Fearful of a major outbreak of measles and other childhood diseases in Los Angeles County, Centinela Hospital in Inglewood will give free immunizations at schools, churches and other locations between Aug. 18 and Sept. 23.

Working with the Los Angeles County Health Department and various community service groups, the hospital is also launching a public education campaign.

According to a spokesperson for the hospital, many people are unaware that measles, polio, diphtheria and other childhood diseases pose a major health threat. An estimated 55% of preschool children and 15% of elementary school children in the county have not been adequately immunized against these diseases. Black and Latino children are especially affected.

This year, 1,500 people in the county have contracted measles. At least six have died.