Tarrant County commissioner hosts pop-up measles vaccination clinic to help combat statewide outbreak
Arlington, Texas – Tarrant County Commissioner Alisa Simmons is taking action to prevent the spread of measles by hosting a pop-up vaccination clinic on Saturday, March 15, 2025. The clinic, which will offer free measles vaccines, is part of her second annual Kidney Wellness & Health Expo, a community initiative focused on chronic kidney disease awareness and prevention.
This marks the first measles vaccination event organized by a Tarrant County elected official since Texas began experiencing its largest measles outbreak in over 30 years. The outbreak, which started in late January, has raised concerns among public health officials about the rapid spread of the highly contagious disease.
Commissioner Simmons Encourages Vaccination
“Measles can lead to death, and loss of life does not have to be the outcome,” said Commissioner Simmons. “While it is a highly communicable disease, measles is preventable.” She emphasized the importance of taking the outbreak seriously, urging families not to underestimate how quickly the disease can spread or the severity of its effects.
Clinical staff from the Tarrant County Public Health Department will be on-site to administer the vaccine between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Tarrant County Sub-Courthouse, located at 700 E. Abram St. in Arlington. The event is open to the public, and vaccines will be provided free of charge.
Residents can register in advance to receive the measles vaccine, a flu shot, or COVID-19 booster. However, walk-ins are also welcome.
Health Expo Focuses on Chronic Kidney Disease Awareness
The Kidney Wellness & Health Expo, hosted alongside the vaccination clinic, is designed to educate the public on the dangers of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and provide resources for prevention and management. The event will feature free kidney disease screenings, health education presentations by local physicians, cooking demonstrations, and a health resource fair.
The Dallas chapter of the National Kidney Foundation will be offering complimentary screenings to assess kidney function. People diagnosed with diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol are at significantly greater risk for kidney disease, which can lead to cancer, kidney failure, or even death if left untreated.
Commissioner Simmons has been vocal about the need for greater awareness surrounding kidney health, citing her own diagnosis as a personal motivation.
“I had no idea I had Stage 2 Chronic Kidney Disease,” she revealed. “That’s why I’m so passionate about educating people about the disease. I’m throwing in a free lunch to bring people out.”
A Growing Public Health Concern
Chronic Kidney Disease affects more than 37 million adults across the United States. Research indicates that African Americans are disproportionately affected due to genetic predisposition, high blood pressure, and diabetes—all of which are leading contributors to kidney failure.
By combining vaccination efforts with kidney disease awareness, Commissioner Simmons hopes to make a meaningful impact on public health in Tarrant County. With the continued support of local health professionals and community organizations, the Kidney Wellness & Health Expo is poised to be a critical resource for disease prevention and education.
