March 10, 2020      5:37 PM

Texas House Public Health holds hearing on coronavirus preparedness

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Texas House Public Health Committee Chair Senfronia Thompson wanted to know one thing at the outset of today’s hearing on the state’s readiness for the coronavirus: “I brought rubbing alcohol to the hearing today for my hands,” she said. “Some people think you can use vodka. What is better? The rubbing alcohol or the vodka?”

“The rubbing alcohol,” Department of State Health Services Commissioner Dr. John Hellerstedt said, clearing up the rumor that a 40 proof vodka will work just as well as a rubbing alcohol.

The exchange was a lighter moment during the nearly five-hour hearing as members heard from representatives from the state, hospitals, medical schools, trade groups and the cities of Houston and San Antonio.

By James Russell

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