Texas health officials have not said how many of the evacuated residents had active coronavirus infections, but state records indicate at least nine nursing homes reported plans to move COVID-19 patients.
Statewide, nearly half of nursing homes report having at least one active coronavirus infection among residents or staff.
Evacuating nursing homes is challenging even under more normal circumstances.
But remaining in place is not an option during a hurricane, and federal regulations require nursing homes to develop and practice emergency preparedness plans.
Disclosure: The Texas Health Care Association has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors.