Spanish-speaking adults can benefit from an effort Friday by the National Hispanic Council on Aging to inform the community about the importance of immunizations. The local affiliate of the nationwide campaign, Vacunemonos, will offer free flu shots and HIV/AIDS examinations in East Little Havana.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention coordinated the start of a health campaign focusing on aging Hispanics. Family and caretakers can take advantage of the education provided by Abriendo Puertas Inc., the local organization hosting Friday’s event, by learning and talking with professionals about vaccines. "There are a lot of myths out there. We want people to be educated and take care of their health," said Flor Morales, the liaison for Abriendo Puertas.

One of Vacunemonos’ goals is to raise the rate of immunized Hispanic seniors. In 2009, 50 percent of Hispanic adults 65 and older got flu shots, which is 30 percent less than white non-Hispanic adults of the same age group. Rates for Hepatitis B and pneumonia vaccine among Hispanic adults were even lower.

Participants can get immunizations and information from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday at Abriendo Puertas, 1401 SW First St. Walgreens will offer the free flu shots. A $10 incentive will be provided to participants who take the HIV/AIDS examination.