August proved to be the pandemic’s most lethal month since COVID-19 vaccines became available earlier in the year, Austin Public Health officials reported on Wednesday. The number of deaths reported is now above 1000 for Austin and Travis County.
“With more cases comes more deaths and while symptoms may be insignificant to you, not wearing a mask, not social distancing, and not staying home when sick, are contributing to the spread that will eventually reach a loved one who dies.” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority. “We need to work together as individuals to survive as a community.”
Local deaths range in age from people as young as 20 to over 80 years of age. Deaths were concentrated among those over 60 years old.
“Almost all of our recent deaths are unvaccinated,” said Interim Austin Public Health Director Adrienne Sturrup. “When you get vaccinated, you are showing your kids leadership. When you wear a mask, you are teaching them to respect being a part of the collective community. You are instilling values they will carry with them throughout their lives.”
According to the Texas Department of Health Services, currently 31.91% of eligible Austin-Travis County residents are NOT fully vaccinated .
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