by David Lippman, News Channel 3 News Producer

dlippman@kesq.com

PALM DESERT - Flu season is here -- and with it, reminders to get flu shots and other tips to keep yourself healthy.

A free health fair was held Saturday at Palm Desert Civic Park.

Hundreds of people came out to learn more about beating the flu and other winter illnesses.

Nutritionists, acupuncturists, chiropractors were among those offering information and special discounts.

Many people said, given the high cost of health insurance, they were ready to take any free advice they could get.

"It's really hard" said Susan Cofer of Thousand Palms. "If I get sick, I can't take care of my family. And right now, I'm not working, and, I mean, it's heartbreaking. Not having insurance, you can't get to the doctor, they turn you away, or if you do go to the emergency room, they threaten to turn you in to some kind of collection agency. And how are they going to get their money? They can't squeeze it out of a rock."

Saturday's event was organized by the Desert Recreation District.

Another free health fair is scheduled for November 14th, from 10 p.m. until 2 p.m. at the Indio Community Center on Clinton Street. For more details, call (760) 393-5114