Hello. I'm Dr. Desmar Walkes, the Health Authority for Austin Public Health.
I want to talk to you about the precautions and recommendations that help stop the spread of COVID-19.
Our healthcare system needs to be protected from a continued surge in cases. Because of that I'm asking everyone in Austin-Travis County to go out and get vaccinated, continue to wear your mask when you cannot socially distance, and stay home when sick. Get tested if you have symptoms.
Vaccines are free and widely available in our community. The vaccines are extremely effective in preventing severe illness, hospitalizations and death from COVID-19. You can go to vaccines.gov to find out where you can get a shot. Encourage your loved ones to go also get vaccinated.
As many of you know - the proper use of masks continue to be a key part of slowing the spread of COVID-19. It is important that we protect oursevles and our loved ones and make sure masks are worn correctly over the mouth and nose. Not only should masks be worn, but also you should remember to keep a safe physical distance of six feet from others to minimize disease transmission.
For more information about COVID-19 vaccines and testing, you can visit AustinTexas.gov/Covid19.