Health officials in Travis County talk about how you can protect vulnerable populations from COVID-19

AUSTIN, Texas - Austin-Travis County Interim Health Authority Dr. Mark Escott is providing an update on protecting vulnerable populations from COVID-19. 

Dr. Escott is holding a brief press conference outside the Austin Public Health Department Operations Center in South Austin around 3 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11.  The press conference is expected to be about preventative measures against COVID-19 coronavirus in order to contain the spread of the disease. 

FOX 7 Discussion: What is the coronavirus?

The Texas Department of State Health Services Commissioner John Hellerstedt and Gov. Greg Abbott are also urging Texans to continue taking preventative measures against COVID-19 coronavirus in order to contain the spread of the disease.

DSHS always recommends these everyday actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Is it the flu, a cold or COVID-19? Different viruses present similar symptoms

Expressing alarm both about mounting infections and slow government responses, the World Health Organization declared Wednesday that the global coronavirus crisis is now a pandemic but also said it's not too late for countries to act.

CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE