Local Residents Join NFL Hall of Famer in Effort to Help CA Reach Immunity

Date: 10/11/21

Californians continue to work hard to overcome another COVID-19 surge. USC Trojan and Pro Football Hall of Famer Anthony Muñoz is no different. He recently teamed up with Health Net to raise awareness about COVID-19 and the benefits of vaccinations.

The former USC star visited the local communities of East L.A. and Ontario at a critical time as the Delta variant spreads amongst SoCal residents.

"When I was in college, I had three knee operations, which enabled me to play 13-season in the NFL," Muñoz said. "If I listened to the medical professionals then, why wouldn't I listen now? I know I'm not a doctor, but I've educated myself, and this is important."

Munoz was joined by Dr. Ramiro Zuniga, Health Net's Medi-Cal Medical Director. Zuniga was onsite to help answer any questions or concerns from residents regarding the various vaccines.

"At Health Net, we know that vaccinations are key to ending this pandemic and are working diligently to get vaccines to some of the state's hardest hit and most diverse regions," said Dr. Zuniga. "To date, we've co-hosted over 100 mobile clinics with local partners and have vaccinated 10,000 residents in hard to reach areas. We've made great progress but, we know our work is far from over, and we look forward to continuing to work with our partners to help end this pandemic."

Hollenbeck Youth Center

Munoz stopped by a vaccination clinic at the Hollenbeck Youth Center in Boyle Heights, an area he knows well from his days at USC. He spoke with an audience of kids and parents about the part we all play in ending the pandemic. He also spoke with local elected officials and community leaders about the importance of listening to the experts.

Anthony Munoz Hall of Fame Park

Munoz also joined families, community members and elected officials at a vaccination clinic at the Anthony Munoz Hall of Fame Park in Ontario, CA, his hometown. He spoke of his love for his hometown and his optimism that COVID-19 vaccinations will get his community and residents back doing what they love. He also met with medical staff at a local hospital and vaccination clinic.