El Rio Health Center and Food City are teaming up to give free immunizations to school kids. This year, there are some new immunization requirements that you may not know about.

The first immunization clinic was held on Thursday, July 24, and the turnout was overwhelming. “We guesstimated around 500,” said Arnold Arvizo of Food City. “It looks more like anywhere around 1,000 to 1,500.”

“We are vaccinating ages 4 and up who are starting school this year, up to age 18, seniors in high school,” said El Rio Health Clinic Manager Penny White. “Anything they need, we will give them.”

And the best part about it is that all vaccinations are free. “It helps a lot, so we don’t have to pay out of our pocket,” said Jennifer Mericle, who was there to get her kids vaccinated. Patricia Flores added, “It’s really hard out there right now, I mean, just look at the cost of milk, so it’s convenient to have the free clinic.”

Most of the immunizations given were hepatitis A and tetanus, but there is also a new shot that will be required for all incoming sixth graders. It’s called the menextra vaccine, which protects against meningitis. Since it’s so new, some parents don’t even know about it.

El Rio Health is planning three more free immunization clinics. You can see the dates and locations by clicking here.