Covid threat raised to ‘medium’

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention raised Travis County’s Covid-19 Community Level to “medium” late last week after it rested comfortably at “low” for a spell. “We’re seeing steady increases in case totals and hospitalizations which is incredibly concerning,” Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County health authority, said in a statement to the press about the change. “We need everyone to do their part, especially those who are at higher risk. Wear a mask inside when gathering with others. We know that this will help protect loved ones at risk for poor outcomes and our hospital system.”  This chart explains the guidelines for CDC levels adopted by Austin Public Health:
New cases per 100,000 residents had risen to 202.99, passing the “medium” threshold of 200, which was established by the CDC. In addition, Travis County is conducting wastewater surveillance to monitor the presence of the virus. Find more information about the risk-based guidelines, free masks and tests, and vaccine information here.