Licking Memorial Health Systems (LMHS) will present, “Be Wise…Immunize,” a free Youth Flu Immunization event on Saturday, November 18, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Licking Memorial Family Practice – Downtown Newark, located at 20 West Locust Street.  Infants and youth, up to the age of 18, are eligible to receive the vaccine.

The event is planned in an effort to increase the community’s flu immunization rate for infants and children.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 7,000 to 26,000 children in the U.S. are hospitalized each year because of flu-related complications.  Many of those illnesses could be prevented with the annual flu vaccine.

A parent or legal guardian must accompany infants and children to the Youth Flu Immunization event.  Appointments are required and can be made by calling (220) 564-1840.

The event will include light refreshments and free prizes for all youth.  In addition, each youth who receives a vaccine will be entered into a drawing for a $50 Toys R Us gift card.