Coronavirus: Austin, Travis County Urge Use Of Face Coverings

AUSTIN, TX — City and county officials are recommening the use of fabric face coverings by members of the public in adherence to newly shared guidance frm the Centers for Diseaes Control and Prevention, the region's health authority said Sunday.

The face masks are to be worn when conducting essential activities outside residents' homes in an effort to slow spread of the COVID-19 virus causing respiratory illness. Austin-Travis County Interim Health Authority Dr. Mark Escott announced the recommendation with support from Austin Mayor Steve Adler and Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt.

The measure comes amid evidence asympotmatic people — those exhibiting no symptoms of COVID-19 but could still be carriers — could potentially spread illness. Before, it was thought only those already showing signs of infection could spread the illness through coughing or sneezing, prompting now obsolete advice related to masks once aimed solely to those already stricken with symptoms.

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“This is another piece of a complex process to slow the spread and flatten the curve in our community,” Escott said in a prepared statement. “While you might otherwise feel well and healthy, we need everyone’s help to prevent the potential asymptomatic spread to others who could face more severe symptoms.”

Adler expounded on the matter on Sunday as part of now-regular dispatches to residents from his home:

Notwithstanding the new guidance, officials noted it remains critical for residents to understand that a face covering does not substitute for the need to maintain physical distancing and the Stay Home-Work Safe Order. Instead, face coverings — coupled with physical distancing — are seen as important tools to decrease the risk of illness spread.

Officials pointed to scarves or bandanas as readily available household items that can serve as a face covering. Plenty of do-it-yourself plans are also available online including guidance from the CDC and more from Austin Public Health.

Officials noted the recommendation is for use of fabric face coverings and not medical-grade masks or N-95 respirators, which are in short supply and should be conserved for healthcare workers and first responders. "It is important that our healthcare workers on the front line combating COVID-19 have access to the medical grade equipment that they need to care for themselves and our community," officials noted in a press advisory.

To donate much-needed personal protective equipment, visit Austin Disaster Relief Network's website.

Officials offered additional guidance as it relates to the wearing of protective masks:

• For maximum effectiveness, the face covering should cover both the nose and mouth and attach securely behind the ears.
• Coverings should be washed after each use with hot water and detergent and hands should be washed immediately after touching the cover.
• Face coverings should not be placed on young children younger than 2 years old, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the cover without assistance.

Health officials noted it is vital that people experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, even mild ones, should not leave home for any reason except for medical care. Mild symptoms in COVID-19 positive patients include:

• Sore throat.
• Body aches.
• Headaches.
• Change in the ability to smell and taste.
• Nasal congestion.

Individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should call their healthcare provider before walking into a clinic, urgent care center or hospital. People experiencing COVID-19 symptoms who are uninsured and do not have an established doctor can call the COVID-19 Hotline at (512) 978-8775 for guidance. For more information and updates, visit www.AustinTexas.gov/COVID19.