Halloween Parties Blamed For Coronavirus Spike In Austin

AUSTIN, TX — A significant increase in local cases of the coronavirus — more than 1,030 new diagnoses, the highest since mid-August — has prompted a health district officials to ask residents who may have attended recent Halloween-related parties to get tested for the virus.

Of particular concern is that more than half of the illness spike represents cases among young people — between 20 t0 39 years old, according to health officials — who are typically not the most susceptible population segment for catching the virus.

Austin Public Health on Wednesday (Nov. 4) reported 1,034 active cases of COVID-19 in Austin-Travis County, officials said. "This is the highest report of active cases since Aug. 15, 2020," officials added in an advisory. "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."

Related story: Coronavirus Spikes, Hospitalizations Worry Texas Health Officials

The numbers indicate that residents participated in gatherings have had a higher risk of encountering someone infected with the virus, officials added. "We encourage everyone who was involved in gatherings outside of their household this weekend to get tested for COVID-19 this week," officials added, referencing Halloween parties as a possible source of contagion.

. Austin Public Health offers free COVID-19 testing for those who sign up at covid19.austintexas.gov. Those interested also can 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," Austin Public Health officials wrote. "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 the COVID-19 Information page at the City of Austin website.

The local spike parallels upticks seen statewide. On Wednesday, Texas health district officials reported 9,048 new cases of the coronavirus with 126 new deaths — prompting concern among health officials about fatality spikes and rising hospitalizations.

The latest data were input by Texas Department of State Health Services officials. On Twitter, health officials expressed concern over a seven-day spike in new cases and hospitalizations, noting that capacity at medical facilities is now a growing concern.

According to the agency, Texas averaged in the last seven days:

• 6,223 new cases per day;
• 5,740 current hospitalizations; and
• 89 new fatalities reported per day.

To see the full range of coronavirus data locally, visit the Austin Public Health statistical dashboard. For statewide data, visit the dashboard maintained by the Texas Department of State Health Services.