Free flu shots and health screenings at health fair in Yuma

In an effort to provide free flu shots to families who aren't able to afford them, Sunset Community Health Center will celebrate its “Second Health Fair and Flu Immunization Campaign” in Yuma on Nov. 17.

The fair will take place from 7:30-11:30 a.m. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center, 300 S. 13th Ave.

“A lot of families don't get flu shots because they don't have the money to pay for them. We're trying to help families by providing them with free flu shots,” said Lucy Murrieta, outreach and community relations manager.

The free flu immunizations are for adults and children. However, children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Appointments are not required; flu shots will be given on a first-come, first-served basis.

In addition, the fair will include free health screenings such as dental varnish fluoride for children 0-5 years and basic dental exams for pregnant women, as well as ear, mental health, cholesterol, glucose, HIV, blood pressure, height and weight and body mass index screenings, among others.

Murrieta noted that some families might not have insurance or their plans do not cover some of these screenings.

The event will also include referral information and booths where organizations will offer their services to community members who may not know these services exist.

“We are collaborating with other agencies whose service may benefit the community,” Murrieta said.

About 30 social services agencies will participate during this fair. The agencies will dispense free information on mental health, substance abuse, housing, consumer lending services, domestic violence, tobacco, asthma, repairs and modifications for the elderly, primary and preventive medical care services, medical discount programs for people with no insurance, dental programs, women's health and more.

“This health and informational event is intended to provide our Yuma community residents an opportunity to receive information on topics which may encourage lifestyle changes, enhance the family's well-being, increase awareness of community resources and improve their quality of life,” she said.

The event will also include raffles, games and activities for the whole family.

The health center, Murrieta said, encourages the Yuma community “to come and take advantage of the great services that will be provided free during this celebration.”

Sunset hopes to serve at least 600 people with the services provided during the event, she added.

For more information, call Sunset Community Health Center at 627-3857.

Mara Knaub can be reached at mknaub@yumasun.com or (928) 539-6856. Find her on Facebook at Facebook.com/YSMaraKnaub or on Twitter at @YSMaraKnaub.

1 - A fairgoer has his blood pressure checked during last year's Health Fair and Flu Immunization Campaign. This year Sunset Community Health center is again offering free flu shots and health screenings for children and adults at the Nov. 17 health fair.

2 - Community members check out a booth during last year's Health Fair and Flu Immunization Campaign. This year's event will include about 30 social services agencies that will dispense free information on a variety of topics. The health fair will take place Nov. 17 at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center, 300 S. 13th Ave.

3 - Blood sugar checks and other health screenings will be part of this year's Health Fair and Flu Immunization Campaign on Nov. 17. Sunset Community Health Center invites Yumans to take advantage of the free services that will be available.