Editor's note: This post will be updated regularly with where eligible Lubbockites can get a COVID-19 vaccine. Find a map of providers and availability in each Texas county here.
Updated 12:30 p.m. April 16
Appointments are now available for the City of Lubbock's Health Department COVID-19 vaccine clinics for the week of April 5. Lubbock's Health Department received another 5,000 doses this week. Anyone over age 18 is now eligible to get a shot. Some walk-up appointments may be available each day. The vaccination hub will close on May 1. Lubbockites are urged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
Book an appointment online here by calling 806-775-2933. Those who have already gotten the first shot should get the second within 28 days. To sign up to get your second shot, visit mylubbock.info/dose2.
This week's clinics are:
- Saturday, April 17 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
United Supermarkets will host a vaccination clinic on Thursday from 2-7 p.m. at United Supermarkets Arena, 1709 Indiana Ave., in the City Bank Room, for anyone 18 and older. Their supply includes the Moderna vaccine. To book an appointment, visit this website.
Remember, several phamacies, clinics and doctors' offices also have vaccines.
CVS Pharmacies in Lubbock are slated to receive a limited batch of vaccines through a federal partnership. Sign up online, through the CVS Pharmacies app or by calling (800) 746-7287.
The United Family stores regularly receives a limited amount of doses. For information on their availability, visit their website.
Vaccine candidates are encouraged to contact their doctor or pharmacy about current availability and scheduling.
According to the latest data from Texas Health and Human Services, 40% of Lubbock County residents have received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 29% of people are fully-vaccinated.
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Here are some answers to vaccine questions we've heard a lot lately.
What’s the process for distributing the vaccine in Texas?
The state has created a plan that largely relies on private health care providers to do the legwork.
But it starts with the federal government. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention decides how many doses of the vaccine each state gets. Then the state takes that allotment and divvies it up. The Texas Department of State Health Services tells providers – mostly hospitals, pharmacies and doctors’ offices, at this point – how many doses they’ll get. The federal government then ships the vaccine directly to those providers. The providers distribute the vaccine according to priorities set by the state.
What about long-term care facilities?
Those facilities are being served by a dedicated program run by the federal government under a contract with some big chain pharmacies. As of March 9, City of Lubbock Public Health Director Katherine Wells says all nursing home populations have been vaccinated.
How does someone go about actually getting a vaccine right now?
The Lubbock Health Department expects to be able to open more clinics at the Civic Center soon. Once more vaccine supply is available, they hope to have the clinic open several days a week and plan to offer after-hours and possibly weekend appointments.
To sign up for an appointment through the city, visit mylubbock.info/covid19vaccine or call 806-775-2933.
Citizens can also call their doctor or pharmacy to check availability.
I got an appointment. What can I expect?
First - congratulations!
If it's through the health department, arrive no more than 15 minutes before your set time. You'll fill out a form and wait your turn. You'll get your shot. Then, you'll hang out for a few minutes to make sure there are no immediate physical reactions.
Most people have reported being through in 30 minutes to an hour.
What do I need to bring to the appointment?
For City of Lubbock appointments, no additional documents or identification are required. Be prepared to fill out a one-page form.
What's the cost?
No matter where you get it, the vaccine is free.
I live in another county. Where can I get the vaccine?
Gov. Greg Abbott announced the state will move towards regional "vaccination hubs," one location where thousands of people will get their shots.
The Health Department's clinic at the Civic Center has been designated as one of these hubs. So, people from surrounding counties can get vaccinated there if they get an appointment.
Also check with your area pharmacies and physicians.
I've had COVID-19. Should I get the vaccine?
Lubbock's Health Authority Dr. Ron Cook recently said at a news conference that people should wait at least 90 days after having COVID-19 before getting vaccinated.
After having COVID-19, your body will have antibodies that will offer some immunity. One thing scientists and physicians are still researching is how long that immunity lasts.
Do I still have to wear a mask after getting vaccinated?
Yes, for now at least. After both your first and second dose, you still need to practice the same prevention measures you have for months. Avoid large crowds, wear a mask and wash your hands frequently.
That'll be the recommendation until more people are vaccinated.
KUT's Matt Largey contributed to this article.
Have a news tip? Email Sarah Self-Walbrick at saselfwa@ttu.edu. Follow her reporting on Twitter @SarahFromTTUPM.
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