COVID-19

New rules and procedures by the Texas House of Representatives outlined what the 87th legislative session could look like in a pandemic.

Thursday was the first day people who got an appointment through Austin Public Health's vaccine registration site could get the coronavirus vaccine. Hundreds showed up at once, and lines wrapped around the building.

The Houston Chronicle's Jay Root says 28 new vaccine hubs across the state should make it easier for more people to get vaccinated more quickly.

Officials say patients who receive this treatment within the first 10 days of symptoms can avoid a visit to the ICU. The county opened the center last week to take pressure off hospitals.

Officials from Austin Public Health, Central Health and Ascension provided information about the vaccine’s safety, efficacy and distribution process.

APH acknowledged Wednesday that it had vaccinated people who simply showed up to one of the sites, despite guidance from the state to vaccinate only those in high-risk groups.

The director of Austin Public Health is asking for people to be patient as a new online system for people to see whether they currently qualify to receive the COVID-19 vaccine rolls out.

Pre-registration for the vaccine through the city's public health agency is now open. But it will mainly serve patients who have no other provider options.

The VA will now begin vaccinating enrolled veterans 75 years or older. Some will receive their first doses Saturday at a Central Texas COVID-19 vaccine clinic.

It takes time after vaccination for immunity to the virus to build up, and no vaccine is 100% effective. Plus, scientists don't yet know if the vaccine stops viral spread. Here's what's known so far.