Last Updated March 11, 2020
We understand concerns about COVID-19/Coronavirus are top of mind, and we want to be transparent about what we are doing to prepare for another successful Austin Auto Show in a few weeks. We will update this page with any new information, so please feel free to visit should you have any questions.
We are planning to hold the Austin Auto Show as scheduled.
We are tracking global developments from the World Health Organization as well as local updates from the Austin area and will be following guidelines related to virus prevention and reducing risks.
We recommend all individuals follow the travel recommendations issued by the World Health Organization. We are expecting that much of the risk will be mitigated by the substantially ramped up controls put in place by various government organizations at airports and other checkpoints around the globe. That said, we as individuals must play our part; if you think you may be sick, we ask that you do not attend the show.
We are currently planning additional steps on-site to help ease your concerns, such as:
- Greater quantities of individual containers of hand sanitizer located near entrances and other high traffic areas throughout the show
- Signage throughout the event reminding people about preventative measures that help us all stay healthy
- Increased frequency of cleaning of restrooms, door handles, escaltors, hand rails, and other areas frequently touched
Additional details can be found in the Q&A after this update. Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have.
Despite the concerns about COVID-19, we are anticipating a great Auto Show in a few weeks, and we look forward to having you join us.
Additional Questions and Answers
What is being done to prepare for the show in regards to COVID-19?
We are closely monitoring the news and will follow any protocols that are provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). We encourage exhibitors and attendees to take common-sense precautions by using hand sanitizer and following these guidelines set by the CDC when they are onsite at the event.
What is the Austin Convention Center doing to prepare for guests in regards to COVID-19?
Below is a statement from the Austin Convention Center on COVID-19 regarding enhanced housekeeping protocols:
In light, of the growing concerns regarding the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), the Austin Convention Center Department (ACCD) has implemented enhanced housekeeping protocols to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. Visitors and employee safety is a primary concern, and assuring a healthy place to convene and work is our goal.
The department has placed more hand sanitizers and hand cleaning stations around the facility. ACCD has increased frequency of cleanliness for restrooms, escalators, door handles and other primary places of contact that are frequently touched. Signage has been posted encouraging visitors and staff to follow health suggestions.
To help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including flu and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-019), staff and visitors are encouraged to follow these guidelines set by the CDC when they are onsite at the event.
ACCD is in close contact with Austin Public Health (APH) who is monitoring the situation in coordination with Texas Department of State Health Services, the Centers for Disease Prevention & Control, local and regional public health and healthcare agencies.
What types of impact do you expect COVID-19 to have on the event?
We expect that some of our attendees and exhibitors may be unable to participate due to the travel restrictions.
We are confident that the show can be held safely based on current information, and we do not expect cancellations to have a substantial impact on the show experience.
What happens if someone feels ill at the event?
The facility has a first aid center and will call for an ambulance with paramedics to the Convention Center.