El Paso officials cite ‘dramatic increase’ in virus cases for saying ‘no’ to Halloween trick-or-treating

EL PASO, Texas -- El Paso Mayor Dee Margo cited a "dramatic increase" in new Covid-19 cases in recent days at a briefing on the Covid-19 situation Thursday afternoon.

As a result, City-County Health Authority Dr. Hector Ocaranza said in accordance with Centers for Disease Control guidelines that "we should not do Halloween" and traditional trick-or-treating would not be allowed this year.

He said children can still dress up in costumes and celebrate without going door-to-door.

"We don't want door-to-door trick-or-treating, period!" Margo proclaimed, adding that house parties for Halloween were not allowed either.

Margo also noted that El Paso hospitals are seeing increases in patients with coronavirus illness - and he's worried about exceeding the 15% threshold set by the governor that could trigger further closures. Margo said if that happens, it would be a devastating blow to the local economy.

Ocaranza said he would be meeting with El Paso area school districts on Friday to discuss thresholds for decisions on school closings due virus outbreaks. He also urged caution when it comes to holding and attending high school athletic events.

One re-opening that will soon occur, Margo said, is that of the El Paso Zoo. He said it would provide an opportunity for outdoor activity with masks and social distancing also enforced.

You can watch the entire briefing by city and county leaders in the video player below.