Austin City Leaders Share COVID-19 Recommendations for Local Businesses
On Wednesday, Austin and Travis County officials including Mayor Steve Adler, Judge Andy Brown, and Dr. Desmar Walkes Medical Director/Health Authority spoke remotely with local business leaders concerning COVID-19.
Dr. Walkes stated there had been a surge of cases since shortly after July 4th. She explained there were currently over 500 new cases, and over 400 of those are in hospitals with 100 people on ventilators. Of these hospitalizations 85% to 90% are unvaccinated.
Dr. Walkes stated directly that vaccines prevent ICU stays and death, and also advocated masking based on studies showing they help prevent spread.
Mayor Adler stated it was frustrating moment for everyone, but particularly ICU doctors and nurses. He noted many EMS medics are having trouble taking patients to hospitals due to the over capacity of COVID patients. He said by masking “we have saved 1,000 lives.”
Acknowledging the city did not want to issue a mask or vaccine mandate in order (which could provoke litigation from the state), the mayor asked business owners to require customers and employees to wear masks. Judge Brown echoed Mayor Adler, and underscored the need to mask-up, limit in person interactions, and get vaccinated. He also asked the business owners and their employees to wear masks.
Questions included:
“Will the city or county invest in a program for free PPE or rapid tests for guests and staff?”
Dr. Walkes stated yes, and that there were sites in the city to get tested and receive vaccines and to call 311 for more information.
“What is the risk assessment for businesses that choose to enforce masks or even proof of vaccination? What is the constitutional reality that these businesses could be penalized, given the Governor’s decree?
Dr. Walkes said her understanding is that businesses have the right to recommend and ask customers to wear masks.
“Considering low ICU bed availability, is the City planning to create a remote COVID-19 treatment site?”
Dr. Walkes stated the city is constantly assessing the COVID situation. She added resources set up in 2020 were still intact, so standing up of an alternate care site at this point was not needed.
“Can you please clarify what may change when we move to Stage 5?”
Dr. Walkes stated the city will be asking vaccinated and unvaccinated people to wear masks. As well as asking businesses to offer curbside options and be well ventilated.
”Moving past the Delta variant, there are other variants perhaps having even higher viral loads. Is the City prepared for this?”
Dr. Walkes stated the city was always preparing for these sort of events, but ultimately, a vaccination rate of 85% (herd immunity) would be most effective in limiting spread.
During closing remarks Mayor Alder stated we wouldn't be here if everyone was vaccinated. Judge Brown asked the business owners for their ideas to get people masked, and encouraged them to email him.
Dr. Walkes stated she was committed to keeping the economy going and keeping people safe. She again asked the business owners to help get their employees vaccinated and wearing masks.
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