Greg Abbott's positive test for Covid-19 has punctuated messaging from health officials that Texans need to remain vigilant during the pandemic. The state's Department of State Health Services said Texas is in "one of its worst fights" it has faced with Covid-19, and mortuary trailers were requested this month as a preparatory maneuver. ICU beds are running low, and health care employees are working frantically to find available space for those in need. Chief Nursing Officer Joycesarah McCabe told CNN affiliate KWTX she calls hospitals throughout Texas, looking for availability. A third of children ages 12-17 in the state are now fully vaccinated , the department said.

Source: CNN August 19, 2021 09:56 UTC