City of Austin

AUSTIN, Texas - Austin Public Health continues to follow long-standing, evidence-based vaccine recommendations and reminds the community that it is not too late to get a flu vaccine this season. Local hospital visits of people with influenza-like symptoms mirror state and national trends.

Vaccines remain one of the most effective tools to protect children, adults and vulnerable community members from serious illness. Austin Public Health recommends routine vaccinations for all ages, including influenza, RSV, measles, DTaP, HPV and other preventable diseases, consistent with decades of peer-reviewed science and public health practice.

“Families deserve clear and consistent guidance,” said Dr. Desmar Walkes, Austin–Travis County Health Authority. “Our recommendations come from decades of scientific research. We regularly review new studies, and the science continues to support our current guidance.”

Austin Public Health works closely with national partners, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and carefully reviews public-facing guidance before sharing it locally. The department relies on trusted surveillance data, peer-reviewed research and clinical expertise to guide decisions that protect the health of our community.

“Austin families should feel confident that their health comes first,” said Austin Mayor Kirk Watson. “We can trust our local health professionals. They provide clear, evidence-based guidance by carefully cross-referencing local data with several national and global health agencies, so parents can make informed decisions for their children.”

Why Vaccines Still Matter

Lower vaccination coverage increases the risk of viruses circulating in the community. This can lead to higher rates of illnesses such as influenza, RSV, measles and meningitis. Vaccination also plays a critical role in protecting people who are immunocompromised or unable to receive certain vaccines themselves.

“Protecting public health is up to all of us,” said Travis County Judge Andy Brown. “Travis County relies on our local public health experts to carefully review local data alongside scientific guidance so families can make informed choices.”

Your local health experts emphasize that receiving recommended vaccines remains safe and effective, and insurance coverage for routine childhood and adult vaccines continues through both private and federal insurance programs.

Austin Public Health Vaccine Guidance and Resources

Children and Teens (0–18 years)

• Austin Public Health provides free or low-cost vaccines for children who are uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in Medicaid, including MMR, polio, varicella, hepatitis and more.
• Texas school entry requirements still apply, including required immunizations such as MMR, DTaP and polio. Families are encouraged to check immunization status before the school year begins.
• Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine are recommended for children, with clinics available through Austin Public Health.

Adults (19 years and older)

• Annual flu vaccination is recommended for all adults to reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization.
• Tdap vaccination is recommended during each pregnancy, and a tetanus and diphtheria booster is needed every 10 years for adults.
• COVID-19 vaccines remain available for individuals six months and older.
• RSV vaccination is recommended for pregnant individuals during RSV season.

Vaccine Resources

Vaccines for COVID-19, flu and RSV are available at pharmacies and doctors’ offices. Vaccines are also available at Austin Public Health’s Shots for Tots and Big Shots clinics.