We're doing our best to deliver a considered, measured response to the threat posed by the novel coronavirus.
Right now, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by what one might term “viral” news content. Part of the challenge we face is parsing panic from a considered and measured response to what health officials continue to see as an ongoing, increasing threat posed by the novel coronavirus. Our producers have been working hard to offer balanced coverage of this story, including a reflection on what it means to “self-quarantine” (as Sen. Ted Cruz chose to do starting last weekend) and a focused look at who is most at risk. But other stories continue to shape our world – from post-recession ripple effects in our housing market, to trouble with a space tech program at one state college. Yes, Texas: life goes on. We invite you to catch up with our picks of the week below, and let us know what stories you'd like to hear more about. In the meantime, stay safe (make sure and wash those hands !) and until next Wednesday, we'll see you on the radio.
- David Brown

How To Self-Quarantine If You’re At Risk For COVID-19


The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 14 days of quarantine at home, which is the period during which symptoms of COVID-19 begin to show.
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Spread Of Coronavirus In Texas Won’t Happen Overnight, But Be Mindful


Baylor College of Medicine's Dr. Peter Hotez says it’s surprisingly hard to get funding for COVID-19 vaccines in development. He’s also particularly concerned about adults over age 60, health care workers and first responders.
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Texas’ Housing Stock Never Fully Recovered From The Great Recession


Texas gained about 130,000 new single-family homes last year. That’s compared to before the recession, when it was about 170,000.
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Celebrated Astronaut Breaks With UTEP Over Bungled Contract


Danny Olivas blew the whistle on his El Paso alma mater after the university mishandled payments on a contract for the space safety program he led.
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  • Here’s How Healthcare Professionals In West Texas Are Preparing For Coronavirus (Marfa Public Radio)
  • How To Help Local Businesses, Workers And Artists Affected By SXSW's Cancellation (KUT)
  • At Houston’s Port, Fewer Ships From Asia Due To Coronavirus (Houston Public Media)
  • Veterans Say It's Not Too Soon To Build A National Memorial For The Afghanistan And Iraq Wars (The American Homefront Project)
Back in the late ‘90s, when I was a young reporter, I stumbled upon the book “The Hot Zone : The Terrifying True Story of the Origins of the Ebola Virus.” From there I became hooked on infectious diseases – a topic that now looms over my science and medicine beat at Texas Public Radio in San Antonio. It’s hard not to anthropomorphize viruses in particular, because they seem to have motivations and goals. Of course, they don’t, but it’s fascinating to me how something so small can do so much damage as it seeks to replicate. At their worst, viruses not only damage the human body, but all of the systems surrounding it – social, economic and more. We don’t yet know as much about the new coronavirus or the disease it causes, COVID-19, as we will in even a couple of weeks. We hope and have reason to believe the damage it causes can be mitigated. I take very seriously my responsibility to get our listeners all the information they need to safely navigate this evolving situation, and to deliver it clearly without embellishment. I believe accurate information is the antidote to panic – and that’s what I hope to keep bringing you on the Texas Standard.
- Bonnie Petrie
@KBonniePetrie
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