AUSTIN, Texas — KVUE is keeping you updated with the latest coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, news in the Austin area.
Scroll down for the top headlines and latest updates in KVUE's Aug. 8 live blog.
COVID-19 numbers:
- Texas: More than 470,000 cases have been reported in the state, and more than 8,000 people in Texas have died, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.
- Central Texas counties:
- Travis County: Over 22,600 cases have been reported and at least 298 people have died. At least 21,145 people have recovered from the virus.
- Hays County: More than 5,000 confirmed cases have been reported and at least 34 people have died. At least 2,175 people have recovered from the virus.
- Williamson County: More than 6,200 cases have been reported in the county and at least 90 people have died. More than 5,500 people have recovered from the virus.
GRAPHS: Coronavirus data Aug. 6
Updates:
6 p.m. – Travis County reported another three deaths from COVID-19 on Saturday, as well as 122 new confirmed cases, bringing the total to 22,602 cases and 298 deaths. At least 21,145 people have recovered from the virus.
Travis County currently has 275 people hospitalized from the coronavirus, with 96 in the ICU and 75 on ventilators.
2 p.m. – Gov. Greg Abbott extends the disaster declaration for all Texas counties. The declaration, originally issued on March 13, provides the State with a variety of resources to serve Texans in the continued fight against COVID-19.
"Renewing this disaster declaration will provide communities with the resources they need to respond to COVID-19," Abbott said. "I urge Texans to remain vigilant in our fight against this virus. Everyone must do their part to slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing a mask, practicing social distancing and washing your hands frequently and thoroughly. We will overcome this challenge by working together."
10:45 a.m. – Protesters have gathered outside the Texas State Capitol, calling on Gov. Greg Abbott to loosen regulations on visitation at long-term care facilities. They want essential family caregivers to be admitted with the same precautions as non-medical staff members.
10 a.m. – Texas State University is holding its virtual commencement ceremony for spring 2020 graduates. You can watch the full ceremony live below:
9 a.m. – Today is distribution day for KVUE and H-E-B's 31st annual "For the Children School Supplies Drive" – however, the drive continues. You can still donate until Aug. 18. Learn more in the video below:
8:30 a.m. – The Bull Creek and Barton Creek greenbelts will be open today for the first time since Fourth of July weekend – but expect some changes.
If you want to go to the Barton Creek greenbelt anytime between now and Sunday, you'll have to reserve a spot with the Parks and Recreation Department. At the Bull Creek greenbelt, you'll be reminded to socially distance, wear a mask and stay six feet away from others when possible.
8 a.m. – The Central Texas Food Bank is holding a distribution event until 11 a.m. The event is being held at Nelson Field at 7105 Berkman Drive. When you arrive, just pop your trunk and volunteers will load the boxes for you.
MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE: