Austin Public Health is issuing the following statement related to active COVID-19 cases in Austin-Travis County:

Yesterday, Nov. 4, Austin Public Health (APH) reported 1,034 active cases of COVID-19 in Austin-Travis County. This is the highest report of active cases since Aug. 15, 2020. It is a gradual but significant increase in the number of cases, and more than half of those who tested positive through APH test sites have been adults between 20 and 39 years old.

These numbers indicate that those who recently participated in a gathering have had a higher risk of encountering someone infected with the virus. We encourage everyone who was involved in gatherings outside of their household this weekend (ex. Halloween parties) to get tested for COVID-19 this week. APH offers free COVID-19 testing: sign up at covid19.austintexas.gov or call 512-972-5560.

Individuals who have participated in crowded gatherings are also advised to stay at home to self-isolate, and they should not visit friends or loved ones who are considered high risk for COVID-19 complications. APH cannot prevent a spike in cases ahead of the winter holidays without the support and cooperation of our entire community. An increase in case numbers will lead to needless hospitalizations and deaths.

For more information about COVID-19, visit austintexas.gov/covid19.