Prevention is one of the best ways to protect good health. Women ages 16-26 are invited to attend the 2nd Prevent & Protect Health Event on Saturday, October 17, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at The Wellness Company, 132A George M. Cohan Blvd., Providence.
Attendees will have the opportunity to receive a vaccine, at no cost, that protects against Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a cause of cervical cancer. HPV vaccine is given in a 3-dose series. (This event will provide one dose at not cost to the patient.) Seasonal flu vaccines will also be available. Flu vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu and avoid spreading it to others at high risk of flu-related complications.
Every year, some 12,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and almost 4,000 women die from this disease in the United States. In 2006, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted to add the HPV vaccine to the recommend adolescent and adult immunization schedule. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual seasonal flu vaccination to prevent getting or spreading the flu. The strains that are included in the seasonal flu vaccines change every year, so you must be vaccinated against seasonal flu every year.
The fair is free; however anyone who is interested in being vaccinated should make an appointment by calling 401-490-0942 or e-mailing: aip@thewellcomp.com. Appointments are suggested but not required. Women younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Women older than 18 should bring health insurance information; however, health insurance is not required to attend.
This event is being hosted by The Partnership to Reduce Cancer in Rhode Island, a statewide coalition funded by the Rhode Island Department of Health, in conjunction with The Wellness Company. Funding for this conference is from a cooperative agreement award from Center For Disease Control and Prevention.