"SXSW had many other factors in their decision that do not impact us. They had tens of thousands of visitors traveling from all over the Country as well as having many Events in confined Hotel meeting rooms," festival staff wrote in the March 8 Facebook post. "The Austin Music & Arts Festival is outdoors only and is primarily attended by folks local to the area."
Neither Austin nor Travis County have any positive cases of COVID-19—the infectious disease caused by the coronavirus—according to Austin/Travis County Medical Director Dr. Mark Escott. Dr. Lori Palazzo, medical director and local health authority for Williamson County, confirmed in a March 5 tweet that no positive cases have been reported within the county.
Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, high-risk populations include older adults and those with compromised immune systems or existing health complications. Based on CDC guidelines, Austin Music & Arts Festival staff encouraged those who identify as part of these categories take the same precautions they would for potential exposure to Influenza, or the flu.
"For everyone else, we welcome you to the 2020 Austin Music & Arts Festival," the announcement concluded. "Come support the Austin Arts Community, and have fun enjoying the great attractions and concert entertainment."
