North Austin News

Austin Public Health has issued a set of guidelines to help residents enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season. The focus is on preventing foodborne illnesses, respiratory viruses, and impaired driving.

"The holidays are a time to enjoy the company of the people we love, not get sick or hurt," said Austin-Travis County Health Authority Dr. Desmar Walkes. "Everyone can help make the most of this holiday by knowing how to stop the spread of respiratory viruses, keep food safe during holiday parties and make a plan to avoid driving while intoxicated."

Foodborne illness occurs when individuals consume contaminated food. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in six Americans suffers from foodborne illness annually. In 2021, 475 cases were reported in Austin-Travis County alone.

To prevent such illnesses, it is recommended to cook food at proper temperatures, maintain appropriate storage conditions, and practice thorough hand-washing. Washing hands effectively removes bacteria and viruses that could cause sickness.

Respiratory viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV tend to spread more during colder months. Residents are encouraged to follow specific tips to minimize transmission.

Impaired driving remains a significant concern. In 2023, nearly 1,000 alcohol-related crashes occurred in Austin with 94 fatalities as reported by the Texas Department of Transportation. Avoiding driving under the influence can prevent accidents and legal consequences.