Official Statement:
Matthew McConaughey, Mayor Steve Adler, and Judge Sarah Eckhart teamed up to draw attention to the City and County’s efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19.
The Community is doing really well but as good as we’re doing, it’s not good enough,” says Mayor Adler. “You can get this virus, not feel any of it, and be infecting other people. We really need people in our community to stay at home, spend time with those you love. It’s going to take all of us together.”
The campaign urges young adults, especially college students, to stay home except for essential activities and to maintain six feet of physical ‘social’ distance if you need to leave home.
“The virus doesn’t spread unless we spread it,” added McConaughey. “If you feel great, that doesn’t mean you don’t have the virus and can’t spread it. Take care of yourself and you’ll be taking care of others. No matter how good you feel, stay home if you can. If there’s a city that can come together and build for a better tomorrow, it’s Austin, Texas.”
If you are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms such as fever, dry cough and shortness of breath, call your health care provider or use telehealth resources before visiting a hospital or urgent care clinic. Individuals who are uninsured or without an established provider can call the CommUnity Care COVID-19 Hotline at 512-978-8775 for guidance.
A healthcare provider will determine if there is another plausible diagnosis with similar symptoms (i.e. influenza). For suspected COVID-19 cases, your doctor will fill out a form. Austin Public Health (APH) will use this information to assess risk and criteria to determine whether a test is appropriate.
APH continues to stress the importance of practicing good personal hygiene and maintaining social distance during essential activities to disrupt the spread of the virus.
Proper hygiene practices include:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow or use a tissue to cover it, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
