Coronavirus: Matthew McConaughey Recruited To Dispense Advice

AUSTIN, TX — This looks like a job for the Minister of Culture.

In the wake of 44 newly diagnosed coronavirus cases in Austin — all University of Texas at Austin students who defied broadly broadcast advice on staying home to blunt the spread of illness — the city recruited star power in advising young people to adhere to physical distancing provisions.

Oscar-winning actor Matthew McConaughey — a Texas native who's a fixture at UT-Austin sporting events in supporting his alma mater — joined Austin Mayor Steve Adler and Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt in a public service announcement largely targeting college students now burdened with social distancing guidance to which others are adhering.

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The PSA comes after revelations of an ill-timed trip to the coastal city of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, by 70 UT-Austin students on a chartered plane to celebrate Spring Break. The trip defied advice from health officials pointing to the tactics of social distancing as the most effective way to avert illness spread for the COVID-19 virus for which there is no vaccination.

"The community is doing really well but as good as we’re doing, it’s not good enough,” Adler says on the video presentation, seated within the recommended distance from McConaughey and Eckhardt. “You can get this virus, not feel any of it, and be infecting other people. We really need people in our community to stay at home, spend time with those you love. It’s going to take all of us together.”

View the Public Service Announcement HERE.
Download the Public Service Announcement HERE.

The campaign urges young adults — especially college students — to stay home except for essential activities and to maintain six feet of physical distance when leaving home for essential outings.

McConaughey delivered an impassioned plea to a population segment largely admired by the younger set: “The virus doesn’t spread unless we spread it,” he says on the video. "If you feel great, that doesn’t mean you don’t have the virus and can't spread it. Take care of yourself and you’ll be taking care of others. No matter how good you feel, stay home if you can. If there’s a city that can come together and build for a better tomorrow, it’s Austin, Texas.”

Notwithstanding the decidedly serious message, Eckhardt provided a moment of levity in introducing McConaughey while espousing the importance of social distancing: "Despite his ridiculous animal magnetism, I am practicing social distancing, and keeping six feet away from him," the judge quipped. The flattering introduction left the actor grinning and the mayor palpably humbled, as seen on the video.

Related stories:

• Coronavirus: 44 UT-Austin Students Test Positive After Vacation
• Coronavirus: 28 Returning Vacationers Test Positive In Austin
• Coronavirus: Young Austin Patient In Critical Condition
• Coronavirus: Texas Illness Count Grows To 4,469, With 70 Deaths

Those exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms such as fever, dry cough and shortness of breath, are urged to call their health care provider or use telehealth resources before visiting a hospital or urgent care clinic. Individuals who are uninsured or without an established provider can call the CommUnity Care COVID-19 Hotline at (512) 978-8775 for guidance.

A healthcare provider will determine if there is another plausible diagnosis with similar symptoms (i.e. influenza). For suspected COVID-19 cases, your doctor will fill out a form. Austin Public Health (APH) will use this information to assess risk and criteria to determine whether a test is appropriate.

Austin Public Health continues to stress the importance of practicing good personal hygiene and maintaining social distance during essential activities to disrupt the spread of the virus.

Proper hygiene practices include:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or use a tissue to cover it, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

For more information and updates, visit www.AustinTexas.gov/COVID19.