Please visit our YouTube Channel to see the video.
Por favor, visite el canal de YouTube de People’s para ver el video.

A significant measles outbreak is currently affecting parts of Texas, particularly in the West Texas and southern plains regions. As cases rise, many individuals are understandably asking: Am I protected?

To help answer this important question, Dr. Louis Appel, Director of Pediatrics at People’s Community Clinic, offers expert guidance on protecting yourself and your loved ones during this outbreak. Here’s what you need to know.

Who Needs the Measles Vaccine?
If you were born before 1957, it’s generally assumed you’re immune to measles because of natural exposure during that time period. However, if you were born in 1957 or later, you should be vaccinated.

Children should receive two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine—first at 12–15 months old and again at 4–6 years old. Adults should ensure they’ve had at least one dose and in some cases, two.

Not Sure About Your Vaccination Status?
If you’re uncertain whether you’ve been vaccinated, check your medical records or speak with your healthcare provider. They can help assess your history and determine the best course of action. Sometimes, a blood test can check for immunity, or you can get vaccinated—an extra dose won’t cause harm.

How Does Measles Spread—and What Are the Symptoms?
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses. It spreads through airborne respiratory droplets and can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left a room. That means you don’t need to have direct contact to catch it.

Early symptoms include:

• Fever

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Conjunctivitis (red or pink eye)

• A rash that typically appears a few days later

Importantly, people with measles are contagious up to four days before the rash appears and four days after—making it easy for the virus to spread before it’s even recognized.

What Should You Do if You Suspect Measles?
Call your healthcare provider before heading to a clinic or emergency room if you believe you may have measles. They may provide special instructions to avoid exposing others, such as waiting outside or entering through a separate entrance.

Is the Vaccine Safe and Effective?
Yes. The MMR vaccine is highly effective—about 93% after the first dose and 97% after the second. Like all medical treatments, it can cause mild side effects (such as fever or soreness at the injection site), but serious reactions are rare.

Concerns about a connection between the MMR vaccine and autism have been thoroughly debunked. Extensive studies have found no link between the vaccine and autism.

Why Vaccination Matters
While most people recover from measles, the illness can lead to serious complications, especially in young children. These include ear infections, pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and, in rare cases, death. The vaccine is our best defense.

Stay informed and protected.

As this outbreak unfolds, ensuring your vaccination status is current is more important than ever. Your healthcare provider is your best resource if you’re unsure or have questions. You can also leave your questions in the comments; we’ll do our best to help.

Vaccination isn’t just about personal protection—it’s about community health. Don’t wait. Take action today.

People’s Community Clinic is here to support you with accurate information and trusted care. Contact 512.478.4939 for more information.

The post Measles Outbreak in Texas: What You Need to Know to Stay Protected appeared first on People's Community Clinic.

Hosted by People’s Community Clinic at the Four Seasons Hotel on May 12, 2025, this annual luncheon will raise essential funds for patient services and clinic operations.

Honoring a Leader in Public Health

This year’s Neal Kocurek Award for Health Advocacy will be presented to Dr. Jewel Mullen, a physician, epidemiologist, and champion for expanding healthcare access. People’s Community Clinic is proud to celebrate her dedication to advancing public health.

A Conversation on Healthcare Today

The event will also feature an engaging discussion between two thought leaders:

• Dr. Sharon Malone, a board-certified OBGYN, bestselling author, and advocate for women’s health
• Evan Smith, award-winning journalist and co-founder of The Texas Tribune

Their conversation will explore the challenges facing healthcare today and innovative solutions that could shape the future. From barriers to access to advancements in medicine, this discussion will highlight key issues that impact individuals and communities alike.

Make a Difference – Become a Sponsor

Sponsoring this event means investing in lifesaving healthcare for Central Texans. Sponsorships help ensure that People’s Community Clinic can continue to provide medical care to those who need it most. Sponsors receive exclusive benefits, including recognition at the luncheon and in marketing materials.

Learn more about Sponsorships here: 2025LuncheonSponsorshipOpportunities – People’s Community Clinic or contact Joy Authur at JoyA@austinpcc.org or 512.684.1722.

Learn more about the event and purchase tickets here. 2025 There’s No Such Thing as a Free Lunch – People’s Community Clinic People’s Community Clinic

Mark your calendar for May 12 and be part of the impact!

The post 29th Annual “There’s No Such Thing as a Free Lunch” – A Luncheon with Impact appeared first on People's Community Clinic.

Continuing education credits will be available for social workers (SW), licensed professional counselors (LPC), certified health educators (CPE), community health workers (CHW), certified nurse educators (CNE), and continuing medical education (CME) (AMA PRA Category 1 Credit). Additionally, ACC students may receive a $50 stipend for attending on a first-come first-served basis.

The post 2025 Adolescent Health Symposium appeared first on People's Community Clinic.

Proceeds support essential patient services. Sponsorships available. 

The post 2025 There’s No Such Thing as a Free Lunch Annual Luncheon appeared first on People's Community Clinic.

Outdoor Adventure & Traditional Summer Camps

Summer Playgrounds Program (Ages 5–12) – City of Austin
Summer Playgrounds Program | AustinTexas.gov

This free, drop-in program offers supervised outdoor activities such as sports, arts and crafts, games, and team-building exercises. Children can enjoy a fun, active summer in a safe and supportive environment.

Dates: June 10 – August 2, 2024 (Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

Locations: Various Austin parks (Chestnut Pocket Park, James A. Garrison District Park, Mary Moore Searight Metropolitan Park, Patterson Neighborhood Park, Roy G. Guerrero Metropolitan Park, Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park)

Contact: 512-974-3922 | Email: SummerPlaygroundsProgram@austintexas.gov

No advanced registration is required; sign up on-site on the first day of attendance.

Sunshine Camps at Zilker Park & Lake Travis (Ages 8–15)

This overnight camp experience provides outdoor adventures like hiking, swimming, canoeing, and team-building activities. Meals and transportation are included. Campers must qualify for the Texas public school free and reduced lunch program to attend.

Sessions:

Session 1: June 9 – 18

Session 2: June 23 – July 2

Session 3: July 14 – 23 (7-day option for 8-9-year-olds: July 14-20)

Session 4: July 28 – August 6

Locations: Ages 8-11 at Zilker Park; Ages 12-15 at Lake Travis

Contact: 512.472.8107 | Email: info@sunshinecamps.org

Website: www.sunshinecamps.org

Check your eligibility:

Volunteers and donations are always welcome!

The Rosendin Foundation Camp Build

The Rosendin Foundation’s Camp Build is a free day camp for 6th–8th graders to explore construction skills through hands-on projects like building lamps and doghouses for donation. Campers learn woodworking, soldering, roofing, and more while safely using tools and discovering career opportunities in the trades. Sponsorships are available! Sign up today.

Dates: June 2 – 6, 2025

Location: Junior Electric Training Alliance

Website: TRF Camp Build Austin

Camp Glimmer (Ages 7–12)

A free summer camp for disadvantaged youth, Camp Glimmer offers kids the chance to experience outdoor activities, build confidence, and have fun. Participation is by invitation only through nonprofit organizations supported by A Glimmer of Hope Austin.

Dates: Mid-June to early August

Location: Candlelight Ranch, Marble Falls, TX

Contact: austin@glimmer.org

Website: www.glimmeraustin.org

The post Free Summer Opportunities for Kids and Teens in 2025 appeared first on People's Community Clinic.

Dr. Celia Neavel: 2024 Texas Family Physician of the Year

Dr. Celia Neavel has been named 2024 Texas Family Physician of the Year by the Texas Academy of Family Physicians, an honor that recognizes outstanding dedication to patient care and family medicine. She founded the Center for Adolescent Health in 1993 and leads the GOALS program, which supports students with developmental and behavioral health needs. Her impact continues to shape healthcare for young people across Texas.

Dr. Neavel was also featured in Austin Monthly’s 2024 Top Doctors issue, along with three other exceptional People’s Community Clinic physicians.

Austin Monthly’s Top Doctors

Dr. Judy Lu Kim is recognized for her expertise in family medicine.

Dr. Sarah Buttrey is a family physician with over 20 years of experience, fluent in Spanish, and dedicated to serving Austin’s diverse community.

Dr. Najiba Keshwani, a pediatrician specializing in adolescent health, is passionate about mental and sexual health advocacy and guiding teens through the transition to adulthood.

A Commitment to Community Health

These recognitions highlight People’s Community Clinic physicians’ unwavering dedication, skill, and compassion. Their commitment ensures that patients receive high-quality, patient-centered care, strengthening the community’s health by delivering care to every person with dignity and respect

Need a trusted doctor? Call 512.478.4939 or visit www.austinpcc.org to learn more.

The post People’s Community Clinic Physicians Recognized as Top Doctors appeared first on People's Community Clinic.

Turning 65 is a wonderful time of life but it does come with big decisions about healthcare. Consistency in care is essential, especially for older adults. People’s Community Clinic (People’s) is where at any age patients can continue seeing the doctors they know and trust.

Making Medicare Simple

People’s recommends that you visit with a financial counselor about Medicare before you turn 65. Navigating Medicare can be overwhelming, but help is available. People’s financial counselors assist patients by:

Explaining Medicare options

Comparing plans to find the best fit

Helping patients enroll with confidence

Identifying programs that can save money

Comprehensive Care for Your Long-Term Health at People’s

At People’s, care goes beyond doctor visits. The clinic prioritizes preventive services and long-term wellness, offering:

Routine check-ups and screenings to catch potential health concerns early.

Chronic disease management for conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

Advance care planning to ensure healthcare wishes are respected.

Additionally, People’s connects patients with social support services, community programs, and transportation assistance, ensuring healthcare and wrap-around services are accessible.

As the population ages, access to compassionate, high-quality healthcare is vital. People’s Community Clinic is dedicated to providing personalized, patient-centered care for older adults, allowing them to continue seeing the doctors they trust. Whether navigating Medicare options, managing a health condition, or prioritizing preventive care, People’s ensures patients receive the support and guidance they need at every stage of their journey.

What’s Next?

People’s recommends that you visit with a financial counselor about Medicare before you turn 65 so you have the information you need to make the best decision for your care.  If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment with one of our financial counselors, please don’t hesitate to call us at 512.478.4939.

We’re here to help you navigate the Medicare process and ensure you have the support you need at every stage of your healthcare journey.

The post Medicare at People’s Community Clinic appeared first on People's Community Clinic.

Join us for a fantastic day at our Fall Festival on Saturday, November 16th, from 9AM to 12PM at People’s Community Clinic, 1101 Camino La Costa.  This community-centered event is packed with activities, health resources, and family fun.

Patients can get their COVID and flu vaccines (call 512.478.4939 to reserve a spot!); learn about clinic services; connect with community partners; enjoy kids’ entertainment; and even take home a Thanksgiving dinner (while supplies last).

Plus, explore events like the Dia de los Muertos celebrations happening around town.

Learn more about why flu and COVID vaccines are so important for your family. Let’s prioritize our health and stay connected this season!

View the full newsletter here. 

The post 🍁 Celebrate Fall with People’s Community Clinic! appeared first on People's Community Clinic.

Join People’s Collective for a Festive Cocktail & Mocktail-Making Party!

The post Sip, Shake & Celebrate: A Mixology Extravaganza! appeared first on People's Community Clinic.

Join us on October 25th from 5:30 – 7:00PM at Manor Mustang Health Clinic for an evening walk-through the clinic and a discussion to help make the clinic more youth-friendly.

Plus, you’ll get dinner and a goodie bag just for participating!

Let’s work together to create a space that benefits the future generation. Click button below to register. See you there!

The post Youth Advisory Council Manor Mustang Health Center Walk-through appeared first on People's Community Clinic.