Mobile flu campaign to get underway
As temperatures drop, a local health center is offering a mobile unit which will provide flu shots and free health screenings to the Yuma County population.
Sunset Community Health Center (SCHC) will be hosting its 7th annual Wellness on Wheels Flu Campaign starting Oct. 13.
During the campaign, which will take place until the end of October — on various dates and at various locations — free flu shots for children and adults over the age of three will be offered as well as free health screenings. Appointments are not necessary.
Every year, Murrieta said the Wellness on Wheels Flu Campaign reaches about 700 people in the community. This year, she noted SCHC hopes to reach about 800 people.
“We are aware that most of the people in our community go to work every day and sometimes do not have the time to set up an appointment with their medical home to access a vaccine, that is why we take the mobile to different locations near them — facilitating them the opportunity to benefit of our free resources,” said Lucy Murrieta, community relations, outreach and eligibility director at SCHC. “Sunset is encouraging (people) to make plans to get vaccinated early in fall, before flu season begins.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone six months and older should get an injectable flu vaccine before the end of October, if possible.
“Getting vaccinated later, however, can still be beneficial and vaccination should continue to be offered throughout the flu season, even into January or later,” Murrieta noted.
According to the CDC, influenza and or “flu” is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses and can cause mild to severe illness. The CDC web page “About Flu” showed that people with certain health conditions, older people, and young children are at higher risk of serious flu complications.
“In addition to getting a seasonal flu vaccine, you can take everyday preventive actions like staying away from sick people and washing your hands to reduce the spread of germs,” Murrieta said. “If you are sick with flu, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading flu to others.”
Some free health screenings to be offered during the campaign include glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure, height/weight, body mass index, hemoglobin screenings and more.
Certified application counselors and navigators will be available to answer questions regarding medical care services, women’s health, behavioral health, supplemental nutrition assistance program, kids care, AHCCS, the medical discount program and Marketplace Special enrollment questions.
Social services such as tobacco prevention, chronic disease selfmanagement and self-care to improve emotional wellness will also be offered during the campaign.
For more information, call (928) 373-5734.