As the COVID-19 in Austin crisis continues to spread and affect more areas, many are growing more and more concerned every day. If you are looking to book a future trip, you may be wondering what measures are being taken to contain the outbreak and care for the sick in that area. We’re here to help address some of those concerns, as well as to share tips on what you can do personally to prevent sickness.

Official Responses

Austin, Texas is a tourist hotspot for fans of all things funky and foodie. How are officials in Texas responding to this pandemic? According to information from their website, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in responding to the new COVID-19 in Austin virus that is causing an outbreak of respiratory illness worldwide.

On March 19th, 2020, the commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services declared a public health disaster in the state. Then on March 26th, 2020, Texas Gov. Abbot issued a self-quarantine edict that requires air travelers from the New York tri-state area and both air and road travelers from New Orleans to self-quarantine for 14 days after arriving in Texas, following specific CDC direction for self-quarantine behavior. This direction includes social distancing, being alert for symptoms, and taking one’s temperature twice a day. The Governor also announced that while less than 200 Texans were currently hospitalized, a makeshift hospital is being set up in Dallas in preparation, bringing the state’s hospital bed count to 17,400.

In addition, Texas officials are working in accordance with guidelines from the President and the CDC. This includes avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people, avoiding eating or drinking at bars and restaurants, and no visits to gyms, massage parlors or retirement homes. Schools are also closed, and religious services are providing online resources or meeting in small groups. Several specific counties, including Travis County, where Austin is located, have issued an official stay-at-home order for everything except essential activities.

The Stay Home – Work Safe Order issued by the Mayor of the City of Austin states, “Individuals may leave their residence only to perform any of the following ‘Essential Activities.’” Essential activities include:

• Caring for the health and safety of yourself or members of your household.
• Obtaining necessary services or supplies for yourself or members of your household, such as groceries.
• Engaging in outdoor activity, such as walking, running, and hiking, while maintaining social distance.
• Engaging in essential types of work, such as healthcare, grocery and supply store employees, farmers, social services, news, gas stations, financial institutions, hardware stores, critical trades, mail service, and restaurants providing takeout, among others.

Officials are also asking for the public’s cooperation in taking measures to prevent the spread of disease. Such measures include:

• Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food.
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Staying home when you are sick.
• Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

We’ll Get Through This Together

We here in Austin and at Austin Vacation Rentals are doing all we can to cooperate with local and federal guidelines, and it is our sincere hope for all local residents and future guests to stay safe and healthy as we navigate this pandemic. We look forward to strengthening our community and coming out of this stronger than ever, and we will be here to serve you as soon as we can! Click here today to browse through our amazing vacation rentals.