On June 9, the caseload in Travis County reached 202.99 new cases per 100,000 people, which is over the 200 case threshold to trigger more stringent health suggestions.
"We’re seeing steady increases in case totals and hospitalizations, which is incredibly concerning,” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority, in a press release. “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.”
Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5 have been detected in the community, according to Austin Public Health.
Under the medium community threshold, individuals who are up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations and medium risk should mask when social distancing is not possible, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. High-risk individuals should mask regardless of vaccine status.
APH said it supports masking regardless of risk for vaccination status when gathering, dining or shopping.