RaeAnn joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about Public Health Week, sharps disposal, the April outreach event, the April lab special, and insurance navigators. Henry and Stark County Health Departments are celebrating National Public Health Week by offering discounted comprehensive blood tests throughout April. Residents can schedule appointments at the Kewanee or Toulon clinics for just $50, encouraging proactive health screening. In holiday news, officials are emphasizing food safety as families prepare Easter feasts; guidance includes proper egg handling and recommended internal temperatures for meats. For parents and expectant mothers, the Better Birth Outcomes program provides free support and health education. Safe medical sharp disposal kiosks are also newly available at various county locations. Visit henrystarkhealth.com or call 309-852-0197 for more information.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, partnering with First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are inviting residents to their “12 Communities, 12 Months” outreach at West Main Coffee & Books in Toulon on April 29th. From 7:30 to 9:30 AM, locals can drop off unused medications, receive free blood pressure checks, and claim giveaways. Health information will be provided, along with insurance coverage assistance from a Get Covered Illinois Navigator. This monthly initiative brings important health resources directly to area communities, improving wellness and access.
Spring brings festive gatherings, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments are reminding the public about essential food safety practices. With many preparing traditional holiday meals such as ham, lamb, brisket, and decorated eggs, experts recommend keeping hard-cooked eggs refrigerated and using food-grade dyes for those you plan to eat. For meat dishes, always look for the USDA inspection mark. Brisket should reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit and rest for three minutes, while uncooked ham must reach 160 degrees. When serving lamb, ensure a minimum of 145 degrees. Following these guidelines helps keep holiday celebrations healthy and safe.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon, are marking National Public Health Week from April 6 through 12, 2026, by offering significant savings. Throughout the entire month of April, a comprehensive blood test package—including general health, thyroid, CBC, and a full cholesterol panel—is available for just $50. This special rate is cash only and requires scheduling an appointment in advance. The initiative aims to make essential health screenings more accessible and highlights the ongoing commitment to improving community health. For more details, visit the health department’s official website.
Residents interested in scheduling an appointment or learning more about available services can contact the Kewanee clinic at 309-852-5272 or the Toulon clinic at 309-852-3115. Additional updates, health tips, and information about the lab special can be found on social media by following the Henry and Stark County Health Departments & First Choice Healthcare on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Take advantage of this opportunity to prioritize your health and access important screenings at a reduced cost throughout Public Health Week.
Expectant parents and families with infants under six months in Henry, Stark, Marshall, and Putnam Counties have access to an important resource through the Better Birth Outcomes-Comprehensive Program. Offered by the Maternal & Child Services Division, this free program connects participants with a dedicated Nurse Navigator. Support includes health education, nutritional counseling, breastfeeding assistance through WIC, and access to mental health and substance abuse resources. The program also covers newborn care and development, ensuring both parent and baby receive comprehensive support.
Expectant mothers seeking extra support can turn to the Better Birth Outcomes program offered by the Henry & Stark County Health Departments. Designed to promote healthier pregnancies, this program provides education, resources, and guidance from trained professionals. Services are available to residents in Kewanee, Colona, Marshall County, and Putnam County. To enroll or learn more, contact the Kewanee office at 309-852-0197, the Colona office at 309-792-4011, the Marshall County office at 309-246-8074, or the Putnam County office at 815-872-2324.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, in partnership with First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are hosting their “12 Communities, 12 Months” outreach event on April 29th at West Main Coffee & Books in Toulon. Between 7:30 and 9:30 AM, residents can safely drop off expired or unused medications, get a free blood pressure check, and pick up giveaways. Health information will be available, and a Get Covered Illinois Insurance Navigator will assist with coverage questions. For details on accepted items for disposal, visit the Health Department’s website. This initiative highlights ongoing efforts to connect the community with essential health resources and services.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments have launched their “12 Communities, 12 Months” initiative, aiming to bring health promotions and events to residents throughout the year. Each month will spotlight a different community with activities and resources focused on improving wellness and access to information. Residents interested in upcoming events or seeking more details are encouraged to contact the health department at 309-852-0197. Additional information, including event schedules and health tips, can be found online at www.henrystarkhealth.com or through their social media channels on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Stay connected to take advantage of these community health opportunities.
As Easter approaches, the Henry and Stark County Health Departments urge those organizing egg hunts to keep food safety in mind. Improper handling of hard-boiled eggs has led to foodborne illnesses in the past. To reduce risk, use only fresh, clean eggs from trusted sources and refrigerate them promptly after boiling. Eggs should be handled by healthy individuals who practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing. If eggs are used for hunting, limit their time outside to no more than two hours and refrigerate any leftovers immediately. Discard hard-boiled eggs after 1 week to help ensure everyone enjoys a safe and festive holiday.
- Use only fresh, clean, unbroken eggs that have been obtained from a reliable source and kept refrigerated.
- Eggs should be prepared by healthy persons who observe good hygienic practices, such as frequent hand washing and proper cleaning of cooking utensils.
- Eggs should not be allowed to cool in standing water. They should be placed into the refrigerator immediately after cooking.
- Hard-boiled eggs must remain refrigerated after preparation and coloring and be used within seven days.
- It’s safe to keep the eggs outside for an hour or two during an Easter egg hunt, but any eggs that are not consumed right away must be returned to the refrigerator. Also, hide eggs so they stay clear of pets, dirt, and other sources of bacteria. To be extra cautious, cook two sets of eggs: one for hiding and decorating with, and another for eating.
- Remember, hard-boiled eggs in the shell or peeled do not keep as well as raw eggs, so discard any leftover eggs after one week.
Residents in Henry and Stark Counties now have access to safe disposal options for used medical sharps, such as needles, syringes, and lancets. The Henry & Stark County Health Departments, in collaboration with First Choice Healthcare Clinics and local partners, have installed dedicated Residential Sharps Collection Kiosks at six accessible locations across the area. Officials emphasize the importance of proper sharp disposal to prevent injury and safeguard sanitation workers and the public. The kiosks are available during regular business hours at healthcare clinics, the Geneseo Police Department, the Henry County Courthouse, and Alpha Pharmacy.
Residents seeking health insurance coverage have a new opportunity for assistance, as the Henry and Stark County Health Departments partner with Get Covered Illinois Navigators. Navigators will be available at local events to help individuals understand their health coverage options, compare plans, and complete applications. In-person help is scheduled at Orion Mart/Shell on April 8th from 10 AM to noon, Colona Township Hall on April 10 from 1 to 3 PM, and GROW Ministries in Cambridge on April 14th from 10 a.m. to 12:30 PM. For further details, contact 309-852-5272.
Orion Mart/Shell, 1009 Division St., Orion, IL
Wednesday, April 8th
10:00 am-12:00 pm
Colona Township Hall, 801 1st St., Colona, IL
Friday, April 10th
1:00 pm-3:00 pm
GROW Ministries, Inc., 110 N. East St., Cambridge, IL
Tuesday, April 14th
10:00 am-12:30 pm