Author: Veronica de la Rosa

As Chief Medical Officer at People’s Community Clinic, Dr. Dasgupta reminds patients and families that vaccines are one of the best ways to stay healthy and prevent serious illness. “Vaccines protect not only you but also the people around you,” she says. “They are a simple, safe way to stay well all year long.”

For Adults

Flu season lasts from September to March. Everyone who is at least 6 months old should get a flu shot every year. Adults 65 and older can ask their provider about a high-dose flu vaccine for added protection.

Adults 50 and older should get the shingles vaccine, even if they have already had shingles. This vaccine is given in two doses, about two months apart. Other important vaccines for adults include pneumonia and RSV vaccines, especially for people over 50 or those with ongoing health issues.

Most vaccines can be given during a regular checkup. Patients can also make a quick appointment just for vaccines if they prefer.

For Children and Teens

Vaccines are very important for children because they protect against serious diseases like measles and whooping cough. “When more children are vaccinated, we see fewer outbreaks in our community,” she explains.

If a child has missed some vaccines, People’s providers can help families catch up on their schedule. Teens heading to college should also make sure they’ve received the meningitis and MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccines, which many schools require.

For Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Vaccines are safe and important during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Expectant parents are encouraged to ask about the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough) and flu vaccines, which protect both parent and baby.

Common Concerns

It’s normal to feel a bit sore or tired after a shot. This is a sign your body is building protection. The flu shot cannot cause the flu.

Providers at People’s encourage all patients to talk about vaccines at their next visit or call to set up a quick vaccine appointment. “Keeping up with your vaccines is one of the easiest ways to stay healthy and protect the people you love,” says Dr. Dasgupta, Chief Medical Officer.

Many Central Texas families face daily challenges putting food on the table. People’s Community Clinic is here to help.

The clinic’s monthly food pantry is now open later to make it easier for families to stop by after work. The pantry takes place on the first nd third Wednesdays of every month from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at 1101 Camino la Costa, 78752. People’s partners with the Central Texas Food Bank.

By extending our hours, we hope to reach even more families and ensure that nutritious food is available when it’s needed most.

No ID or paperwork is required. Simply come as you are. Our friendly team will welcome you with fresh food and support for your family.

During pantry hours, Community Conversations with Central Texas Interfaith offer a space for neighbors to share experiences, learn from one another, and discuss ways to build a stronger, healthier community.

At People’s, access to food is just the beginning. Together, we are building connection, hope, and opportunity for each family we serve.

Halloween is one of the most fun nights of the year — costumes, candy, and friends everywhere! Whether you’re out trick-or-treating, going to a party, or hanging out at home, a few simple tips can help you keep the night fun and safe and keep everyone healthy and happy.

Before trick-or-treating:

• Plan your route. Stick to familiar, well-lit neighborhoods and make sure everyone knows who they’re walking with.
• Be seen in the dark! Choose light-colored costumes or add reflective tape, glow bracelets, or bring a flashlight.
• Dress for the weather. Layers are key for staying warm (and comfy) no matter what the night brings.

While trick-or-treating:

• Go together. Younger kids should always be with a trusted adult. Tweens and teens should stay in groups and share their planned route.
• Stay on sidewalks and use crosswalks when crossing the street.
• Skip dark houses. Only visit homes with their lights on and decorations out.
• Stay alert. Keep an eye on your surroundings — and save the phone scrolling for later.
•  Take treats at the door. Never go inside a house or car and always stay where others can see you.

After the fun:

• Check all treats before eating. Make sure everything’s sealed and looks right — when in doubt, toss it. Avoid homemade goodies from people you don’t know well.
• Go easy on the candy. Have a few favorites and save the rest for later.
• Brush and floss! Sugar loves to stick around, so a good clean before bed is a must – cavities are scarier than any costume!

Have fun, be safe, and take care of each other! From your friends at People’s Community Clinic—have a safe and happy Halloween! 👻🧡

Looking for an easy way to improve your health and meet new people in your community? Join People’s Community Clinic and Dr. Keta Pandit for Walk with a Doc. This free, fun, and family-friendly event is a great way to get active and learn about healthy living.

Each walk begins with a short conversation on a wellness topic led by Dr. Pandit, followed by a relaxed stroll through the Mueller neighborhood. It’s a great opportunity to ask health questions, connect with others, and enjoy time outdoors.

Upcoming Walks

Location: 3601 Zach Scott Street, Austin, TX 78723
Who: Everyone is welcome, including patients, families, friends, and neighbors! To RSVP, scan the QR code on the flyer or visit austinpcc.org.

Sunday, November 16 @ 4 p.m.
Topic: How to Stay Healthy During the Holidays
Learn tips to keep your energy up, manage stress, and enjoy the season without missing a beat.

Saturday, December 13 @ 4 p.m.
Topic: Recharge and Connect by Gifting Your Time and Energy
Discover how giving back and connecting with others can improve your physical and emotional well-being.

These monthly walks are open to everyone. There are no registration fees and no special equipment needed—just bring comfortable shoes and a willingness to move!

Questions?
Email kinda.abou-hamdan@austinpcc.org

Together, we’re building a healthier and more connected community, one step at a time.

People’s Community Clinic has been honored by the American Heart Association and the American Medical Association for its strong commitment to helping patients manage their blood pressure. The clinic earned Gold Level Recognition through the national Target: BP™ program.

This award goes to health care practices where 70% or more of adult patients with high blood pressure have their blood pressure under control.

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is one of the leading causes of heart attacks and strokes in the United States. Nearly half of all adults, about 122 million people, live with high blood pressure, but only about a quarter have it well controlled. That’s why early diagnosis and good management are so important.

Starting September 8, 2025, all appointments for People’s Women’s Health will take place at our new home at St. David’s Medical Center Pavilion.

This move includes an expansion with more exam rooms, a dedicated space for group care and education, and a calm, welcoming atmosphere, all located directly across the highway from its current location. While the address is new, everything else remains the same.

• You’ll still see the same trusted care team
• Your appointment date and time will not change
• And you’ll continue receiving the high-quality care you count on from People’s

📍 New Address for all Women’s Health appointments
St. David’s Medical Center Pavilion 
1025 East 32nd Street, Suite 200
Austin, TX 78705

🚗 Convenient Drop-Off
Use the circle drive at 919 East 32nd Street to drop off patients at the Pavilion entrance, then proceed to Garage 3 for parking.

📍 Address for Parking Garage 3
1025 East 32nd Street
Austin, Texas 78705

Parking is available on P2 and P3.

We encourage all patients to allow extra time for travel and walking to the clinic.

For complete directions, transit tips, clinic hours, and FAQs, visit our official move page:

austinpcc.org/womens-health-is-moving

We look forward to welcoming patients in the new space!

Meet Keegan Warren – Board Member, founder of Medical-Legal Partnership, and legal expert.

At People’s Community Clinic, taking care of patients means looking at the whole picture, not just what happens in the exam room. That’s why Keegan Warren volunteers her time and expertise to help patients navigate legal issues that can impact their health.

Keegan is a board member, legal expert, and founder of the Medical-Legal Partnership(MLP) at People’s. She is currently the Executive Director of the Institute for Healthcare Access at Texas A&M Health.

As founder of the MLP,  she has played an active role in the program that brings lawyers into the health care team to help address legal issues that impact patients’ well-being. What makes this program unique is that lawyers are physically located at People’s working side by side with doctors, social workers, and other clinic staff to help patients resolve legal issues, such as housing problems, difficulties obtaining Medicaid, or unsafe home situations.

One important project Keegan helped create is the Prenatal Legal Checkup Series. It’s a video program in English and Spanish that educates pregnant patients about their rights and protects their families.

“It’s like a legal version of What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” she says. It talks about things like naming a legal guardian, filling out medical forms, or getting help if you’re in an unsafe relationship. These are things that don’t always come up in a regular doctor’s visit, but they’re just as crucial for staying healthy and safe.

You can access the full series here: Prenatal Legal Checkup Series

She’s also proud to be part of the Communications Committee, helping make health information easier to understand. “People’s is more than a clinic. It’s a trusted place where people are treated with dignity and respect.”

To those who support People’s, Keegan says: “You make programs like this possible. Without your help, we would be unable to provide patients with the full support they need to stay healthy. You’re not just helping individuals—you’re helping our whole community thrive.”