Health Fare Will Feature Drug

Take-Back, Food Drive, Flu Shots

Newtown’s 17th Annual Health Fair is set for September 25, from 10 am to 2 pm at the middle school

“Your health is important — make it a priority,” said fair co-chair and Health District Director Donna Culbert.

The 17th Annual Public Safety and Health Fair at the Newtown Middle School is a free event — there is no admission fee, and visitors can benefit from numerous free health screenings including vision, glaucoma, skin cancer, scoliosis/posture, cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar.

In addition, dozens of health care providers, wellness providers, fitness experts, and public safety representatives will be there to share and demonstrate ways to keep residents safe and healthy.

“There will be lots of free giveaways and free drawings,” Ms Culbert said. “It’s a unique and valuable opportunity for residents of all ages and health status.”

In addition to the 50-plus exhibitors and free health screenings, there are some new highlights for this year’s fair, Ms Culbert announced. They include:

The National Take-Back Initiative. On September 25, the US Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will coordinate a collaborative effort with state and local law enforcement agencies to remove potentially dangerous controlled substances from the nation’s medicine cabinets.

Collection activities will take place between 10 am and 2 pm at sites established throughout the country, including the middle school during the health fair. The National Take-Back Day provides an opportunity for the public to surrender expired, unwanted, or unused pharmaceutical controlled substances and other medications for destruction.

These drugs are a potential source of supply for illegal use and an unacceptable risk to public health and safety, according to the DEA. And inappropriate disposal can also pose a threat to the environment if flushed down the drain/toilet.

This one-day effort is intended to bring national focus to the issue of increasing pharmaceutical controlled substance abuse.

Food Drive. The health fair will also be a collection point for a local food drive for Newtown/Salvation Army Food Pantry. Many individuals and families are feeling the effects of these difficult economic times, even here in Newtown, Ms Culbert said.

“It is more important than ever that we do whatever we can, however large or small our effort to help our neighbors,” she added. “The Newtown/Salvation Army Food Pantry would greatly appreciate your donations.

*Flu Shots. The Danbury Visiting Nurse Association will be providing flu shots from 10 am to 2 pm

“The seasonal vaccine includes the H1N1 strain this year, which is good news,” Ms Culbert said. “They are no longer separate shots — just one shot for this year.”

For flu shot coverage on insurance, DVNA participates with the following plans: Anthem/Blue Cross, Health Net, Oxford, ConnectiCare, Aetna, CIGNA, United, Medicare Part B.

*Proof of coverage must be presented. Bring insurance card.

*Co-pays and deductibles may apply, or payable in cash, check, VISA, or MasterCard.

*Other payment arrangements may be applicable to an individual’s company. Please check with your HR representative.

*Children, adolescents, and adults are all eligible for flu shots

*Remember to wear loose clothing or short sleeves.

Flu shot appointment may be scheduled online at www.danburyvna.org; and click on the link appointments.