Laredo Times

With concerns over the novel coronavirus spreading as quickly as the virus itself, uncertainty about international bridges have become commonplace. 

In a video release on KGNS on March 16, U.S. Customer and Border Protection addressed the rumors, saying points of entry nationwide are fully operational and rumors of any of them being closed at this time due to coronavirus are false.

The video reiterates President Donald Trump’s mandate that those who have traveled through certain countries where the virus had already spread rapidly — China, Iran or the Schengen area in Europe — 14 days prior or who were showing symptoms of illness would be subject to additional screening to ensure that they were not bringing the virus into the country. 

Bridges are open for essential travel — which includes work, education and health care — though certain changes have more recently taken place regarding non-essential travel, such as tourism or recreation.

In an article by Rio Grande Guardian, border leaders have acknowledged the decision to close the borders for non-essential purposes, stating that it is important that the border plays its part in protecting human life and the economy as a whole. 

According to the Guardian, Laredo Mayor Pete Saenz said he expects everyone’s cooperation in this effort. 

“I ask everyone to please fully cooperate with the mandatory social distancing and best hygiene guidelines as have been promulgated by the City of Laredo,” Saenz said. “Together, we will kill and defeat this silent enemy by simply starving it.”