14th Annual Boo the Flu Event to Offer Free Vaccines, Prizes and More

AUSTIN, Texas — Austin Public Health and Sendero Health Plans, in partnership with Travis County Precinct 4 Commissioner George Morales, invite everyone to the 14th annual free Boo the Flu event on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the George Morales Dove Springs Recreation Center (5801 Ainez Dr, Austin, TX 78744).   

As fall approaches, so does flu season. Boo the Flu is an opportunity for Austinites to get their annual flu shot while enjoying a fun fall festival that will include activities, music, prizes and more.

“Every fall we begin to see a rise in respiratory virus cases here in Austin, especially with the flu. This can pose a serious risk as kids are back in school and will be visiting relatives, some of whom may be at risk for severe complications,” said Austin-Travis County Health Authority Dr. Desmar Walkes. “Events like Boo the Flu are a way to make getting your shots fun for the whole family.”

Some people are at higher risk of developing serious symptoms from the flu, including adults 65 years and older, children under the age of 2, pregnant women, people with chronic conditions and more.

“The vaccine is updated each year to keep up with changes in the virus, so it’s important to get this year’s flu shot to protect yourself and those around you from becoming seriously ill or hospitalized,” said Dr. Lisa Doggett, Chief Medical Officer for Sendero Health Plans. “Everyone 6 months and older can get a flu vaccine. Bring your family and your loved ones so everyone can stay healthy throughout the fall and upcoming holidays.”

Along with free flu shots for uninsured/underinsured individuals, Boo the Flu will also include free vision screenings, a food distribution event, and connections to other community resources.

“Working alongside our community partners during Boo the Flu for over 10 years has put a spotlight on the critical need for proactive public health,” said Travis County Commissioner George Morales III. “These events do much more than provide seasonal immunizations, they bring healthcare into our community, strengthen trust and meet families exactly where they are. By transforming healthcare into an accessible and collaborative experience,  Boo the Flu helps build healthier, stronger, and safer communities."

Additional Austin Public Health Vaccine Clinics

In addition to Boo the Flu, flu and other vaccines are available for children with Medicaid and uninsured children and adults through Austin Public Health’s Shots for Tots and Big Shots clinics, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.

• Dove Springs Clinic: 5811 Palo Blanco Ln. Austin, TX 78744

• St. Johns Clinic: 7500 Blessing Ave. Austin, TX 78752

Please call 512-972-5520 to schedule an appointment.