RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about World Infection Prevention Week, CPR classes, Kewanee and Geneseo fall clinics, Covid shots, flu shot clinics, and insurance navigators. World Infection Prevention Week is being recognized across Henry and Stark Counties, as health officials urge residents to stay vigilant amid rising cases of flu, COVID-19, and RSV. The “Stand UPPP” campaign encourages handwashing, staying up-to-date on vaccines, and remaining at home when ill. Adult and pediatric flu shots are available at First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon. A drive-thru flu shot clinic is set for Kewanee on October 17th. Free flu shots are available with Medicare or insurance; otherwise, the fee is $60. More details and appointments are available at henrystarkhealth.com.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare Clinics, are highlighting World Infection Prevention Week, running October 19–25. This year’s theme, “Stand UPPP: Unite, Prevent, Protect & Prevail,” encourages everyone to take action against spreading germs, especially as flu, COVID-19, and RSV cases tend to rise in the colder months. As we head into the season when respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, the flu, and RSV are most common, officials urge residents to take preventative measures. Recommendations include staying current on vaccinations, washing hands frequently, remaining home when sick, and using masks as needed. Adult flu vaccines are available at clinics in Kewanee, Toulon, and Colona by appointment or walk-in. Flu vaccines are available to persons under the age of 18 by appointment only. A drive-thru flu shot clinic will also take place in Kewanee on October 17, 2025, from 10 AM to 1 PM, in the parking lot across from the clinic on North Burr Blvd. Residents with Medicare or insurance can receive shots at no cost, while cash payment is set at $60.
First Choice Healthcare Clinics are now accepting appointments at their locations in Kewanee, Toulon, and Colona. Residents can schedule medical visits or get more information by calling the clinics directly: Kewanee at (309) 852-5272, Toulon at (309) 852-3115, and Colona at (309) 792-4011. The clinics emphasize accessible healthcare and offer details online at www.henrystarkhealth.com. Updates and health tips are available through their social media channels on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, helping keep the community informed and connected to essential health resources.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, together with First Choice Healthcare, are now offering the updated adult COVID-19 shots at the First Choice Healthcare Clinic in Kewanee. Vaccines are available on a walk-in basis from 8 AM to 4 PM, Monday through Friday, while supplies last. Individuals can also schedule an appointment by calling 309-852-5272. Adults with Medicare or insurance coverage should bring their insurance card to obtain the updated Pfizer vaccine for 2025-26. The Illinois Department of Public Health recommends vaccination for all adults 18 and older, including those who are pregnant or postpartum.
Flu shots for adults and children are now available at all First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon. Adults can receive their flu shot on a walk-in basis or by appointment, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM; children’s shots are by appointment only. Shots are offered at no cost for those with Medicare or insurance, but don’t forget to bring your card to qualify. For those without coverage, the cost is $60. A Drive-Thru Adult Flu Shot Clinic takes place in Kewanee on October 17th, from 10 AM to 1 PM, in the health department’s west parking lot.
The Health Department is rolling out the 3-component Trivalent Seasonal Flu vaccine at First Choice Healthcare locations in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon. Officials emphasize that this shot offers the most thorough protection against influenza for residents this season. Those interested in receiving the vaccine or seeking additional details can contact First Choice Healthcare by phone in Kewanee at 309-852-5272, Colona at 309-792-4011, or Toulon at 309-852-3115. More information is also available online at www.henrystarkhealth.com or through the Henry and Stark County Health Departments’ social media channels.
Area residents are invited to attend the Fall Health Check Clinic at the Kewanee Public Library on Wednesday, October 22nd, from 9:30 to 11:30 AM. The event, supported by the Henry & Stark County Health Department and First Choice Healthcare, is open to adults 18 and older. Free flu shots are available for those with Medicare or insurance—attendees must present their insurance card. The cash price for the vaccine is $60. The clinic also offers free blood pressure checks, vital signs assessments, and blood glucose screenings. Additional health resources and giveaways will be provided to promote community wellness.
The Health Department is urging all individuals aged six months and older to receive a flu vaccination this season. Special emphasis is placed on those at higher risk for severe flu complications, including young children, pregnant women, seniors over 65, those with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart or lung disease, and smokers. Health care workers are also strongly encouraged to get vaccinated to help protect vulnerable populations.
The Henry County Health Department, First Choice Healthcare, and Geneseo Public Library District are teaming up for a special Fall Health Check Clinic on Thursday, October 23rd, from 9:30 to 11:30 AM. Area residents aged 18 and older are invited to the Geneseo Public Library at 805 N. Chicago St. Participants with Medicare or insurance can receive free flu shots; insurance cards are required. Flu shots for cash payments cost $60. The clinic also offers complimentary blood pressure checks, vital signs assessments, and blood glucose screenings. Health information and free giveaways will be available for all attendees.
The Health Department is urging all individuals aged six months and older to receive a flu vaccination this season. Special emphasis is placed on those at higher risk for severe flu complications, including young children, pregnant women, seniors over 65, those with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart or lung disease, and smokers. Health care workers are also strongly encouraged to get vaccinated to help protect vulnerable populations.
Residents of Henry and Stark County who need health insurance can find help this Thursday, October 16th, at the McDonald’s at 315 South Tenney Street in Kewanee. From 11 AM to 3 PM, health insurance Navigators from the Get Covered Illinois program will be on hand to guide people through finding affordable coverage, submitting applications, and comparing plans. They’ll explain financial assistance options and eligibility for Medicaid. Those who have experienced significant life changes—like losing job-based coverage, getting married, or moving—may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. For more information, call 309-852-5272.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, along with First Choice Healthcare, are offering monthly CPR certification classes to help residents prepare for potential cardiac emergencies. These classes, held on the fourth Tuesday of each month at the Health Department offices in Kewanee, train participants to respond to breathing and cardiac crises for all ages. Instruction includes proper use of Automated External Defibrillators (AED) and understanding emergency signals. The two-hour sessions cost $45 per person, with pre-registration and payment required. Space is limited, so community members interested in learning these lifesaving skills should call 852-0197, Extension 231, to reserve a spot.
