AUSTIN (Talk1370.com) -- Local health officials have downgraded the Austin area's COVID-19 risk to Stage 4, under Austin Public Health's risk-based guidelines.
The move, which interim health authority Dr. Mark Escott announced Tuesday morning during a briefing to the Austin City Council, comes after the downward trajectory of new hospitalizations has to levels allowing the change.
"The disease is still spreading... it's out there, there's still significant spread in our community so we are, regardless of age group, need to continue those protective actions," Escott said.
The area entered Stage 5 guidelines just before the Christmas holiday on Dec. 23. Officials are watching to see if the Super Bowl this past weekend will have a negative effect on the trends, with a potential move back to Stage 5 possible if trends turn negative.
Under Stage 4 guidelines, high-risk individuals are urged to stay home except for essential trips. Everyone else is urged to limit non-essential travel.
