Texas Health and Human Services Increasing Guidelines for Child Care Operations Amid Coronavirus Outbreak

AUSTIN (WBAP/KLIF News) – Changes are being made from the state level to the almost 17,000 child care operations across Texas in an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Texas Health and Human Service issued new guidelines, including new screening requirements for staff and visitors, this week in its effort to protect children and their families.

“Protecting the health and safety of children in the settings we regulate in paramount,” said David Kostroun, HHS Deputy Executive Commissioner of Regulatory Services.

THHS said the new requirements are in accordance with state law, federal guidance and Governor Greg Abbott’s disaster declaration.

Prohibit any person except the following from accessing an operation: operation staff; persons with legal authority to enter, including law enforcement officers, HHSC Child Care Licensing staff, and Department of Family and Protective Services staff; professionals providing services to children; children enrolled at the operation; and parents or legal guardians who have children enrolled and present at the operation.
Require pickup and drop-off of children outside of the operation, unless its determined that there is a legitimate need for the parent to enter an operation.
Before allowing entry into the operation, screen all individuals listed above, including taking the temperature of each person upon arrival at the operation each day, and deny entry to any person who meets any of the following criteria: A temperature of 100.4°F or above;
Signs or symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as a cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, and low-grade fever;
In the previous 14 days has had contact with someone with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19; is under investigation for COVID-19; or is ill with a respiratory illness; or
In the previous 14 days has traveled internationally to countries with widespread, sustained community transmission.
Ensure that each child is provided individual meals and snacks. Do not serve family style meals.

The department is encouraging child care providers to contact the Child Care Licensing team at [email protected].

Providers and parents can get more information by clicking on the HHS COVID-19 page here.