Friday, December 10, 2021

Austin Public Health cleared to administer boosters to younger population

 

16- and-17-year-olds now eligible to receive Pfizer COVID-19 booster 

AUSTIN, TX - Austin Public Health (APH) is now administering Pfizer COVID-19 booster shots for everyone 16 years and older who is fully vaccinated following expanded eligibility authorization by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Booster doses are strongly encouraged as they provide additional protection from the virus and its variants. 

Pfizer doses, along with Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines, are available at APH locations as well as pharmacies, medical offices and community clinics throughout the Austin-Travis County metropolitan area. 

“Expanded booster eligibility allows us to protect more of the Austin-Travis County community from COVID-19,” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority. “Anyone who is 16 years or older and is eligible should get their booster as soon as possible.” 

Studies show the protection of the vaccine decreases over time and requires booster doses to help maintain maximum effectiveness. Individuals who received their second Pfizer dose at least six months ago are eligible.  

“This exciting news comes as we continue efforts to make booster doses widely available to the public,” said Adrienne Sturrup, APH Interim Director. “Our clinics are ready and able to give boosters to this newly eligible portion of our community.” 

COVID-19 Vaccine Resources  

COVID-19 vaccinations are free and require neither identification nor insurance. Residents can locate providers in their area using Vaccines.gov (Vacunas.gov in Spanish) or they can text their zip code to 438829 (822862 in Spanish) to find a nearby clinic.  
   
For COVID-19 information and updates, visit www.AustinTexas.gov/COVID19.