APH Releases COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Dashboard

For immediate release: February 8, 2021 Contact:  Austin-Travis County Joint Information System, 512-974-0699, hsempio@austintexas.gov   APH Releases COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Dashboard Austin, Texas – In continuing efforts to increase transparency and data for the public, Austin Public Health (APH) has released its sixth dashboard. The COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Dashboard includes the total of APH-administered doses organized by priority age group, zip code, race/ethnicity, and the estimated 2019 Travis County population with the percentage of those 65 years of age and older for context. This dashboard will be updated weekly.  Mobile Version Desktop Version According to the American Community survey, Travis County has 129,645 people over the age of 65 composed of 68.2% White, 18% Hispanic, 7.6% African American, 5.1% Asian, and 3.9% two or more races. The data indicates that the proportions of COVID-19 vaccines administered by APH are consistent with the percentage of people age 65 years of age for individuals identifying as Asian, Hispanic, and White, but falls short for the those who identify as African American. "Our mission has always been to reach and serve our most vulnerable populations. Based on the demographic data, we are encouraged by the results so far. But we remain deeply concerned that vaccine distribution is not reaching individuals who identify as Hispanic or African American, especially given the pandemic's disproportionate impact to these communities," said APH Director Stephanie Hayden-Howard. "We must expand current efforts to provide vaccines to more members of our Hispanic and African American communities, especially in areas where disease transmission is high." Even though 18% of the vaccines administered by APH are to those who identify as Hispanic, that is not enough to counter the transmission levels among this population. Additionally, only 4% of African Americans in Travis County have received the vaccine from APH, despite making up 7.6% of the Travis County population aged 65 and older. The City and County have implemented some strategies to address these concerns, that include: Working with grassroots organizations on communicating the importance of receiving the vaccine. Partnering with Travis County to proactively call community members of vulnerable populations and register them in the system and, if appointments are available, schedule an appointment. Exploring options such as mobile vaccine clinics which could also administer the vaccine to homebound residents. Strategically identifying where communities are hardest hit to establish vaccine distribution sites. Partnering with CapMetro to offer transportation to vaccine appointments. Continuing PPE distributions with community organizations. There are more than 150,000 people who qualify as 1A or 1B, and APH has only received 12,000 vaccines per week since Jan. 11.   "Our dashboard includes our population size and the amount of vaccine the department administers. For a community with over 1.3 million people and receiving 12,000 doses per week, we have a long way to go," said Dr. Mark Escott, Interim Austin-Travis County Health Authority.  "We simply do not have enough of the vaccine to give to everyone who needs and wants it. While we wait for supplies to increase, we need everyone to help slow the spread by practicing the 3 W's – Wear a face covering, Wash your hands, and Watch your distance."   Additional Dashboard Notes There are over 350 COVID-19 vaccine providers in Travis County that have been approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).  The APH COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Dashboard is limited to data about the doses administered by APH. The allocation data shown on the dashboard is different than the current allocation received by APH. The data does not include vaccinations which were performed prior to the electronic registration process. This information is being manually entered by staff. As APH vaccine distribution fully transitions to using the technology available, the data will be more reflective of APH's our weekly allocation. The DSHS vaccine map shows the total amount of vaccines being providing in Travis County in addition to a link to the John Hopkins vaccine tracker.  APH will continue making improvements to the dashboard as more information becomes available. For the latest information and updates, visit  AustinTexas.gov/COVID19.

News from AustinTexas.gov

News from the City of Austin, Texas New podcast takes off from Austin-Bergstrom Feb 04, 2021 04:24 pm AUSTIN, Texas – Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes to keep an airport running during a global pandemic? Where's the best place to watch planes arriving into Austin? And where can you find the best burger inside the Barbara Jordan Terminal? These are just a few of the questions to be tackled in Austin-Bergstrom International Airport's new podcast, The Austin Approach. "The Austin Approach will be an accessible look into the operations, culture and events at our airport," said Gina Fiandaca, the City of Austin's Assistant City Manager for Mobility. "We look forward to giving Austin residents a behind-the-scenes view into their airport and the critical role it plays in our economy and transportation network." Launching on February 4, the podcast will offer listeners a look into all things Austin-Bergstrom, featuring interviews with airport staff, news and updates from around the campus, and insider stories about airport life. Co-hosted by members of the airport's Performance Management and Public Information & Marketing teams, new episodes will be released twice each month and will be available on all major podcast streaming platforms, as well as on the AUS website. Episodes will be approximately 30 minutes in length – perfect for a commute or while waiting at the gate for a flight. "As passenger confidence continues to grow throughout 2021, we anticipate increased demand in air service at AUS," said Jacqueline Yaft, Chief Executive Officer. "The Austin Approach is a great way to reintroduce travelers to their Austin airport, and hear from the AUS team members who work hard to keep the airport safe and operational." Episode one is now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major podcast streaming platforms. In this episode, listeners will meet the co-hosts, learn about the airport's new Whataburger location, and hear from Airport Operations Chief, Towanda Cordon, about the impacts of COVID-19. Original music for The Austin Approach was written and recorded by AUS Music Program Coordinator, Michael Pennock.   About Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Owned and operated by the City of Austin, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is the second-fastest growing, mid-sized airport in the United States. Austin-Bergstrom is also an economic engine in Central Texas, supplying over 74,000 direct and indirect jobs in the Central Texas region. Its reflection of local food, music, art, and customer service has earned AUS recognition—including Runner-Up for Best Airport in the Wall Street Journal's Best U.S. Airports 2019. First Case of UK COVID-19 Variant Confirmed in Austin-Travis County Feb 03, 2021 06:28 pm Austin, Texas – Today, Austin Public Health (APH) has learned that the first case of the B.1.1.7 (UK) variant of COVID-19 has been confirmed in Austin-Travis County. The variant was discovered and confirmed through lab testing by a private local testing organization and was reported to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).   "While it is concerning that there is a confirmed COVID-19 variant in Austin-Travis County, it does not come as a surprise," said APH Director Stephanie Hayden-Howard. "It is important to remember that these COVID-19 variants spread the same way, and so it is important to continue the prevention measures we have been using for almost a year. People need to keep wearing a mask, social distancing, avoiding gatherings, and washing your hands frequently."  COVID-19 variants have been likely in Austin-Travis County for weeks, after a Harris County man with no history of travel was discovered to have a variant. APH lab testing will detect the coronavirus, but at this time, extended lab testing is required to determine the variant strains under the coronavirus umbrella at this time.  "It is common for viruses to mutate, especially when the original virus is in the community longer. Based on everything we have heard from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while the variants are potentially more contagious than the original virus, they are not more deadly," said Dr. Mark Escott, Interim Austin-Travis Health Authority. "From our understanding, currently approved vaccines are effective against the variants, and while this may be a reason to reemphasize the importance of prevention measures, it is not cause for alarm."   At this time, not all labs have the capabilities to test for the variants which is why data presented on the COVID-19 dashboards will not be distinguished by variant.   For more information about COVID-19, visit AustinTexas.gov/COVID19.

Austin Council Denounces Violent Extremism at U.S. Capitol

For immediate release: Feb. 4, 2021 Contact:  April Brown, Office of Council Member Alison Alter, (972) 955-0930   Austin City Council Denounces Violent Extremism at U.S. Capitol  The Austin City Council today unanimously approved a resolution sponsored by Council Member Alison Alter denouncing the Jan. 6, 2021, acts of domestic terrorism at the United States Capitol. The attacks resulted in the deaths of five people, dozens of injuries, still unknown costs for repairs, and the evacuation of hundreds of public servants from congressional chambers and offices for their safety. Council Member Alter was joined by her co-sponsors, Mayor Steve Adler, Council Member Kathie Tovo, Council Member Vanessa Fuentes, and Council Member Leslie Pool.   "We cannot be silent in the face of violence and intimidation, and we cannot allow our children to think these acts are normal and happen without consequence," said Council Member Alison Alter. "Too many times in history we have seen the dark realities of hatred and extremism left unchecked. It is our responsibility as community leaders to demonstrate that violent extremism and domestic terrorism will not be tolerated."    The Council resolution was authored in partnership with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and mirrors language adopted by legislative bodies across the country. The resolution affirms that the Austin City Council, "denounces extremist conspiracy theories, misinformation, and disinformation that cultivate an alienated and mistrustful electorate, undermine democratic institutions and processes, and increase the likelihood of violence" as well as "anti-government extremism, white supremacy, racism, antisemitism, misogyny, Islamophobia, anti-LGBTQ+ hate, ableism, ageism and all hateful speech."   "We are so pleased that the Austin City Council is showing the importance of leadership by using their voices to establish norms and build consensus around our shared values," said Renee Lafair, ADL Austin Regional Director. "Not only does the resolution condemn violent extremism, but it also asserts that bias and bigotry will not be tolerated in our communities. What leaders say matters." Each of the resolution's co-sponsors weighed in on the importance of taking a stand against extremism and violence.   "Our democracy is sacred, and not a given," said Mayor Adler. "As both elected representatives and members of our great nation, it is our duty to protect our democratic institutions. Violent extremism and democracy cannot exist together. I'm proud to stand with my colleagues and this city in continuing our work toward a more perfect union."   "This unprecedented attack on American democracy challenges us all to stand up to hatred and bigotry in our communities," stated Council Member Tovo. "We must resoundingly reject these violent acts, hold perpetrators accountable, and move forward together, through our shared grief and loss, toward building a stronger union."   Council Member Fuentes added, "I am proud to join my colleagues today, along with the Anti-Defamation League, in denouncing acts of hate and extremism against our communities. Unfortunately, most times acts of violence and domestic terrorism are aimed at marginalized communities which is why I believe it is important to stand together with our leaders to challenge racism, bigotry, and hateful rhetoric."   "We spent the last four years barraged by increasingly extremist voices growing across our nation," Council Member Pool said. "We must respond with equal passion in our principles, and stand together as a community to safeguard our democracy against acts of domestic terrorism, hatred, and bigotry."

First Case of UK COVID-19 Variant Confirmed in Austin-Travis County

For immediate release: February 3, 2021 Contact: Austin-Travis County Joint Information System, 512-974-0699, hsempio@austintexas.gov   First Case of UK COVID-19 Variant Confirmed in Austin-Travis County Protective measures and vaccine still effective against COVID-19 variants  Austin, Texas – Today, Austin Public Health (APH) has learned that the first case of the B.1.1.7 (UK) variant of COVID-19 has been confirmed in Austin-Travis County. The variant was discovered and confirmed through lab testing by a private local testing organization, and was reported to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).   "While it is concerning that there is a confirmed COVID-19 variant in Austin-Travis County, it does not come as a surprise," said APH Director Stephanie Hayden-Howard. "It is important to remember that these COVID-19 variants spread the same way, and so it is important to continue the prevention measures we have been using for almost a year. People need to keep wearing a mask, social distancing, avoiding gatherings, and washing your hands frequently."  COVID-19 variants have been likely in Austin-Travis County for weeks, after a Harris County man with no history of travel was discovered to have a variant. APH lab testing will detect the coronavirus, but at this time, extended lab testing is required to determine the variant strains under the coronavirus umbrella at this time.  "It is common for viruses to mutate, especially when the original virus is in the community longer. Based on everything we have heard from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while the variants are potentially more contagious than the original virus, they are not more deadly," said Dr. Mark Escott, Interim Austin-Travis Health Authority. "From our understanding, currently approved vaccines are effective against the variants, and while this may be a reason to reemphasize the importance of prevention measures, it is not cause for alarm."   At this time, not all labs have the capabilities to test for the variants which is why data presented on the COVID-19 dashboards will not be distinguished by variant.   For more information about COVID-19, visit AustinTexas.gov/COVID19.

Austin Public Health Partners with Local Artist to Spread Message of Solidarity and Hygiene

For immediate release: February 2, 2021 Contact: Austin-Travis County Joint Information System, 512-974-0699, hsempio@austintexas.gov   Austin Public Health Partners with Local Artist to Spread Message of Solidarity and Hygiene New mural in Northeast Austin unveiled Austin, Texas -- A new mural at the St. John's Community Center, 7500 Blessing Ave., is the newest of countless efforts to share a message of hope and a reminder that personal behavior can make a difference. This mural was commissioned by Austin Public Health (APH) with a design that depicts handwashing and includes this text: Manos limpias, ¡Austin saludable! Clean hands, healthy Austin! ¡La lucha es de todos! It's everyone's fight! The mural focuses on a message that is critical now, with the COVID-19 pandemic surging across the nation, and will also remain relevant for years to come. The longevity of a mural is typically 3-5 years.  The muralist Claudia Berenice Garza began painting the mural on Dec. 26, 2020 and completed the work on Jan. 13, 2021.  "Hand washing will ALWAYS be essential for good health and hygiene and I wanted to focus on that. In terms of the phrasing, the one that fit best, was that of this being everyone's fight," said Garza about her design proposal. APH's mission is to prevent disease, promote health, and protect the well-being of everyone in Austin-Travis County. Art can bring public health messages directly to the people in a way that inspires behavioral change. "We are excited to share this mural with the community and we hope that it brings a message of positivity and individuals actions having a ripple effect on the health of our community," said APH Director Stephanie Hayden-Howard. "We sought out a positive message with a reminder of community and togetherness, even when we cannot be together in person." The mural is open to the public to take photos. Individuals wishing to take photos at the mural should adhere to gathering restrictions, social distance, wear their masks and, of course, wash their hands frequently.  B-roll and stills can be found at this link. They can be used by members of the press with attribution to Austin Public Health.  About the Artist Claudia Berenice Garza was born and raised in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico and has resided in the Rio Grande Valley since 1998; she also lived in Brooklyn, New York for 8 years before returning to Texas in 2020. Her studies include an Associate of Visual Arts from South Texas College (2003) as well as a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drawing and Painting (2005) from the University of Texas - Pan American, now UT - Rio Grande Valley. As a painter, she has experience in portraiture, photo-realism, contemporary realism, surrealism, abstraction, Mexican folklore and mural work. Since her return to Texas, Claudia has become a sought after muralist for both public and private spaces. Her more recent murals reflect a new focus on community, tradition and education.

For immediate release: Feb. 1, 2021 Contact: Ken Craig, Ken.Craig@austintexas.gov, (512) 978-2105   Homeless Encampment Assistance Link (HEAL) Initiative Proposed to Immediately Connect People to Housing Recognizing the growing challenges facing individuals experiencing homelessness, this week the Austin City Council will consider a new initiative—the Homeless Encampment Assistance Link (HEAL)—to connect those living unsheltered to safe and stable housing and services. Sponsored by Council Members Ann Kitchen, Mackenzie Kelly, Leslie Pool, Sabino 'Pio' Renteria, and Kathie Tovo, HEAL will connect people living in unsheltered camping to housing or safe shelter, create a path to permanent housing, and over time alleviate the need for unsheltered camping. HEAL will be a collaboration among the City of Austin's Homeless Strategy Office, Austin Public Health, the City of Austin's Housing and Planning Department, Integral Care, and other community services providers. HEAL will begin by identifying four unsheltered camping locations across Austin that present health and safety risks to both those who reside there and to the broader community. HEAL will then connect those residents to the housing options that best match their needs, which can include rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing, and housing-focused shelter. As important, individuals will also be connected to case management support and health care services, such as medical, behavioral, and substance use disorder services. "Our shared goals are to ensure the health and safety of all who live in Austin, and with HEAL's integrated approach, we're reigniting our efforts to provide our unhoused residents with safe homes, case management, and social services," said Council Member Pool. Once staff and community partners have connected individuals in these areas to housing and services, they will determine how to discontinue camping in these unsafe locations. In this process, the City of Austin will uphold its commitment to the decriminalization of homelessness. "We owe our unhoused neighbors the same respect as any resident of Austin. The HEAL initiative demonstrates the City's commitment to compassionate responses, and to equitable treatment for both our housed and unhoused communities," noted Council Member Kelly.   HEAL will use a phased approach. Phase I, the first phase, will include four locations selected based on health and safety risk criteria. Future phases will include additional locations that pose risks and will incorporate information learned from Phase I. The City of Austin is particularly well-positioned to begin HEAL at this time. In January 2021, the City of Austin hired a permanent Homeless Strategy Officer, Dianna Grey, with the expertise to coordinate the initiative. To ensure success, the proposal dedicates at least $3 million for Phase I of the HEAL Initiative. The City learned from the "Guided Path" initiative around the ARCH the importance of dedicating sufficient resources for shelter, services, and permanent housing. The City has also learned from successful ongoing efforts focused on connecting veterans and youths experiencing homelessness to housing. "We built a successful system that addressed youth and veteran homelessness, and this can be a model for HEAL," Council Member Renteria said. "That experience will make HEAL a success." "We can end homelessness in this community and ensure every one of our neighbors has a safe and stable place to call home," said Council Member Tovo. "The city and our nonprofit partners can't do this work alone; we need the business and the broader community to join us in these efforts." Housing and services for HEAL will increase the City's efforts and will not divert existing resources or funding from other programs. "The HEAL initiative will be a significant addition to the work that is being done by everyone serving our most vulnerable neighbors," said Council Member Kitchen. "While HEAL is not a singular solution to addressing homelessness in Austin, it is an important step toward providing people living unsheltered with safer and healthier housing and services without relying on policing. The HEAL Initiative provides a path to connect people to housing and cease camping in unsafe areas." For more information, see this Fact Sheet and FAQ: https://bit.ly/2YD67yW

Governor’s Order Restrictions Cancelled for Trauma Service Area that Includes Austin-Travis County

For immediate release: January 30, 2021 Contact:  Austin-Travis County Joint Information System, 512-974-0699, hsempio@austintexas.gov Governor's Order GA 32 Restrictions Cancelled for Trauma Service Area that Includes Austin-Travis County Austin, Texas – Today, Jan. 30, the Department of State Health Services announced that previous COVID-19 restrictions related to occupancy requirements and restrictions have been cancelled.   Under Governor's Order GA 32, after a state Trauma Service Area has COVID-19 hospitalizations that represent 15% of all hospitalizations for seven consecutive days, additional restrictions on businesses and hospitals must occur. Austin-Travis County is part of Trauma Service Area O, which encompasses 11 counties in Central Texas crossed that threshold on Jan. 10.   Today, Trauma Service Area O has been below 15% COVID-19 hospitalizations for seven consecutive days.   The restrictions outlined in GA 32 are required by the Governor's Order and were not optional for local jurisdictions. Businesses, including restaurants and retail, are now permitted to move to 75% occupancy from 50% occupancy, and hospitals can resume elective surgeries.   "This is a clear sign that the COVID-19 situation in our region is improving," said Dr. Mark Escott, Interim Austin-Travis County Health Authority. "However, we cannot let up now. Let us be the leaders on how a community flattens a curve and keeps it flat. With less restrictions, comes more responsibility. We must continue to stay home and reduce risk to save lives."   Austin-Travis County remains in Stage 5 of the COVID-19 community risk level; the highest level. The risk-based guidelines are not changes to local orders, rules or regulations for businesses; they are guidelines for individual actions and behaviors.    Stage five recommendations include:  No gatherings with anyone outside of your household   Dining and shopping should be limited to essential trips  Avoid non-essential travel  Businesses are recommended to operate through contactless options (I.e. curbside, delivery)      "It is critically important that everyone still follow protective measures," said Stephanie Hayden-Howard, Austin Public Health Director. "Wearing a mask, washing your hands, watching your distance, and avoiding gatherings have been lifesaving measures throughout this pandemic. We will not be able to vaccinate our way out to flattening the curve right now, so we need to take it upon ourselves to protect our community to further drive down transmission."   COVID-19 hospital data for the 5-county Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) can be found on the Austin Public Health COVID-19 dashboards. Historical and raw data can be found on the COVID-19 Data Hub.   Questions about details of the Governor's Order or the Governor's announcement should be directed to the Governor's Office.   For more information about COVID-19, visit AustinTexas.gov/COVID19.