Flu Deaths Grim Reminder to Vaccinate, Says Grossmont Healthcare District

SAN DIEGO - Nov. 5, 2019 - PRLog -- The Grossmont Healthcare District's annual Kids Care Fest recently provided 100 free influenza shots at Kids Care Fest ahead of a deadly 2019 flu season, already claiming the life of at least one Californian.

According to a recent report by the The Wall Street Journal, doctors are urging Americans to get flu shots, especially the very young and elderly, amid fears over evidence of a particularly deadly flu strain this season, with one expert saying, "It does make me a little bit more nervous."

In partnering with area medical providers, the District's recent October Kids Care Fest event provided nearly 100 free flu shots, along with more than 200 dental screenings and about 100 visions screens.

Free flu clinics with Champions for Health this month include: November 13 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Volunteers in Medicine, 1475 E. Madison Ave., El Cajon; November 14 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Lemon Grove Farmers Market, VFW Parking Lot, 2885 Lemon Grove Ave., Lemon Grove; and, November 21 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at El Cajon Valley High School, 1035 E. Madison Ave., El Cajon.

Residents are encouraged to contact Champions for Health about upcoming free flu clinics at Andrew.Gonzalez@ChampionsFH.org.

"Our efforts include increasing the influenza vaccination rate for those without a medical home," said Andrew Gonzalez, Champions for Health's Community Wellness and Partnership Manager. "By improving access to these vital healthcare services, our community residents can address their healthcare issues in a more timely manner, before the issue becomes an emergency."

In addition to vital flu shots and other health services, Kids Care Fest offered people of all ages health insurance enrollment assistance, food assistance program information, and nutrition education as well as rock climbing, an inflatable obstacle course, and meet-and-greets with police and fire officials.

"We loved seeing all the families getting out and spending some fun fall time together today," said Barry Jantz, CEO of Grossmont Healthcare District. "It allowed folks to check off some of those pressing health needs all in one place, which is especially important as we head into flu season."

"Our outreach has expanded to include food donations from the San Diego Food Bank, behavioral health counseling resources, and breast and cervical screening services," Jantz said. "Our organization aims to work with our partners to support the health of body and mind."