Austin-Travis County officials will likely again cancel large events like the South by Southwest series of festivals in early spring of 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic, according to the area’s health chief Wednesday.
Dr. Mark Escott, interim Austin-Travis County health authority, said even with plans to distribute coronavirus vaccinations by early next year, it’s likely that hosting large gatherings and festivals in early spring will still be too dangerous.
Escott during a media briefing on Wednesday said there may be hope for large gatherings again by April, May or June, but likely not in time for South by Southwest in March.
“I think it’s important to remember that large events were the first thing we turned off and will likely be the last thing we turn back on,” Escott said. “But, the situation — as the vaccine becomes available, as people get the vaccine and as we move more toward herd immunity — that risk for large surges will start to diminish.”
Escott said if Austin-Travis County residents want festivals to begin again next year, everyone should complete their two doses of vaccinations when they first become available to the general public.
“The better compliance we can get with vaccinations, then as we approach April, May, June, we will be more inclined to approve those larger events,” Escott said.
This is a developing story, check back for updates.
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