City, county leaders stress caution to keep Covid numbers down through SXSW

AUSTIN -- The city and organizers of the South by Southwest festival have asked attendees of credentialed and free events to have proof of vaccination or a recent negative Covid-19 test if they plan on participating in this year’s event.

Local leaders and SXSW officials spoke at a press conference Monday, explaining that Travis County’s vaccination rate, which is above 70 percent, has helped to limit the impacts of the latest wave of infections brought on by the omicron variant of the virus. The county recently dropped to Stage 2 of the Covid risk-based guidelines, removing the need for masks in all situations for those who are vaccinated.

Even under those guidelines, Travis County Judge Andy Brown supported the recommendation that festival attendees wear masks indoors, especially at concerts with closely packed crowds.

“We’re very eager to enjoy the festivities and going to local businesses and trying to get a table in restaurants while everyone is here for South By. And we’re super eager to celebrate the artists and the venues that make spring festival season fun,” he said. “Today marks the beginning of a path forward from the virus while also being able to gather and celebrate the experiences that make this community special.”

Read more: https://www.austinmonitor.com/stories/2022/03/city-county-leaders-stress-caution-to-keep-covid-numbers-down-through-sxsw/