TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas — COVID cases and hospitalizations have pushed Travis County’s risk level to the medium category. 

A new subvariant, XBB 1.5, has been identified in the county. Recent data from the CDC shows that nearly one-third of current COVID cases in the United States are due to this new variant.

"This new subvariant is making its way into our community right as many people were indoors gathering with others during the cold and over the holidays. When mixed with a flu infection, the combination can cause serious illness for those at-risk such as children and seniors," said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County health authority. "It’s important that we do what we know works to minimize spread. Got symptoms? Get tested. Stay home if you don't feel well. Wear a mask if you can’t keep your distance to protect those who are at high risk. Most importantly, get up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines."

As of Friday, Jan. 6, there were 141 COVID cases and 10.3 hospitalizations per 100,000 people in Travis County

According to Austin Public Health, the new variant is resistant to existing COVID-19 treatments, such as monoclonal infusions. Bivalent boosters will still provide a level of protection and may protect you from hospitalization. Symptoms remain similar to other strains of coronavirus, including cough, exhaustion, fever, sore throat, nausea, diarrhea and headache.

Free mail-order rapid antigen tests are still available through the government. Each household is eligible for another round of four tests.