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ChambersWARNS

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1. What is ChambersWARNS?

ChambersWarns is our new, state-of-the-art mass notification and warning system designed to warn residents about emergencies and other important community news in jurisdictions throughout Chambers County, Texas.

2. Why should I sign up for Alert notifications?

ChambersWARNS enables County emergency officials to provide critical information directly to you as emergencies happen. The alerts provide information on the nature of the emergency, where to go, what to do, and how to stay informed through text messages, email, cell phones, home phones, or work phones. A text message is the fastest way to receive notifications.

3. What types of notifications will I receive?

Chambers County Emergency Management and Chambers County Health Department will use ChambersWARNS to notify residents about severe weather threats, Haz Mat threats, boil water notices, and other critical emergency information. We can, with your approval, also send information about interstate closures, transportation incidents, utility outages, government closings, and other important community news.

4. What are some of the features of ChambersWARNS?

ChambersWARNS is user customizable and allows you to choose what kind of notifications you want to receive, how you want to receive them and the location you want to receive them for.

5. What types of important emergency and disaster alerts will I receive?

Chambers County Emergency Management and Chambers County Public Health will use ChambersWARNS to send emergency notifications when there are imminent threats to life, health and safety for residents in Chambers County.

6. Who sends alerts?

Chambers County Emergency Management, Chambers County 9-1-1 Dispatch and Chambers County Public Health Department are the only agencies authorized to issue alerts. Alerts may go out to everyone with an account or to select groups of individuals depending on the type of alerts to which they subscribed or geographic area impacted.

7. Who can register for ChambersWARNS?

Anyone can register for ChambersWARNS. Whether you live, work, travel through, or have family/friends in Chambers County the service is available to you. However, only addresses and contact information you provide within Chambers County will receive an alert from the system. Individuals and businesses that have their information available in the White and yellow pages are already included in the system and will receive emergency notifications through landlines only.

8. Will I still get emergency notifications if I don't sign up?

Individuals and businesses that are in the white and yellow pages have automatically been added into the system and will receive emergency notifications through landline only. If you are currently listed in the white or yellow pages and would like to customize your notifications, you must register for ChambersWARNS. Cellular telephones are not included and federal law prohibits the county from accessing your cell phone without your permission: You will not receive notifications on your cell phone or email if you don't register.

9. What if I previously provided my information to a Chambers County notification system?

If you previously provided your information to a Chambers County notification system, you still need to register in ChambersWARNS to ensure you receive emergency notifications and to control your locations and notification delivery methods. ChambersWarns encourages you to update your contact information yearly or anytime it changes.

10. Why should I provide an address?

In order to take advantage of the features of the ChambersWARNS, individuals should enter a valid address which allows us to target information specific to a geographic location. Some emergency alerts, such as law enforcement alerts or Haz Mat Warnings, are only sent to account holders with addresses listed near the event location.

11. What if I do not want to enter my home address?

A valid address in Chambers County is required. If you do not enter your home address, you will not get alerts or warning for your neighborhood. In order to effectively provide you with timely warnings or alerts, we need the same residence information that is on your Texas Driver's License. Your personal information is not stored locally on any computer and will never be accessed or shared by anyone.

12. Will my contact information be shared with others?

No. The information that you provide for ChambersWARNS will only be used for notification purposes. We will not sell or provide your information to any vendor or anyone else.

13. How will my information be secured?

ChambersWARNS' vendor, SwiftReach, complies with industry standards and best practices for system administration, security policies, and application development. To make our system the most secure, SwiftReach complies with FISMA security guidelines set forth by the National Institute of Standards in Technology (NIST). In addition, Chambers County required, by contract, that SwiftReach agree not to share, sell, rent, give, or otherwise transfer ANY information from Chambers County to anyone else.

14. What if my phone number(s) or email address(es) change?

ChambersWARNS is only as good as the information you provide. Once you have registered to receive notifications, it is important that you keep your profile current. If your contact information changes, please remember to update the information in your profile.

15. What types of devices are compatible with ChambersWARNS?

Text messaging (SMS network), email accounts, cellphones, digital pagers, and landlines are compatible with ChambersWARNS. In addition, devices that are Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) and federal Emergency Alert System (EAS) compatible like televisions, Weather Alert Radios, and other devices will also receive ChambersWARNS messages. Standard text message charges may apply from your mobile carrier, depending on your text message plan. If you are unsure about text messaging on your cell phone, please contact your provider.

16. What number will show up when you send me a text message? What is the phone number and email address that notifications will come from?

When you receive text messages from ChambersWARNS, they will be sent from. We encourage you to add this text number to your mobile phone contacts to easily identify text messages that are alerts. When you receive a text from ChambersWarns, the number will display 995-38. (if you add that as a contact under ChambersWARNS in your phone's contact list, that's what will show up thereafter). The Phone Number will show up as 409-794-4532 Beaumont, Texas. (if you add that as a contact under ChambersWARNS in your phone's contact list, that's what will show up thereafter). In addition, email notifications will come from Chambers County OEM. We encourage you to add this to your address book or safe list to ensure it does not get marked as SPAM by your email provider. All web browsers are supported.

• Email OEM

17. Who do I contact if I have problems, questions, or comments?

We encourage you to please read the FAQ and Help and Answers in their entirety first. If you still need assistance please Email OEM.

18. How will I receive weather alerts?

Severe weather alerts are automatically issued by the National Weather Service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, for the weather events you choose.

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County Clerk

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1. Are marriage licenses restricted to residents only?

No.

2. How do I transfer property from one owner to another?

Generally, you should contact an attorney or a title company to prepare the type of document needed. Some forms are available in form books at the library or at an office supply store. After the document is prepared, if it is a recordable document (which means it meets the recording standards and is properly signed and notarized) you may bring or mail the document to the County Clerk's Office to be recorded in Official Public Records. There is a fee to record your document. Visit the Records page for detailed fee information.

3. I can’t get my family member to sign a deed over to me, what do I do?

Contact an attorney for legal advice.

4. Can the Clerk's office explain a document I received from my mortgage company?

The County Clerk's Office cannot explain what a document does from a legal standpoint. Our office only handles the recording of documents in Official Public Records. We cannot provide legal advice. You may wish to contact your mortgage company or your attorney.

5. How do I find out who owns a property located in Chambers County?

Contact the Chambers County Tax Office at 409-267-2763 or the Chambers County Appraisal District at 409-267-3795 or visit the Chambers County Appraisal District website.

6. Where can I obtain a copy of my deed?

If your deed has been recorded in the Office of the County Clerk, you may obtain a certified copy of your deed, which will stand as the original. Otherwise, you may wish to contact an attorney for legal advice.

7. Where can I obtain divorce records?

Divorce is handled through the District Clerk's Office. Visit their page for contact information.

8. Where can I inquire about child support issues?

Divorce is handled through the District Clerk's Office. Visit their page for contact information.

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COVID-19

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1. What is novel coronavirus?

A novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. The virus-causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, such as the common cold.

A diagnosis with coronavirus 229E, NL63, OC43, or HKU1 is not the same as a COVID-19 diagnosis. Patients with COVID-19 will be evaluated and cared for differently than patients with a common coronavirus diagnosis.

2. What is the source of the virus?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some cause illness in people, and others, such as canine and feline coronaviruses, only infect animals. Rarely, animal coronaviruses that infect animals have emerged to infect people and can spread between people. This is suspected to have occurred for the virus that causes COVID-19. Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) are two other examples of coronaviruses that originated from animals and then spread to people. More information about the source and spread of COVID-19 is available on the Situation Summary: Source and Spread of the Virus.

3. How does the virus spread?

This virus was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. The first infections were linked to a live animal market, but the virus is now spreading from person to person. It's important to note that person-to-person spread can happen on a continuum. Some viruses are highly contagious (like measles), while other viruses are less so.

The virus that causes COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community ("community spread") in some affected geographic areas. Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.

Learn what is known about the spread of newly emerged coronaviruses.

4. Can someone who has had COVID-19 spread the illness to others?

The virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading from person to person. Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others. That is why CDC recommends that these patients be isolated either in the hospital or at home (depending on how sick they are) until they are better and no longer pose a risk of infecting others.

How long someone is actively sick can vary so the decision on when to release someone from isolation is made on a case-by-case basis in consultation with doctors, infection prevention and control experts, and public health officials and involves considering specifics of each situation including disease severity, illness signs and symptoms, and results of laboratory testing for that patient.

Current CDC guidance for when it is OK to release someone from isolation is made on a case-by-case basis and includes meeting all of the following requirements:

• The patient is free from fever without the use of fever-reducing medications.
• The patient is no longer showing symptoms, including cough.
• The patient has tested negative on at least two consecutive respiratory specimens collected at least 24 hours apart.

Someone who has been released from isolation is not considered to pose a risk of infection to others.

5. Can someone who has been quarantined for COVID-19 spread the illness to others?

Quarantine means separating a person or group of people who have been exposed to a contagious disease but have not developed illness (symptoms) from others who have not been exposed, in order to prevent the possible spread of that disease. Quarantine is usually established for the incubation period of the communicable disease, which is the span of time during which people have developed illness after exposure. For COVID-19, the period of quarantine is 14 days from the last date of exposure, because 14 days is the longest incubation period seen for similar coronaviruses. Someone who has been released from COVID-19 quarantine is not considered a risk for spreading the virus to others because they have not developed illness during the incubation period.

6. What is community spread?

Community spread means people have been infected with the virus in an area, including some who are not sure how or where they became infected.

7. How can I help protect myself?

Visit the COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment page to learn about how to protect yourself from respiratory illnesses, like COVID-19.

8. What should I do if I had close contact with someone who has COVID-19?

There is information for people who have had close contact with a person confirmed to have, or being evaluated for, COVID-19 available online.

9. Who is at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19?

Early information out of China, where COVID-19 first started, shows that some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness including older adults, and people who have serious chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease.

10. What should people at higher risk of serious illness with COVID-19 do?

If you are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, you should: stock up on supplies; take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others; when you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick; limit close contact and wash your hands often; and avoid crowds, cruise travel, and non-essential travel. If there is an outbreak in your community, stay home as much as possible. Watch for symptoms and emergency signs. Watch for symptoms and emergency signs. If you get sick, stay home and call your doctor. More information on how to prepare, what to do if you get sick, and how communities and caregivers can support those at higher risk is available on People at Risk for Serious Illness from COVID-19.

11. What should people at higher risk of serious illness with COVID-19 do?

CDC does not recommend that people who are well wearing a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. You should only wear a mask if a healthcare professional recommends it. A facemask should be used by people who have COVID-19 and are showing symptoms. This is to protect others from the risk of getting infected. The use of facemasks also is crucial for health workers and other people who are taking care of someone infected with COVID-19 in close settings (at home or in a healthcare facility).

12. What are the symptoms and complications that COVID-19 can cause?

Current symptoms reported for patients with COVID-19 have included mild to severe respiratory illness with fever1, cough, and difficulty breathing. Read about COVID-19 Symptoms.

13. Should I be tested for COVID-19?

If you develop symptoms such as fever, cough, and/or difficulty breathing, have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19, or have recently traveled from an area with the ongoing spread of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider. Older patients and individuals who have severe underlying medical conditions or are immunocompromised should contact their healthcare provider early, even if their illness is mild. If you have severe symptoms, such as persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips of face, contact your healthcare provider or emergency room and seek care immediately. Your doctor will determine if you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and whether you should be tested.

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District Clerk

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1. Which passport type should I choose?

You may purchase either a passport book or a card, or both. District Clerk Patti Henry recommends you purchase both. It is good to keep the book in the safe of your cruise ship or hotel when leaving the country.  You carry your card with you for proof of citizenship. That way, if your wallet or purse is stolen you still have your book to get back into the country. If you take a cruise and you have an emergency and have to fly back, you cannot fly without the book.

2. What documentation is required to apply for a passport?

• Completed Form DS-11.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship.
• A physical, government-issued photo identification document (ID).
• Photo to include with your application (can be provided by District Clerk's Office for a $10.00 fee).

3. What should I do if I don't have my birth certificate?

If you were born in Chambers County and you do not have your birth certificate you can purchase one in the County Clerk’s office located on the first floor of the courthouse.

If you were not born in Chambers County, you will need to contact your birth state or territory's vital records office. More information can be found on the CDC's website.

4. What are the passport photo requirements?

• Color photo, taken in last 6 months.
• Use a clear image of your face. Do not use filters.
• Have someone else take your photo. No selfies.
• Take off your eyeglasses for your photo.
• No hats, shirts with logos, or white shirts.
• Use a white or off-white background without shadows, texture, or lines.

For more information, visit the U.S. Department of State's passport photo guidlines page.

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Emergency Preparedness & Response

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1. Do I really need vaccines?

All adults need vaccines to help protect against serious diseases that can result in severe illness, missed work, medical bills and an inability to care for their families. Adults may not have received all their vaccines during childhood. Some childhood vaccines do not offer protection into adulthood and a booster may be needed. Some vaccines are recommended based on age, job, lifestyle, or health condition. Getting vaccinated lowers the risk of getting sick and lowers the chance of spreading a serious disease to others including those that are most vulnerable to severe illness such as infants, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems.

2. How well do adult vaccines work?

Vaccines work with the body's natural defenses to reduce the chances of getting certain diseases and suffering from complications. The amount of protection varies by vaccine and other factors such as age and health but immunizations are the best defense against many serious, sometimes deadly, diseases. The greatest risk of vaccine-preventable diseases occurs among those that are not vaccinated.

3. Are adult vaccines safe?

Vaccines are one of the safest ways to protect health. Vaccines go through years of testing before they are licensed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Once licensed, research is reviewed by experts to make recommendations on whom to vaccinate. Even after licensure, the CDC and FDA continue to monitor vaccine safety. Vaccines can be received even if individuals are taking prescription medicines. However, live vaccines which include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) and varicella (chickenpox) may not be administered to those who have a suppressed immune system.

4. What are the possible risk?

Side effects are usually minor, such as feeling sore where the vaccine was administered or having a slight fever. These go away within a few days. Some individuals may have an allergic reaction to a vaccine but serious or long-term effects are rare.

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Jury Services

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1. Is jury service mandatory?

Yes.  The United States Constitution and the Texas State Constitution guarantee the right to trial by jury.  State law obligates all qualified residents to serve as a juror. 

In addition, Texas Government Code, Section 62.0141, Section 62.111, and Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 19A.054 all state that a person shall be fined not less than $100 nor more than $500 if the person fails to attend court in obedience to a summons without reasonable excuse or files a false claim of exemption from jury service.

2. How was I selected?

You were selected at random through the electronic jury system used by the Chambers County Jury Services department from a list provided to us by the Texas Secretary of State.  This list is composed of those holding a valid driver’s license, personal ID card/certificate, and or voter registration in Chambers County Texas.

3. How can I claim an exemption or disqualification from jury service?

If you qualify to claim an exemption or disqualification from jury service then you will be excused and will not have to appear on your summons date.  In order to claim either, log onto eResponse and complete the questions.  Based on your answers the system will determine if you qualify for either and will inform you that the exemption/disqualification has been approved.  No further action will be necessary from you.

4. How can I postpone (defer) my jury service?

Once you have completed the questionnaire in eResponse you may log back into the system and request a deferral.  The jury service coordinator will assist you from that point on.

5. Can my employer prevent me from serving as a juror?

No.  State law prohibits an employer from discriminating against an employee for taking time off to serve as a juror. 

Note to employers.  Pursuant to Civil Practice and Remedies Code, Section 122.001 Juror’s Right to Reemployment; Notice of Intent to Return.

• A private employer may not terminate the employment of a permanent employee because an employee serves as a juror.
• An employee whose employment is terminated in violation of this section is entitled to return to the same employment that the employee held when summoned for jury service if the employee, as soon as practical after release from jury service, gives the employer actual notice that the employee intends to return.

6. Does my employer have to pay me while I serve on jury duty?

No.  State law does not require employers to compensate their employees while on jury service.  Many employers, however, do support the jury system.  Please check with your employer regarding your company’s policy.

7. What is acceptable attire for jury service?

“Business casual” is considered the appropriate way to dress for jury service.  Nice jeans are also allowed.  Shorts, uniforms, tank tops, flip flops, holes in any clothing is not allowed.  Hats can be worn but will be required to be removed in the courtroom.

8. What if I have a disability, medical/mental health issue that prevents me from attending?

Chambers County will try to accommodate anyone with a disability or medical/mental health issue, however, a juror may also choose to be excused because of a disability or medical/mental health issue.  If this is the case, a juror must present a Juror Disability & Medical/Mental Certification Form (PDF) to their physician to be completed and returned to the jury service coordinator within 15 days of their notification for service.  Otherwise, the juror’s name will be placed back in the jury pool for summons.

Please complete the eResponse questionnaire and indicate you will be completing this form so we can place your status in “documentation pending”.  You can deliver this form by mail, email Jury Service, or fax at 409-267-8209.

9. Can I be excused due to work related reasons?

No.  You cannot be excused for work related or economic reasons.  However, once you are in the voire dire process within a judge’s courtroom you can make your request known to the attorneys and they will make a final decision.

10. What if I have a planned vacation on the date I am to appear for jury duty?

Just call the office ahead of time, any one of my trained deputies can discuss the possibility of postponing your jury service for up to 60 days to accommodate your schedule.

11. When will I receive payment for my jury service?

Payment for jury service is processed in approximately 4 to 6 weeks. All payments are mailed by the Chambers County Treasurer's Office.

12. I intended to donate my jury pay but received a check. How can I donate?

Contact the Jury Services department:

P.O. Drawer NN
Anahuac, Texas 77514
Email Jury Service
Phone: 409-267-2432

13. I received my check, but the amount is incorrect. Who do I contact?

Contact the Jury Services department:

P.O. Drawer NN
Anahuac, Texas 77514
Email Jury Service
Phone: 409-267-2432

14. I never received my jury check. How do I get a replacement?

Contact the Jury Services department:

P.O. Drawer NN
Anahuac, Texas 77514
Email Jury Service
Phone: 409-267-2432

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Justices of the Peace - Debt & Small Claims

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1. What can I sue for in Justice Court?

You can sue for most civil matters in which the amount in controversy is not more than $20,000, exclusive of interest. You cannot ask for a divorce in Justice Court, nor can you sue for slander or defamation, or to recover title to land, or enforce a lien on land. You may sue to recover a specific article of property if the value of the property is less than $20,000. The Justice Court is not able to require another party to do or refrain from doing any act. Know the value of your claim. If you are represented by an attorney, you may be able to recover attorney's fees, but the total amount of your claim, exclusive of interest, may not exceed $20,000.

2. How much does it costs to file a lawsuit in Justice Court?

The Justice Court must collect fees for filing a Petition in the Justice Court. A summary of the current costs can be found above in "Justice Court Fees".

3. What information do I need to file against a business?

You will need to determine who owns the business. Is it a corporation, a partnership, or a sole proprietorship? It is your responsibility to make sure that you are suing the proper party and that you have named an appropriate person as an agent for the service of the process.

If the business is a corporation, you will need the correct name of the corporation, and the name and address of the corporation's registered agent, or its president or vice president.

If the business is a partnership, you will need the name and address of at least one of the partners.

If the business is a sole proprietorship, you will need the name and address of the owner of the business.

Business ownership may be determined from the Chambers County Clerk's Assumed Name Records.

Information about corporate entities may be obtained from the Corporation Division of the Office of the Secretary of State at 512-463-5555, or the Office of the State Comptroller at 800-252-1386.

4. Should I file a lawsuit?

A Judge or Court clerk cannot advise you whether or not to file a lawsuit. Filing a lawsuit should be a last resort if you are unable to resolve your dispute with the other party. But, do not wait too long to present your claim as it must be filed within any applicable statute of limitations.

5. What do I need to prepare for trial?

Gather all of the information you need to prove your claim. Collect all records, such as copies of contracts, invoices, or other agreements. Compile a list of witnesses with their names, addresses, and telephone numbers.

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Justices of the Peace - Evictions

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1. Where do I file my Eviction suit?

An eviction suit must be filed in the Justice Court in the precinct and county in which the property is located.

2. How can I find out which precinct a property is located in?

You can search the County Map by clicking "JP Precincts" and entering the address in the search bar, which is on the top right of the map page.

3. How much does it costs to file an Eviction suit?

A summary of the current costs can be found above in "Justice Court Fees".

4. How much does it costs for a Writ of Possession?

A summary of the current costs can be found above in "Justice Court Fees".

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Justices of the Peace - Traffic Offenses & Misdemeanor Cases

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1. What does a "plea" mean?

Once a defendant is given notice of the charges filed, the defendant must enter a plea of "guilty" (admitting to the offense), "nolo contendere" ("no contest") (not admitting guilt, but not contesting the charges filed, or "not guilty" (requiring a trial by judge or jury). A plea of "guilty" or "nolo contendere" ("no contest") will result in a finding of guilt by the court, along with a penalty. A plea of "not guilty" will result in the case being set for a trial by a judge or jury.

2. Do I have to come to court?

Defendants must appear either (1) in person, (2) by mail, or (3) through an attorney. Minors (under age 17) must appear before the court in person with a parent or legal guardian.

3. How long do I have to appear?

Your ticket (also called a citation) has an "on or before" date that was written in by the officer at the time citation was issued. It is also called your appearance day. You can usually take care of your business with the court on or before your appearance day.

4. What if the court is closed on my appearance day?

The citation states the appearance day is "on or before" the date given by the officer. However, if the appearance day falls on a weekend, holiday, or day when the court is closed for some unforeseen reason, your appearance day will be the next business day of the court.

5. Can I get an extension of my time to appear?

The courts will work with you on extensions but you must contact the court. This may vary according to each court's policy as some courts may require you to request an extension in writing while others may grant an extension by appearing in person or calling the court.

6. What if I just pay the fine?

If a defendant pays the fine without explanation, the court is authorized to accept the fine and enter a conviction as though the defendant appeared and entered a plea of "nolo contendere ("no contest"). A minor (under age 17) cannot pay the fine without appearing in court with a parent or guardian.

7. What if I cannot pay the fine?

If a defendant is unable to pay the fine, the court will work with the defendant with alternatives which may include, but not limited, to (1) a payment plan or (2) community service. A request and explanation of circumstances must be made, to the court, in writing or in person.

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Monkeypox

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1. What is monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a rare, zoonotic disease that is caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Zoonotic diseases are infectious diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans, humans to animals, and humans to humans.

2. How does monkeypox spread?

There are multiple ways monkeypox can spread:

• Direct person-to-person contact with the infected rash, scab, or body fluid of the individual with monkeypox
• By respiratory secretion, face-to-face contact, or intimate interactions such as cuddling, kissing, and sex. It is particularly important to monitor pregnant women as the disease can spread to the fetus.
• Touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids.
• In rare cases, monkeypox can spread from infected animals, either by being scratched or bitten by the animal or by eating meat or using products from an infected animal.

3. What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

Symptoms will often include rashes that can look like pimples or blisters. These can appear on the face, inside the mouth, and in other parts of the body such as hands, feet, chest genitals, or anus. Rashes will go through different stages before healing completely, a process that can remain for several weeks. Some individuals who have monkeypox will only experience rashes, however, other symptoms that are common with monkeypox include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches and backache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion

4. How long does it take for someone infected with monkeypox to show symptoms?

Monkeypox symptoms usually start to show within two weeks of exposure to the virus.

5. How dangerous is it?

While mild or severe cases can be extremely painful and require hospitalization, over 99% of people who get this form of the disease are likely to survive. However, people with weakened immune systems, children under 8 years of age, people with a history of eczema, and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding may be more likely to get seriously ill or die.

6. Is a vaccine available yet?

Yes. However, it is NOT recommended for everyone and will be provided to residents pending authorization from the local health department in partnership with a primary care provider or approved medical group.

The vaccine is available only to those individuals who have been directly exposed to monkeypox and/or are at high risk of contracting the monkeypox virus. Residents seeking a monkeypox vaccine should first seek guidance from their primary care provider.

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Monkeypox - Prevention and Treatment

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1. What actions can be taken to prevent infection with the monkeypox virus?

Take the following steps to prevent getting monkeypox:

• Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox.
• Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox.
• Do not kiss, hug, cuddle or have sex with someone with monkeypox.
• Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with monkeypox.
• Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

2. What treatments are available?

HHS's new monkeypox vaccination plan will include the distribution of the two-dose JYNNEOS vaccine. JYNNEOS is a safe vaccine and is administered as a live virus that is non-replicating. The vaccine is used for protection against smallpox and monkeypox in individuals 18 years and older determined to be at high risk for smallpox or monkeypox infection. People who receive JYNNEOS are not considered vaccinated until they receive both vaccine doses, which are given four weeks apart. Full protection is not conferred until two weeks after receipt of the second dose.

Antivirals, such as tecovirimat (TPOXX), may be recommended for people who are more likely to get severely ill, like patients with weakened immune systems.

3. Who can I reach out to for more information?

We encourage residents to call their primary care provider if they begin to experience symptoms or fear they may have been exposed to someone with monkeypox.

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Monkeypox - Vaccination Strategy

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1. What are the current monkeypox vaccination guidelines?

CDC recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to monkeypox and people who are at higher risk of being exposed to monkeypox, including:

• People who public health officials have identified as contact with someone with monkeypox
• People who may have been exposed to monkeypox, such as:
• People who are aware that one of their sexual partners in the past 2 weeks has been diagnosed with monkeypox
• People who had multiple sexual partners in the past 2 weeks in an area with known monkeypox
• People whose jobs may expose them to orthopoxviruses, such as:
• Laboratory workers who perform testing for orthopoxviruses
• Laboratory workers who handle cultures or animals with orthopoxviruses
• Some designated healthcare or public health workers

2. What is the vaccination strategy?

The vaccines will be prioritized for individuals who are at risk of monkeypox, prioritize vaccines for areas with the highest numbers of cases, and provide guidance to state, territorial, tribal, and local health officials to aid their planning and response efforts.

3. What is our role in the vaccination and prevention strategy against monkeypox?

We are actively working with the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and local partners in Health Service Region 6/5 South to monitor the monkeypox situation closely, which includes any updates about federal shipments of the monkeypox vaccine or testing enhancements.

As always we are actively standing by for notifications to monitor people who are exposed to the virus or reports of suspected cases. We ask that residents and partners alike remain vigilant and help share monkeypox information moving forward.

4. What is our role in the vaccination and prevention strategy against monkeypox?

We are actively working with the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and local partners in Health Service Region 6/5 South to monitor the monkeypox situation closely, which includes any updates about federal shipments of the monkeypox vaccine or testing enhancements.

As always we are actively standing by for notifications to monitor people who are exposed to the virus or reports of suspected cases. We ask that residents and partners alike remain vigilant and help share monkeypox information moving forward.

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Mosquito Control

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1. What factors contribute to the extended duration of the spraying process?

Chambers County spans roughly 600 square miles, and recent population growth in rural and suburban areas has substantially increased the acreage within our aerial spray zones. Under favorable weather conditions, it now takes approximately five days to cover all these zones with one aircraft. Annually, we use around 10,000 gallons of spray, effectively protecting and enhancing over 625,000 acres throughout the County using this single aircraft.

2. How can I reduce the mosquito presence around my residence?

The initial defense against mosquitoes begins at the household level. Conduct a thorough property assessment to identify potential mosquito breeding sites. Anything capable of retaining water for more than five days, even small items like bottle caps, poses a risk.

If feasible, relocate or store these containers to prevent water accumulation, as this is the most effective approach. In situations where removal isn't practical, such as bird baths or pet water dishes, adopt a routine of rinsing them every three days. Avoid the simple addition of water; the key is to flush out any mosquito larvae onto the ground for elimination. For rainwater collection used in plant care, consider using a screen to prevent mosquito egg-laying.

Maintenance of rain gutters is crucial, as obstructions can result in standing water and create a mosquito breeding environment. Address low-lying areas in your yard or beneath your house whenever possible. Swiftly rectify water leaks, as even plastic sheeting can trap water and contribute to mosquito proliferation. It's essential to remember that breeding mosquitoes inevitably leads to increased mosquito presence.

While it's challenging to prevent mosquitoes from distant areas, certain measures can help avoid attracting them to your residence. If you have security lights, consider deactivating them or replacing them with motion-activated lights that only activate as needed. If continuous lighting is necessary, switch from a mercury vapor bulb to a sodium vapor bulb, as the yellowish sodium vapor light is less appealing to insects than the blue-white mercury vapor light. Additionally, consider deactivating your bug zapper, as it primarily captures non-mosquito insects, while its light can attract mosquitoes to the vicinity.

3. What is the relationship between urban flight and mosquito-related issues?

The term "urban flight" denotes the phenomenon of urban residents relocating to rural areas.

A growing number of individuals are making the choice to leave urban environments, typically characterized by a lower presence of mosquitoes, in favor of life in rural and suburban settings. Their motivation often centers on the pursuit of an improved quality of life. However, it's crucial to note that this envisioned "better life" encompasses interactions with a spectrum of wildlife, including snakes, alligators, rats, mosquitoes, and occasional sightings of low-flying mosquito control aircraft during early morning or late evening hours.

Furthermore, these newcomers frequently settle in subdivisions that were formerly rice fields or are encompassed by such fields. It takes some time for them to adapt to the heightened mosquito activity and the routine aerial spraying. Some residents may express concerns about aerial spraying above their residences while maintaining expectations of effective mosquito control, often without a complete understanding of the limitations associated with chemical treatments, which lack a residual effect.