Monday, October 19, 2020

Austin Public Health Hosting Two Upcoming Flu Vaccine Events



For immediate release: October 19. 2020
Contact: Austin-Travis County Joint Information System, 512-974-0699, hsempio@austintexas.gov
 
Austin Public Health Hosting Two Upcoming Flu Vaccine Events

Oct. 24 and Nov. 7 events will serve as vaccine distribution practice for future COVID-19 vaccine 

Austin, Texas – Austin Public Health (APH) is hosting a walk-up flu shot event on Saturday, Oct. 24, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Southeast Branch Library, 5803 Nuckols Crossing Road. 

The event will distribute approximately 200 flu shots, which will be available on a first-come, first-served basis with priority for those who are uninsured. APH is encouraging those who have insurance to visit VaccineFinder.org to find a location near them offering flu shots. 

"This year it is more important than ever to get your flu shot," said APH Director Stephanie Hayden. "Getting a flu shot is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and our community." 

The Oct. 24 event will be the first of two flu shot events, with the second operating as a drive-thru event on Nov. 7, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Travis County Expo Center, which will distribute approximately 600 flu shots. Both events are serving as practice for distributing a future COVID-19 vaccine. 

"We have begun planning for the distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine and these flu shot events will help us understand the processes we need to have in place to ensure successful rapid distribution," said Dr. Mark Escott, Interim Austin-Travis County Health Authority.   

Everyone six months of age and older should get a flu shot every year. In addition to your annual flu shot, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe and healthy by following these simple steps: 

  • Wash your hands often 

  • Cough and sneeze into your elbow or tissue 

  • Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth 

  • Avoid others who are sick 

  • Stay home if you are sick 

  • Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects 

  • Wear a mask and social distance in public 

Due to space limitations at the Southeast Library, media will not be allowed on-site. ATXN will film b-roll and natural sound to send to media outlets following the event. Additional information about media participation at the Travis County Expo Center event will be sent closer to Nov. 7. 

COVID-19 Testing Site Closures 

The Southeast Branch Library COVID-19 neighborhood testing site will be closed on Saturday, Oct. 24 to accommodate the flu shot distribution. On Saturday, Nov. 7 all neighborhood testing sites will be closed (Givens Recreation Center, Little Walnut Creek Branch Library, Montopolis Recreation Center, and Southeast Branch Library). For both dates, drive-thru testing options will still be available. 

For additional flu information and updates, visit www.AustinTexas.gov/Flu.  
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