LOS ANGELES, CA — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) today joined AltaMed medical staff to receive his COVID-19 booster shot and encourage all eligible Californians to get their booster and flu shots. At an event at the AltaMed medical center in South Gate, Padilla highlighted the progress made in the fight against COVID-19 and met with health care professionals who have been on the frontlines of the pandemic. The visit comes amid renewed concerns over a potential winter wave of coronavirus subvariant infections.

“From the beginning of my time in Washington, one of my top priorities has been helping our communities recover from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Senator Alex Padilla. “I was proud to have cast one of my first votes in the Senate to pass the American Rescue Plan, which brought one billion dollars to community health centers across California to improve COVID testing, treatment, and vaccine distribution. I came here today to receive my booster shot — it was quick, easy, and safe. I urge everyone to join me in this fight by signing up for their shot today, and help keep California safe this winter.”

“Thank you to Senator Alex Padilla for being a great community health champion and for his visit to AltaMed South Gate today,” said Castulo De La Rocha, President and CEO of AltaMed Health Services. “We were honored to administer your COVID-19 booster today. We commend you for receiving your booster and serving as an example for our community.” 

“There are already indications that we are expecting a severe flu season this winter,” says Sherrill Brown, MD, Medical Director, Infection Prevention, AltaMed Health Services. “It is incredibly important for us to get our COVID-19 booster, as well as our flu shots, AltaMed is here to help with locations in Los Angeles and Orange Counties, regardless of the ability to pay.”

To date, over 81 million COVID-19 vaccination shots have been administered in California—with over 72 percent of Californians receiving their primary series of shots. Padilla voted to pass the American Rescue Plan in the U.S. Senate, which is continuing to deliver billions of dollars in urgently needed COVID-19 relief to millions across California. The American Rescue Plan provided $7.6 billion for community health centers.

To watch a recording of Padilla’s remarks, click here.

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