Austin enters Stage 4 COVID-19 risk-based level; mayor expects ‘more hospitalizations and deaths’

Austin is now in Stage 4 of its COVID-19 risk-based levels after 30 new hospital admissions on Sunday

According to the city’s website, the new risk-based guidelines set out five distinct stages of risk, from the lowest threat, Stage 1, to the most serious, Stage 5, along with recommended behaviors for each stage.

The recommendations for the fourth stage are as follows: practice good hygiene; stay home if you’re sick; avoid other people who are sick; maintain social distancing; wear fabric face coverings in public; avoid non-essential travel, all social gatherings and any gatherings of more than two people for high-risk individuals.

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On Sunday, Austin Mayor Steve Adler wrote a letter about the spike in local hospitalizations, stating that the city passed its 20 new daily hospital admission it has been averaging in the span of seven days. He added the spike will soon lead to an “overwhelming surge” in hospital admissions.

“Make no mistake, we will be seeing more hospitalizations and deaths,” he said in his letter, adding that the city needs Gov. Greg Abbott’s help when it comes to enforcing masks and social distancing. In Texas, masks are recommended but not mandated.

In the letter, Adler also revealed he was tested for COVID-19 last week. The mayor posted a video of him being tested on his Instagram on Wednesday as a way to encourage others to get tested if they are experiencing symptoms or have been exposed to the virus. He said it was “a little uncomfortable” but “pretty quick.”

“Sure, it feels funny. But it’s fast and it doesn’t hurt,” he concluded in his letter.

Priscilla Aguirre is a general assignment reporter for MySA.com | [email protected] | @CillaAguirre