AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- Despite news of COVID-19 vaccines coming soon, what are the realistic chances of Austin's marquee large events happening as early as the spring of 2021?
Travis County interim health authority Dr. Mark Escott was asked that exact question during Wednesday's weekly Austin Public Health coronavirus media availability.
"Well, I think it's important to remember that the large events were the first thing that we turned off and will probably be the last thing we turn back on," Escott said. "But the situation ... as the vaccine becomes available, as people get the vaccine, and as we move closer towards herd immunity, that risk for large surges will start to diminish."
South by Southwest, which was canceled last spring for the first time in its 34-year history, is ramping up a digital experience while hoping to still hold some kind of physical event. Other traditional spring events, including Rodeo Austin, and the inaugural season of Major League Soccer with Austin FC, are also keeping an eye on the virus as they continue moving towards their 2021 plans.
"That's why it's important that folks get the vaccine. Complete their series of vaccine because we know right now that at least these initial vaccines are going to require two doses," Escott said. "The better compliance we can get with vaccination, the more likely it is that as we approach April, May, June, that will be more inclined to start approving those larger events."
