HOUSTON - The US Houston Health Department will accept walk-ins at all of the state's COVID-19 vaccination sites and extend hours at some sites starting Monday, the department said Saturday.

In a press release, the department said vaccine appointments remain available and preferred, but walk-ins are also welcome starting April 26. The department currently offers Moderna vaccine, approved for people aged 18 and older.

"Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 should be easy and convenient for everyone, including people who may not be able to get to a vaccination site during typical business hours," said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner.

"Expanding the existing walk-in policy to all Houston Health Department sites and extending hours of operation will help ensure people have access to the lifesaving vaccines. Getting vaccinated is key to helping our lives get back to normal," Turner said.

In the state of Texas where Houston is located, over 24 percent of its 29 million people had been fully vaccinated as of April 22, according to the date from the Texas Department of State Health Services.