• Austin Public Health has opened three neighborhood free testing sites for walk-in COVID-19 testing. They will serve historically underserved neighborhoods that have been heavily impacted by COVID-19. These sites are the Southeast Branch Library, the Little Walnut Creek Branch Library, and Givens Park. Unlike main APH drive-thru testing site, these neighborhood testing sites do not require an enclosed vehicle. Patients may arrive by foot, on a bicycle or motorcycle, or in a vehicle. To be tested at one of these sites, residents still need to take a self-assessment at AustinTexas.gov/COVID19 or by calling 512-972-5560.
• Austin City manager Spencer Cronck released the City’s proposed budget for 2020–2021 on July 13. To see proposed budget allocations, including those for Austin Public Health, go to austintexas.gov/budget. If you’d like assistance signing up to speak to City Council about the proposed budget at the July 23 or July 30 Budget and Tax Rate Public Hearing, call KOOP’s COVID-19 Community Outreach Team at 512-710-5353 or email covid19@koop.org.
• Numbers of COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and deaths continue to rise in central Texas. Infected people who do not feel sick can spread the virus to others who will get very sick. KOOP reminds listeners to wear masks in public; avoid touching your face, ears, nose, or mouth; wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds; avoid gathering in groups; and avoid nonessential tasks in public. We grieve with the community in response to lives changed and lives lost due to COVID-19.
If you have a question for KOOP about COVID-19, leave a message for us at 512-710-5353 or covid19@koop.org. We will respond to questions and share other community updates weekly on Reflections of Community Outreach or the Community Pilot Show.