Parents Urged to Get Kids Vaccinated Ahead of School Year for Immunization Awareness Month

AUSTIN, Texas — August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and with school just around the corner, Austin Public Health is encouraging everyone, especially parents of children, to get themselves and their loved ones vaccinated and protect themselves from disease.

“As students head back to school and families begin gathering for the fall and holiday season, germs can spread more easily,” said Austin-Travis County Health Authority Dr. Desmar Walkes. “Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself, your family, and your community. Make sure you and your children are up to date on your recommended vaccines so everyone can stay healthy and ready to learn.”

In Texas, students heading to school are required to have certain vaccinations. A full list of the required vaccines can be found on the Texas Department of State Health Services’ website. 

These vaccines are widely available at doctors’ offices and pharmacies. They’re also available through Austin Public Health’s Shots for Tots and Big Shots clinics for uninsured children and adults and children with Medicaid. In August, Austin Public Health’s clinics have expanded Saturday appointments to make scheduling even easier for busy families. Call 512-972-5520 to schedule an appointment.

“Getting everything done for heading back to school takes time and effort, and we’re working to make sure getting vaccinated is an easy part of that process,” said Stephanie Helfman, Immunizations Manager for Austin Public Health. “Making healthy choices shouldn’t be a burden. Call one of our clinics and our staff will get you on track to being protected ahead of the school year.”

Austin Public Health will also be holding clinics throughout the community this month:

Saturday, Aug. 8

• Gus Garcia Recreation Center Children Vaccine Clinic
• 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• Gustavo “Gus” L. Garcia Recreation Center (1201 E Rundberg Ln, Austin, TX 78753)

Tuesday, Aug. 18

• El Buen Samaritano All Age Vaccine Clinic
• 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• El Buen Samaritano (7000 Woodhue Dr, Austin, TX 78745)

Friday, Aug. 21

• Mexican Consulate Adult Only Vaccine Clinic
• 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
• Mexican Consulate (5202 E Ben White Blvd #150, Austin, TX 78741)

Visit austintexas.gov/vaccines for more information about Austin Public Health’s vaccine clinics and resources.

The importance of vaccination can be seen as outbreaks of measles continue to be reported across the country. In 2025, Austin Public Health and other healthcare partners launched an online tool that models the spread of measles in communities, such as schools and childcare, with declining vaccination rates.

The tool can be accessed here: https://epiengage-measles.tacc.utexas.edu