visit the Texas Department of State Health Services or the Centers for Disease Control website.

The University Star’s COVID-19 coverage can be found here.