TEXAS, USA — Editor's note: This blog is no longer being updated. Click here for Friday's blog.
KVUE is keeping you updated with the latest coronavirus and COVID-19 news in the Austin area.
Scroll down for the top headlines and latest updates in KVUE's Feb. 17 and Feb. 18 live blog.
COVID-19 numbers:
- Texas: More than 2.2 million cases have been reported in the state, and more than 40,600 people in Texas have died, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.
- Central Texas counties:
- Travis County: At least 73,538 cases have been reported and at least 710 people have died. At least 69,460 people have recovered from the virus.
- Hays County: At least 15,837 confirmed cases have been reported and at least 202 people have died. At least 14,238 people have recovered from the virus.
- Williamson County: At least 34,527 cases have been reported in the county and at least 362 people have died. At least 33,250 people have recovered from the virus.
For a look at COVID-19 data across all of the state's counties, click here.
GRAPHS: Coronavirus data Feb. 10
Updates:
11:45 p.m. – If you received your first vaccine at San Marcos High on Jan. 25 or Jan. 26, your second-dose appointment is rescheduled to Thursday, Feb. 25 at San Marcos High, same time as your first appointment.
4:20 p.m. – Austin Public Health testing and vaccination sites will remain closed on Friday, Feb. 19 due to weather conditions. The sites have been closed since Saturday, Feb. 12.
“We know these are challenging times as our staff, their families, and our entire community are grappling with issues caused by the weather,” said APH Director Stephanie Hayden-Howard. “We assure you that as soon as we can safely give the vaccine again, we will notify the public.”
Those with vaccine appointments will receive a cancellation text or email, but it is unknown when vaccine operations will resume.
“We greatly appreciate the community’s patience as we work through these unprecedented times,” said Dr. Mark Escott, Interim Austin-Travis County Health Authority. “While there may be several days between the time your appointment is canceled and your new appointment information is sent, it is important to remember that there is flexibility allowed between doses without losing effectiveness.”
Dr. Escott reiterated: “Your body works with the vaccine to make the first dose stronger over time. The second dose is a booster and a delay will not diminish its efficacy.”
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