RIO GRANDE CITY – No known infections of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Rio Grande Valley, but health officials in Starr County say it’s time to prepare.

Dr. Jose Vasquez, with Starr County Health Authority, spoke with residents in a meeting Wednesday describing the rate at which the virus is spreading – calling it virulent.

The doctor wanted to explain it’s just a matter of time and numbers until COVID-19 cases reach the Valley. A strong enough message, he hopes, will get to local organizations and officials, so they can start planning for to manage it.

Watch the video above for the full report.