National Hispanic Medical Association Highlights Flu Vaccination Services at Healthy
Families Health Fair
FORT WORTH, Texas.— The National Hispanic Medical Association (NHMA) will be hosting a community health fair on Saturday, November 23, at Tarrant County College, downtown campus at a time when flu season is gearing up.
This family-friendly event will feature FREE flu vaccines, along with fun activities for attendees of all ages. The fair offers a unique opportunity for the community to access essential flu prevention and health services in a supportive, engaging environment.
“The flu is more than just a seasonal nuisance; it can lead to serious complications,
hospitalizations, and even death,” said Jaime Gonzalez, doctor of public health with expertise
in health disparities and health equity, and an NHMA member helping to organize the event. “I
believe the benefits of flu vaccination extend beyond individual health and contribute to the health
and well-being of the communities across the country where our member health plans operate.”
Each year, the influenza virus claims between 290,000 and 650,000 lives globally, impacting our most vulnerable populations—children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.
Last flu season, the Dallas County Health Department reported more than 300 flu-related hospitalizations were reported, with spikes in November and December. The county also saw eight influenza-associated deaths, including at least one pediatric death. Flu positivity rates surged from 3.5% early in the year to 19.6% by December. Tarrant County also faced significant flu activity, with flu-like illnesses accounting for 11.7% of healthcare visits in the 2022-2023 season—well above the usual 5.9% baseline, according to its public health division. In February, Tarrant County confirmed its first pediatric flu death of the season. As of November 2024, cases remained high.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), during the 2019-2020 flu season, vaccines prevented an estimated 7 million illnesses and 100,000 hospitalizations. Even if a vaccinated person contracts the flu, the vaccine can significantly lessen the severity of the illness, reducing ICU admissions by 26% and the likelihood of death by 31%.
WHAT: National Hispanic Medical Association’s Healthy Families Health Fair
WHEN: Saturday, November 23 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. CT
WHERE: Tarrant County College – Trinity River Campus 300 Trinity Campus Cir., Fort Worth
WHO: Kick-off event at 11 a.m.
RESOURCES AND ACTIVITIES:
- FREE FLU VACCINES
- FREE PARKING
- Prizes and holiday gift cards, including one free turkey.
- Raffle
- Music
- Food