TEXAS: Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ordered face coverings to be worn in public as coronavirus cases soar in the state.

The directive applies to counties with 20 or more Covid-19 cases, which covers most of Texas’ 254 counties.

Texas hit a record of more than 8,000 virus cases in a day on Wednesday, up from about 2,400 two weeks ago.

Americans are about to mark the Fourth of July weekend, with some beaches coast to coast shut and fireworks displays cancelled.

There have now been 2.7 million recorded infections nationwide and more than 128,000 deaths since the pandemic began.

“Wearing a face covering will help us to keep Texas open for business,” Mr Abbott said, announcing the order.

After an initial warning, those who refuse will face a fine up to $250.

“Let me be clear: no-one can ever be put in jail for violating this safe practice,” the governor said.

(With inputs from Agencies)