Austin Public Health has updated its COVID-19 risk-based guidelines to align with new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention metrics. The CDC introduced Community Levels to track the spread of COVID-19 at the county level in February.
“We continue to adapt our response as we enter a new phase of this pandemic.” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority. “While we enjoy the progress we’ve made, we should remember that this isn’t over yet; the potential for new variants still poses a threat.”
There are three Community Levels: “Low,” “Medium,” and “High.” These levels replace the stages (1-5) that guided Austin Public Health’s response for much of the pandemic.
The risk level for Austin-Travis County is currently “low.”
“We’re excited to roll out an updated tool offering our community the guidance necessary to stay safe and healthy moving forward,” said Austin Public Health Director Adrienne Sturrup. “We thank everyone for stepping up and taking precautions when it was asked of them. We’re optimistic about this new phase and feel confident our community is better equipped to respond if—and when—the need arises.”
The City of Austin and Travis County lifted all COVID-19 orders last week, which included mask requirements at most city and county facilities.
