Austin Public Health announces changes to vaccine operations

eams shifting from static clinics to strengthen emphasis on Mobile Vaccine Program

As the pandemic response evolves, Austin Public Health (APH) is shifting vaccine operations to a focused outreach approach. Moving away from mass vaccination operations allows APH to return to its core mission: serving as a safety net provider. 

The last APH vaccine clinic at Delco Activity Center is Friday, Feb. 25, and the last clinic at the Southeast Branch library is Saturday, Feb. 26. The vaccine clinics at Old Sims Elementary and Pfluger Hall remain open with their existing schedules.

APH teams will focus on the Mobile Vaccination Program (MVP), which offers COVID-19 vaccines at locations in otherwise hard-to-reach areas. Businesses, churches and other community groups can request MVP services through an online form.  

“Vaccines continue to be a vital part of our effort in the fight against COVID-19, especially as variants arise,” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County Health Authority. “Getting up to date with your vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others. Our MVP will make those vaccines available to those who have had a hard time getting the vaccines they need.” 

All APH vaccine clinics offer all three vaccines and their booster doses, no appointment, proof of residency or insurance is required. 

“This is an exciting opportunity to expand our outreach to communities where vaccination rates could use a boost,” said Adrienne Sturrup, Director of Austin Public Health. “Our Mobile Vaccination Program will work to make getting a vaccine as easy as possible for these groups. We’ll come to you--to your church, your job, your community center. We encourage everyone to take advantage of this program.”

Testing Information 

APH offers COVID-19 testing without appointment, although creating an account online in advance saves time. COVID-19 tests are free and require neither identification nor insurance. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 3-1-1 or 512-974-2000 or visit www.AustinTexas.gov/COVID19.      

To help reserve our emergency rooms for medical emergencies, people who are asymptomatic or experiencing minor symptoms may inquire about testing options by calling 2-1-1 or 877-541-7905, or by visiting 211texas.org. Please don’t call 9-1-1 for testing information.