RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice HealthCare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the new WIC office in Kewanee, cold weather safety, insurance navigators, and National Birth Defects Prevention Month. This January, the Henry and Stark County Health Departments are emphasizing birth defect prevention with the theme “Every Journey Matters.” Officials urge all women of childbearing age to take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, consult healthcare providers about medications, and stay up to date on vaccines. Achieving a healthy weight before pregnancy and avoiding harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco are also recommended steps to lower risk. WIC services offer nutrition support for mothers and children, with a new Kewanee office opening February 3rd at 109 S. Burr Blvd. For local resources or assistance, visit henrystarkhealth.com or call 309-852-0197.
January marks National Birth Defects Prevention Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments are highlighting ways to help reduce birth defects. The theme for 2026 is “Every Journey Matters,” focusing on healthy choices before and during pregnancy. Advice from the Health Department includes taking daily folic acid, consulting healthcare providers about medications, staying current on vaccines, achieving a healthy weight before pregnancy, and avoiding harmful substances. Every four and a half minutes, a baby is born with a birth defect in the United States. For support or information on WIC services, local First Choice Healthcare locations are available to help.
Heather Aldred, Maternal and Child Health Services Supervisor with the Health Department notes, “Many steps can be taken to increase a woman’s chance of having a healthy baby. Here are some helpful tips for pregnant women or women who may become pregnant: While we can’t prevent all birth defects, the following steps increase a woman’s chance of having a healthy baby.
1. Be sure to take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid every day.
2. Book a visit with your healthcare provider before stopping or starting any medicine.
3. Become up-to-date with all vaccines, including the flu shot.
4. Before you get pregnant, try to reach a healthy weight.
5. Boost your health by avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy, such as alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.
The department highlights “Prevent to Protect” guidelines, which can help reduce both birth defects and pregnancy complications such as early loss, prematurity, and stillbirths. Birth defects range from congenital heart conditions to cleft palate and genetic syndromes.
Whether you’re seeking nutritional support, health screenings, or guidance on infant and child wellness, assistance is available in Kewanee at 309-852-5272, Colona at 309-792-4011, and Toulon at 309-852-3115. WIC services provide vital support for pregnant women, infants, and young children.
Residents of Kewanee will soon have improved access to maternal and child health resources as the Henry and Stark County Health Departments announce the opening of their updated WIC Services location. The office is set to open on Tuesday, February 3rd, in the former Johnson’s Chiropractic building at 109 S. Burr Blvd. Public Health Administrator Duane Stevens says the new, dedicated space will better serve local families and allow expansion for behavioral and mental health services at the nearby First Choice Healthcare Clinic.
Offered by the county health departments, WIC provides healthy foods, nutrition education, and other resources to eligible women, infants, and children. Community members interested in applying or learning more can contact local offices in Kewanee at (309) 852-0197, Colona at (309) 792-4011, or Toulon at (309) 852-3115. Online applications and further details are available online.
With temperatures plunging across Henry and Stark Counties, local health officials are urging residents to take extreme caution when heading outdoors. Frostbite and hypothermia remain significant risks in subzero conditions, with frostbite often striking hands, feet, ears, and nose within minutes. Early signs include numbness and discoloration. In severe cases, frostbite may result in lasting tissue damage or even amputation. The Health Department advises layering clothing, keeping extremities covered, and avoiding wet garments. Alcohol and tobacco use increase susceptibility to cold-related injuries. Residents are strongly encouraged to limit outdoor exposure and check on vulnerable neighbors during these frigid days.
Health insurance assistance is available in Henry County next week. Residents looking for coverage or needing help navigating health plans can meet with Get Covered Illinois Navigators at several upcoming events. Experts will be available at Alwood Pharmacy in Alpha on January 26th, Geneseo City Hall on February 5th, and Paula’s Design Team in Kewanee on February 6th. Attendees can explore affordable options, apply for coverage, compare plans, and learn about financial assistance and Medicaid eligibility. Special Enrollment Periods may be available for those experiencing recent life changes. Call 309-852-5272 for more information.
Geneseo City Hall, 115 S. Oakwood Ave., Geneseo, IL
Thursday, February 5th
9:00 am-12:00 pm
Paula’s Design Team, 125 W. South St. #8, Kewanee, I
Friday, February 6th
1:00 pm-3:00 pm