Texas Children’s Hospital is now admitting adult patients, to help other Houston hospital ICUs and acute care units that have reached patient capacity amid the COVID-19 surge, the hospital said in a statement.

“Yes, Texas Children’s is admitting adult patients,” the statement read. “We are committed to doing our part to assist the city as the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise.

Dr. Shubhada Hooli tweeted: “Just like that — in Houston, we the pediatricians at Texas Children’s Hospital, will now start seeing adult patients. I’m up for the challenge, but please help us out. #WearAMask and stay home. I guess its time to retire my giraffe reflex hammer.”

The measure marks the first time during the pandemic that Texas Children’s has accommodated a COVID-19 surge plan that was prepared in April.

COVID-19 hospitalizations have more than doubled in the last month, Governor Greg Abbott said.  On Monday, new COVID-19 hospitalizations climbed to 3,711, according to Texas Health and Human Services.

Texas Children’s officials urged all Texans to take heed of COVID-19 precautions.

“We know COVID-19 has not gone away,” the statement read. “We implore you to take responsible actions – practice appropriate social distancing, wear a mask or face covering anytime you leave your home, wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds, and avoid touching your face.”