At least 159 Beaumont-area residents tested positive for COVID-19 Aug. 10, according to data from the city's public health department, while Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) data shows that Jefferson County has confirmed 924 cases in the past week.
That number includes 149 Beaumont residents, as well as three from China, three from Fannett, three from Hamshire and one from Cheek. To date, Beaumont has confirmed 11,059 positive COVID-19 cases and fully vaccinated 84,976 residents over the age of 12, which amounts to approximately 41%.
At the city council's regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday, Aug. 10, members asked unvaccinated residents to reconsider their stance, and Beaumont Public Health Director Kenneth Coleman said the city's hospitals are without empty beds due to the influx of COVID-positive patients.
Similarly imploring unvaccinated county residents to get the free jabs, Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick asked those who are hesitant to reconsider and seek advice from medical professionals, rather than listen to advice from social media.
Free vaccination appointments are available at a number of local pharmacies, health clinics and hospitals. Interested residents can make appointments by calling Baptist Hospital, Beaumont EMS, the Beaumont Public Health Department, as well as at major pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, Sam’s Club or HEB.