In a practical move to address public health concerns, Tarrant County Commissioner Alisa Simmons has taken the helm to fight against a recent measles outbreak by setting up a vaccination clinic. This clinic will be part of the commissioner's second annual Kidney Wellness & Health Expo on Saturday, March 15, 2025. The state of Texas is currently facing its largest measles outbreak in the last 30 years, a fact highlighted by state health officials. Commissioner Simmons, cited by Tarrant County Precinct 2 news, made an earnest plea: "Measles can lead to death, and loss of life does not have to be the outcome."
The initiative comes after an outbreak that started in late January, taking an aggressive stand with this first-of-its-kind event hosted by a Tarrant County elected official. Set to take place at the Tarrant County Sub-Courthouse, located at 700 E. Abram St. in Arlington, the pop-up clinic will feature clinical staff from the Tarrant County Public Health Department administering vaccines from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Offering services free of charge, the announcement also noted that while residents may register in advance via Eventbrite for the measles vaccine, flu shots, or COVID boosters, walk-ins are encouraged for those seeking immediate vaccination.
The Kidney Wellness and Health Expo aims not only to provide vaccines but also to raise awareness about chronic kidney disease, an ailment that Simmons herself was diagnosed with. In a statement that echoes the quiet shock of her own diagnosis, Simmons told Tarrant County news, "I had no idea I had Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease." The expo will include kidney disease screenings, courtesy of the Dallas chapter of the National Kidney Foundation, along with expert presentations, healthful food demonstrations, and a resource fair.
Highlighting a major health issue, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is an affliction affecting over 37 million American adults. With African American individuals at higher risk due to genetic factors, high blood pressure, and diabetes, Simmons' event underscores the necessity for education and prevention. Adding an incentive to attract a larger audience, the commissioner, as per her revelation, is throwing in a free lunch to coax people into attending this critical event.
