Two new coronavirus deaths reported in Travis County May 18

There were two new coronavirus deaths and 78 new positive cases reported in Travis County May 18, bringing the total deaths in the county related to the pandemic to 79. There have also been 2,537 total cases reported in the community.

Since May 4, the total number of coronavirus patients actively hospitalized in facilities in the Austin metropolitan area have been somewhat stable, fluctuating between 85 and 98 people. There are currently 92 hospitalized coronavirus patients, according to May 18 data.

There have also been 892 reported recoveries in Travis County since the pandemic began in mid-March.

The 78 new cases May 18 represent the highest single-day total in the county since April 13, which had 82 new cases. That high contrasts the 34 new cases reported yesterday, which was the lowest total reported over the past week.

While local officials have stated that testing has increased in the county, Travis County does not report daily or total testing information.

On the same day office buildings and businesses such as gyms could reopen in Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott May 18 announced that the state has entered Phase 2 of its ongoing economic reopening plan. According to Phase 2, restaurants may open at 50% capacity, and bars, wine tasting rooms and breweries may open for 25% capacity beginning May 22. Summer camp and sports programs will be permitted to resume beginning May 31.