RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss STI Awareness Month, Easter food safety, and free Medicare wellness visits. April is highlighting key health initiatives in Henry and Stark Counties. With STI Awareness Month on, the mantra is “Talk. Test. Treat.” to combat the rising 20 million new STI cases annually in the U.S., heavily impacting those aged 15 to 24. Local clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon offer discreet testing and treatment. As Easter nears, food safety remains paramount. Follow guidelines for safe egg handling to avoid illnesses. Lastly, prioritize preventive care with free Medicare Annual Wellness Visits. Call local First Choice Healthcare clinics for appointments and ensure a healthier tomorrow. Stay informed and proactive this April.
April marks STI Awareness Month, with the theme “Talk. Test. Treat.” The focus is on educating individuals about sexually transmitted infections and empowering conversations with healthcare providers to ensure safety. Annually, 20 million new STI cases are reported in the US, costing about $16 billion in healthcare expenses. Alarmingly, those between 15 and 24 are most affected. First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon offer confidential services like STI testing, treatment, contraceptives, PrEP programs, and vaccinations. Protecting oneself includes abstinence, correct condom use, regular screenings, and crucial immunizations.
As Easter approaches, the Henry and Stark County Health Departments offer guidelines to ensure a safe celebration. With instances of food-borne illnesses linked to improperly prepared Easter eggs, they advise using only fresh, clean, and unbroken eggs from reliable sources. Those preparing eggs must practice good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing. After boiling, eggs should be refrigerated immediately and used within a week. During egg hunts, eggs can safely stay outdoors for up to two hours but should be kept away from pets, dirt, and other sources of bacteria. To be safe, consider using two sets of eggs: one for eating and another for decoration and hunts. Enjoy a happy and healthy Easter!
As spring brings festive gatherings, it’s essential to prioritize food safety. Whether your menu features Easter ham, Passover brisket, or lamb, follow key guidelines to keep your celebrations healthy. Eggs should not remain unrefrigerated for more than two hours, and cooked egg dishes must reach 160°F. If dyeing Easter eggs, use food-grade materials, or consider using plastic eggs. Kosher meats need the USDA inspection mark for safety assurance. Make sure lamb reaches 145°F and hams are prepared according to their type. These precautions help ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience during this season of celebration.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare, emphasize the significance of preventative care in sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Medicare covers an Annual Wellness Visit at no cost to the patient. This involves a comprehensive assessment, where medical history and medication are reviewed, current health and safety are evaluated, and a tailored preventative healthcare plan is created. Participants can also address any health questions or concerns. For more information or to schedule your annual wellness exam, call the First Choice Healthcare clinic nearest you: Kewanee 309-852-5272; Colona 309-792-4011; or Toulon 309-852-3115. Taking advantage of this opportunity can help ensure a proactive approach to personal health.
