RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about National Preparedness Month, Fall Health Clinics, Insurance Navigators, and National Food Safety Education Month. September is National Preparedness Month, aligning with the 24th anniversary of 9/11, and this year’s focus is “Preparedness Starts at Home.” The Henry & Stark County Health Departments urge residents to assess local risks, create emergency plans, and assemble supply kits. Resources are available at henrystarkhealth.com and ready.gov. In health updates, free flu shot clinics will be held on October 22nd at the Kewanee Public Library and on October 23rd at the Geneseo Public Library—insurance, Medicare, or $60 cash accepted. These clinics also offer complimentary blood pressure and glucose checks, along with health information and giveaways for attendees. September is National Food Safety Education Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments are spotlighting crucial steps everyone can take to avoid foodborne illness. Changing industry standards mean it’s essential to purchase food from licensed, reputable sources—now easier with online inspection records. Remember the four key practices: clean, separate, cook, and chill. These simple habits can help prevent the nearly 48 million foodborne illnesses suffered annually in the U.S. More details are at henrystarkhealth.com or by calling 309-852-0197. Stay up to date by following the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice HealthCare Clinics on social media.
September marks the 24th anniversary of 9/11 and serves as National Preparedness Month, an annual campaign launched to promote emergency readiness across the country. This year’s theme, “Preparedness Starts at Home,” urges individuals and families to assess local risks, create emergency plans, and assemble supply kits. The Henry & Stark County Health Departments and the Office of Emergency Management encourage residents to take this opportunity to become proactive about safety. Preparedness is most effective when everyone participates. For tips, resources, and educational materials, visit henrystarkhealth.com, on Facebook, or ready.gov. The initiative is made possible by support from the Illinois Department of Public Health.
The Henry County Health Department, First Choice Healthcare, and Kewanee Public Library are teaming up to offer a special Fall Health Check Clinic for adults on Wednesday, October 22nd. The clinic runs from 9:30 to 11:30 AM at the Kewanee Public Library, 102 North Tremont Street. Free flu shots are available for those with Medicare or insurance—just remember to bring your card. For cash payments, the flu shot is $60. The clinic will also provide complimentary health screenings, including blood pressure, vital signs, and blood glucose checks. Attendees can pick up health information and participate in free giveaways.
A special Fall Health Check Clinic will be held on Thursday, October 23rd, from 9:30 to 11:30 AM at the Geneseo Public Library, 805 N. Chicago Street, Geneseo. The event is open to all adults 18 and older. Free flu shots will be available for those with Medicare or insurance coverage—be sure to bring your card. For those paying cash, the flu shot will cost $60. The clinic will also provide complimentary blood pressure checks, vital signs, and blood glucose screenings. Attendees can expect a range of health information and free giveaways at this community wellness event.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, together with the Get Covered Illinois Navigator Program, are offering in-person assistance for those seeking health insurance coverage. Navigators will be available at Save-A-Lot in Kewanee on September 30th and at the Country Store in Geneseo on October 6th, both from 1 to 4 PM. They’ll help community members find affordable plans, compare options, and understand eligibility for financial aid or Medicaid. Special Enrollment Periods allow those experiencing major life changes—such as job loss, marriage, or relocation—to update their coverage. Call 309-852-5272 for more details and guidance.
Save-A-Lot, 401 S. Main St., Kewanee, IL
Tuesday, September 30th
1:00-4:00 PM
Country Store, 12705 Wolf Rd., Geneseo, IL
Monday, October 6th
1:00-4:00 PM
September marks National Food Safety Education Month, as highlighted by the Henry and Stark County Health Departments. With changing technology and regulations in the foodservice industry, the spotlight is on steps everyone can take to keep food safe. The health department urges residents to purchase food from licensed, reputable businesses, as inspection records can now be viewed online. Remember to clean, separate, cook, and chill food. For more details, visit henrystarkhealth.com, email [email protected], or call 309-852-0197. Follow the Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice HealthCare Clinics on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
September marks Food Safety Education Month, a crucial reminder of the dangers lurking in improperly handled meals. Each year, roughly 48 million Americans fall ill from contaminated food, with children, seniors, pregnant women, and those with weakened immunity facing higher risks for severe illness. Simple habits can dramatically reduce the threat: always wash hands, surfaces, and utensils; keep raw meat away from ready-to-eat foods; cook using a food thermometer to ensure safe temperatures; and refrigerate perishables quickly. By following these four key steps, everyone can play a part in preventing foodborne illness and keeping families safe.
