September is Sexual Health Awareness Month. Sexual Health Awareness Month is an annual observance held throughout September to raise awareness about the importance of sexual health and well-being. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments say the reasons behind observing this month are manifold:
Promoting safe practices — One of the primary goals of Sexual Health Awareness Month is to educate individuals on the importance of practicing safe sex. It’s an opportunity to discuss the use of contraceptives, including condoms and birth control, to prevent unintended pregnancies and the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Breaking stigmas — Sexual health issues often carry a significant societal stigma, which can discourage individuals from seeking help or information. By observing this month, we aim to break down these stigmas, create a safe space for discussions, and encourage open and honest conversations about sexual health.
Empowering individuals — Education is a powerful tool for empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their sexual health.
First Choice Healthcare Clinics offer confidential:
Though the subject of one’s sexual health may not be a comfortable healthcare issue to discuss, health officials want people to remember that their First Choice Healthcare locations in Kewanee and Toulon are sources of confidential testing, treatment and education. It’s important for the public to be aware of the availability of tools and services that they may need to stay healthy.
For more information or appointments call First Choice Healthcare in Kewanee 309-852-5272 or Toulon 309-852-3115.
Sept. 14-18 has been proclaimed Septic Smart Week. The goal of Septic Smart Week is to help residents understand the importance of septic system maintenance and healthy communities.
Owning a home is more than just having a place to live; it’s about taking on responsibilities that ensure your household runs smoothly and reliably. If your home relies on a septic system, you might not realize it, but you have an important role—you’re not just a homeowner; you’re also a wastewater treatment operator. While this might sound daunting, embracing this role is crucial for maintaining your system’s health and protecting your shared neighborhood environment.
According to Henry and Stark County Health Department officials, homeowners need to understand their septic system. A septic system treats and disposes of household wastewater. When maintained properly, it ensures that harmful bacteria and pollutants don’t enter water systems, safeguarding your health and the environment. Without proper care, however, it can lead to expensive repairs, groundwater contamination and potential health hazards.
Homeowners need to think of themselves as the operator of a mini-wastewater treatment plant. Your actions directly impact the efficiency and longevity of your septic system. Here are six essential tips to help you become a septic-smart homeowner:
Think at the sink
Everything that goes down your drain can affect your septic system. Avoid pouring fats, oils and grease down the sink, as they can clog pipes and drain fields. Use your garbage disposal sparingly and avoid flushing non-degradable items like wipes, menstrual products and dental floss.
Don’t strain your drain
Conserving water reduces the load on your septic system. Fix leaky faucets and toilets, install high-efficiency fixtures and spread out laundry loads throughout the week. By reducing water usage, you can help your system treat and dispose of wastewater effectively.
Keep it clean
Regular septic system inspections and pumping are vital. The EPA recommends having your septic system inspected every three years by a licensed professional and pumped every three to five years, depending on your household size and usage. This prevents the buildup of solids that can clog your system and cause failures.
Shield your field
Your drain field is an essential part of your septic system, where the soil filters and treats wastewater. Protect it by not parking or driving on it, planting trees and shrubs a safe distance away to prevent root interference, and ensuring that roof drains and sump pumps direct water away from it.
Protect it and inspect it
Keep the components of your septic system, like the tank and drainfield, accessible for inspections and maintenance. Know the location of your system to prevent accidental damage during landscaping or construction activities. Regular inspections can catch potential issues early, saving you from costly repairs.
Don’t overload the commode
Your toilet is not a trash can. Flushing non-biodegradable items can clog your septic system and lead to failures. Only flush human waste and toilet paper. Meaning NO condoms, cigarette butts, coffee grounds, cat litter, household chemicals like gasoline, oil, pesticides, antifreeze and paint and pharmaceuticals. Educate your family and guests about what can and cannot be flushed to avoid unnecessary damage.
Remember, as a septic system operator, you play a crucial role in protecting public health and the environment. Proper maintenance not only ensures your system works efficiently but also extends its lifespan, saving you money and reducing the risk of pollution. Your proactive approach to septic care can prevent contamination of local water sources, safeguarding ecosystems and community health.
For more information about the health departments’ private sewage disposal program call 309-852-0197 or follow this link to their website: https://www.henrystarkhealth.com/161/Private-Sewage-Disposal-Program.
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. Although its mortality rate has steadily fallen in the last decade, prostate cancer is still the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men in the United States.
In recognition of that, First Choice Healthcare Clinics in Kewanee and Toulon are offering a $10 prostate specific antigen (PSA) test special. The PSA test is open to all men ages 50-64; or any men younger who have a first-degree family member (father/brother/son) who has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Males under 50 years of age will need a physician’s order for the screening. No fasting is necessary for this screening. This screening can be a stand-alone test or be added to any of our other popular lab tests.
The First Choice Healthcare Clinics will be offering this special at all clinic locations in Kewanee, 110 N. Burr Blvd. 309-852-527 and Toulon, 120 E. Court St., 309-852-3115. This special is open to all area residents, and appointments are necessary and will be accepted on a first come, first served basis. Please note, this PSA special is available on a cash only basis.
To schedule an appointment or for more information on the First Choice Healthcare Clinic location nearest you, call the health department at 309-852-0197 or visit their website at www.henrystarkhealth.com.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and First Choice Healthcare Clinics remind area residents their “12 Communities, 12 Months” event for September will be a special outreach display on Friday, Sept. 18 from 10 a.m.- noon at the Purple Onion Restaurant, 311 W. Front St., Annawan. Their staff will offer the public: free accepting and disposal of home expired or unused medications; and free blood pressure checks. There will also be free giveaways and health information. In addition, their Get Covered Illinois Insurance Navigator will be available.
For instructions regarding expired/unused medication and sharps disposal for this event, click here.
RaeAnn Tucker, director of health promotion with the health department said, “We believe this is going to be a wonderful event as there will be something for everyone interested in getting some great information, taking advantage of free screenings, giveaways, and talking with our staff.” The health department and First Choice Healthcare utilize this year-long opportunity to showcase the many programs and services available to area residents and families.
For more information about the “12 Communities, 12 Months” promotions & events call the health department at 309-852-0197 or visit their website at www.henrystarkhealth.com or find them on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments or follow them on Twitter and Instagram.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and the Get Covered Illinois Navigator Program asks, “Do you need health insurance?” Their health insurance navigators will be present at the upcoming local events to assist anyone looking to set up health insurance coverage:
The Purple Onion, 311 W. Front St. Annawan
Friday, Sept. 18
10 a.m. – noon
My Nails, 114 W. 2nd St., Kewanee
Monday, Sept. 21
10 a.m. – noon
