The City of Austin and Travis County have lifted all COVID-19 emergency rules and orders, effective immediately. That decision came this week as infection and hospitalization numbers are among the lowest the area has seen since the beginning of the pandemic.
Masking in most city facilities will now be optional, with a few exceptions such as the airport, clinical settings, and jails. Orders regarding masking on public school campuses and signage requirements for businesses are no longer in effect.
“We have not eliminated the virus but adapted to it. We now have knowledge and tools to fight COVID-19 when we are called to do so,” said Austin-Travis County Health Authority, Dr. Desmar Walkes. “I am confident that the community will come together if the need arises again, as they have for the past two years of this pandemic.”
In this new phase of the response, Austin Public Health is preparing to adopt the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Community Levels tracker. Expect this update in the coming days.
“Effective immediately, masking indoors, including inside city buildings, is no longer required (with only limited exceptions). Congratulations — it’s about time!” said Austin Mayor Steve Adler. “Thank you to everyone vaccinated and boosted for helping to get us here.”
