Staff Report
SAN MARCOS — Regional public health agencies across Central Texas have expanded coordination with regional, state and federal partners, as the region prepares to welcome an increase in visitors associated with the FIFA World Cup. Enhanced monitoring and collaboration help identify potential health concerns early and support a rapid, coordinated response, helping protect the health and safety of both residents and visitors, according to a news release.
Participating agencies include: Austin Public Health, Bastrop County Public Health Department, Bell County Public Health District, Hays County Health Department, Waco-McLennan County Public Health District and Williamson County and Cities Health District.
Summer in Central Texas brings more than sunshine and outdoor activities. It also brings seasonal health risks that public health agencies monitor closely, continued the release. Warmer temperatures, increased mosquito activity, outdoor dining and large community events can contribute to heat-related illnesses, mosquito-borne diseases and foodborne illness outbreaks. Through ongoing surveillance, public education, prevention efforts and community partnerships, public health officials work to reduce these risks and protect community health.
Regional public health officials encourage everyone to take simple precautions, while enjoying outdoor summer activities and community events.
"Over the next month, we will welcome fans from around the world for an exciting time, whether that is attending watch parties, riding down IH-35 and shopping at the outlets, experiencing our beautiful parks or exploring the many other gifts our Hays County community has to offer," said Matthew Gonzales, Hays County Health Department director. "Having an understanding and awareness of seasonal health risks helps people set themselves up to make the safest and healthiest choices to protect themselves and their loved ones. With just a few simple steps, everyone can enjoy summer activities in the safest way possible.”
Play it smart in the Texas heat
Heat and humidity can create dangerous conditions during the summer months and quickly lead to serious heat-related illnesses, especially for young children, older adults, outdoor workers, athletes and those without reliable air conditioning.
Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including:
• Heavy sweating
• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea
• Cool, clammy skin
• Muscle cramps
Without treatment, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening medical emergency. Signs of heat stroke include confusion, loss of consciousness, and a body temperature of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Call 911 immediately, if it is suspected that someone is experiencing heat stroke.
Taking a few simple precautions can help reduce the risk of heat-related illness while enjoying outdoor activities and summer events:
• Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol.
• Limit outdoor activity: Spend time indoors or in air-conditioned spaces during the hottest parts of the day.
• Dress for the heat: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a hat when outdoors.
• Check on friends and neighbors: Make sure older adults and others without reliable air conditioning stay cool and safe.
For more information, visit www.ready.gov/heat.
Keep mosquitoes on the sidelines
These precautions can help reduce mosquito bites and lower the risk of mosquito-borne diseases. Follow the 3 Ds of mosquito safety:
• Drain standing water in flowerpots, pet dishes, and clogged gutters, so mosquitoes do not have a place to breed. Treat water that cannot be drained.
• Use EPA-registered insect repellent.
• Dress in long sleeves and pants when spending time outdoors.
For more information, visit www.texasmosquito.org/mosquitoes-in-texas.
Food safety is the winning strategy
Warm summer temperatures can create ideal conditions for harmful bacteria to grow, increasing the risk of foodborne illness:
• Clean hands, utensils and cooking surfaces often.
• Separate produce, meat, poultry, seafood and eggs during preparation.
• Cook food to the proper temperature using a food thermometer.
• Chill perishable foods within two hours.
For more information, visit www.foodsafety.gov.
Make staying healthy the goal
Large gatherings with people from across the world can bring infectious diseases that communities are not normally exposed to or may have less protection against. Protect oneself and community members by:
Watching for signs of common infectious illnesses, including:
• Fever or chills
• Cough or sore throat
• Runny nose
• Fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• New rash
If feeling sick, take action to decrease the chance of spreading illness to others:
• Stay home or rest at home or in lodging if possible.
• Avoid close contact with others until symptoms get better.
• Get medical help if symptoms get worse or don’t go away.
Taking these precautions can help keep the community safer, while enjoying summer events and welcoming visitors from around the world:
• Keep a distance if feeling sick: Avoid crowded indoor spaces when sick.
• Wash hands or use hand sanitizer: Keep hands clean to help prevent the spread of germs that cause illness.
• Practice respiratory etiquette: Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow.
• Stay up-to-date on vaccinations: Make sure routine and travel‑related vaccines are current.
For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/prevention/index.html
Local public health's game plan
An anticipated influx of visitors has prompted epidemiologists to enhance surveillance efforts and strengthen coordination with healthcare providers and public health partners. Ongoing communication and sharing information with regional, state and federal agencies help track emerging health trends and identify potential concerns early.
Key preparedness activities include:
• Reviewing response plans and operational procedures
• Increasing disease surveillance and monitoring
• Investigating travel-associated illnesses and outbreak clusters
• Monitoring food service operations and public venues
• Sharing information with healthcare providers and public health partners
"We want all of our Hays County residents and visitors to enjoy a fun and healthy summer during such an exciting time," said Kate Esqueda, Community Health Services manager and public information officer for the Hays County Health Department. "Whether you're exploring the region, attending community events or enjoying our beautiful natural areas, a little preparation before you are on the go can make a huge difference. Simple steps can help reduce health risks to keep you, your family and the overall community safe all season long."
Protecting public health is a shared responsibility. Public health officials encourage residents and visitors to stay informed and take simple steps to protect their health. Knowledge and awareness of seasonal health risks can help individuals and families make informed decisions that support their well-being. Staying hydrated, preventing mosquito bites, practicing food safety and recognizing the signs of illness can help reduce health risks and contribute to a safe and healthy community.
Local public health information can be found at www.hayscountytx.gov/health-department.
