RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss dental health, heart health, the Henry County Farm Bureau Checkup Event, vaccines, and free gun locks.
February marks National Children’s Dental Health Month, as announced by the Henry and Stark County Health Departments in partnership with the American Dental Association. This year’s theme, “Feed Your Smile!” highlights the crucial link between diet and oral health. RaeAnn Tucker, Director of Health Promotion, underscores the importance of teaching children basic dental habits. Essential tips include scheduling routine check-ups, cleaning gums daily, and establishing a regular brushing and flossing routine. Prioritize nutritious snacks and hydration for lasting health benefits. For more on dental programs and resources, reach out to the Health Department at 309-852-0197.
February marks American Heart Month, a crucial time to focus on heart health. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare, encourage residents to take heart health seriously. Family Nurse Practitioners in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon are available to help manage high blood pressure and cholesterol. Simple lifestyle changes, like eating breakfast and quitting smoking, play a significant role in heart health. Physical activity, even moderate, is vital. Prioritize your heart’s well-being this month.
For more information on heart-friendly programs and services, call the First Choice Healthcare clinic nearest you: Kewanee (309) 852-5272; Colona (309) 792-4011; and Toulon (309) 852-3115, or visit our website at www.henrystarkhealth.com, or find them on Facebook and Twitter.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, in collaboration with First Choice Healthcare, are promoting firearm safety by offering free gun locks. Available at their offices and clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon, these simple devices are vital in reducing firearm-related injuries and deaths. Statistics show that locked firearms and ammunition can drastically decrease the risk of self-inflicted and accidental injuries. The initiative, supported by the Veterans Crisis Line, addresses gun safety as part of a broader public health effort. Residents are encouraged to participate, especially those affected by mental health concerns. The importance of safeguarding firearms is underscored by their potential to save lives.
These gun locks are available through the Veterans Crisis Line. This is a 24/7 Confidential Crisis Support Network. Simply: Dial 988 the Press 1; or Chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat; or Text 838255.
Residents can pick up free gun safety locks by stopping by the Henry and Stark County Health Department Offices and First Choice Healthcare clinic locations in Kewanee, 110 N. Burr Blvd.; Colona, 103 1st St.; and Toulon, 120 E. Court St., Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm.
First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon are offering updated COVID-19 and flu shots for adults and children over six months. COVID-19 vaccinations are available by appointment, while flu shots for adults 18+ can be administered on a walk-in basis Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Children’s flu vaccinations require an appointment.
Health officials also recommend simple preventive measures to stay healthy: keep hands clean, cover coughs, stay home when sick, and consider wearing a mask in crowded spaces. For appointments, contact your nearest clinic: Kewanee at 309-852-5272, Colona at 309-792-4011, or Toulon at 309-852-3115. Act now to safeguard your health this season.
The Henry County Farm Bureau is coordinating with First Choice Healthcare and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments to host a Certified DOT Exam Clinic on February 21, 2025, from 8 AM to noon. The event, taking place at 128 N Prospect St., Cambridge, is exclusively for Henry County Farm Bureau members. Participants can get a Certified DOT Exam at a discounted rate of $115 and Tetanus Booster Shots for $25, for cash only. These exams are essential for commercial drivers and those transporting hazardous materials. Appointments are required and are on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, attendees can enjoy free donuts, coffee, and juice while browsing health-related materials. For more information or to make an appointment, call 309-937-2411.
In addition, those who are seeing a provider and are on medication for sleep apnea, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiac, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, depression, other mental health issues, and seizures. Participants need to obtain a clearance letter from the medical provider and bring it to the exam.