Tots step up to get their shots

Following the CDC approval of Pfizer’s Covid vaccine for children ages 5-11, Austin Public Health is moving rapidly to roll out vaccine distribution for children. Vaccines are available by appointment this week at the health department’s two Shots for Tots clinics, which provide Covid and flu shots for children who are uninsured or are Medicaid recipients. Uninsured adults may also receive vaccines and no one is refused service if they are unable to pay. Call 512-972-5520 for an appointment. Vaccinations will also be available starting Tuesday, Nov. 9, at the walk-in clinic at Delco Activity Center and Wednesday, Nov. 10 at Old Sims Elementary. No appointment is required for walk-up sites. These clinics will be expanded the following week to several area schools where access to vaccination has been limited. “Vaccinations are the key to returning children to normalcy,” says Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin-Travis County health authority. “This is also very important for families in multi-generational households. We hope that families make the decision to vaccinate as many of their loved ones as possible to protect their home and community.”