RIO GRANDE COUNTY — For the first time in almost three years, Rio Grande Public Health Department in partnership with Rio Grande Hospital will be hosting a Health Fair on Sept. 30 and it is a great opportunity to get screened for several different tests and a chance to get an early flu shot at low-cost prices.

“Rio Grande Public Health and Rio Grande Hospital have really wanted to get a Health Fair out to the public for the last three years. We had to find a new venue to fit the kind of event we wanted to host for the community and the new Del Norte Fire Department Field House ended up being the perfect place. We really just wanted to have a community event that focused on more than just blood work,” said Rio Grande Public Health Representative Ida White.

For the last several weeks, the hospital and public health have been planning for this event and have come up with some ideas to get the younger generations involved in this free health-oriented event.

“We really wanted people to know that these types of events are not just for the older members of our community, and we wanted to make it a family-friendly affair. It's important to us to bring in the community as a whole and offer screenings that even families with children can take advantage of,” said White.

The event will feature screenings such as glucose, pulmonary, dental, EMI, hearing, height and weight as well as a chance to get the flu vaccine. Those interested in receiving the flu vaccine are recommended to call either public health or Rio Grande Hospital to schedule an appointment but according to White even if a person does not have an appointment they will be seen and receive the vaccine. Insurance will be processed for the vaccine but those without insurance can pay low-cost prices for the shot.

In addition to the health screenings, the event will also include cornhole tournaments, face painting, bouncy houses and much more.

“This really is just a community event, and we invite everyone to come and enjoy the day with us even if they don’t come for a health screening. We will have food and beverages and something for everyone to enjoy,” said White.

The event is scheduled for Sept. 30 from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Del Norte Fire Department Field House located at 955 French St. in Del Norte.