Health Department Logo

Our Services
H1N1 Influenza Home Health Alerts Annual Reports Community Health and Prevention Environmental Health Emergency Preparedness Medical Reserve Corps Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Health Promotion and Epidemiology Information Library Board of Health About Us Contact Us Mental Health Resource Guide

Health Department News

September National Food Safety Education Month

August 30, 2010

Lacon - In recognition of National Food Safety Month, the Marshall County Health Department would like to remind you that food borne agents cause an estimated 76 million illnesses annually in the United States. National public health surveillance data provides some insight into the causes of food borne illness, types of implicated foods, and where food borne outbreaks occur. This information is routinely evaluated by local health departments in an effort to implement food safety strategies to prevent and control food borne illness within our community.

 

The food safety data reveals that certain individuals, including those with a compromised immunity, are particularly susceptible to food borne agents. These people are considered high-risk for food borne illness, because they tend to get sick from unsafe foods more often than the rest of the population. Young children, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with a chronic illness or receiving medical treatment are considered high-risk consumers with respect to food borne illness.

 

Health department staff in the performance of their food safety inspections work with restaurant employees to assure a safe meal is served to consumers. Food safety measures utilized by food service workers can include purchasing food from safe sources, cooking food adequately, holding food at proper temperatures, using clean equipment, and following appropriate personal hygiene practice.

 

Additionally consumers need to understand their risk for suffering a food borne illness and make informed food choices. High-risk customers should order fully cooked meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs. Consumers should also be aware of their own food allergies and avoid foods that can cause reactions. Consumers also need to be aware that infants and preschool children can get sick from food more easily than adults because their immune systems are still developing.

 

While restaurants and customers have choices, individuals also need to remember these food safety choices when they treat others to meals or serve friends at home.

 

For more information about the Marshall County Health Department's Food Safety Program call 309-246-3053.

Additional Special Back to School Immunization Clinic Scheduled
July 27, 2010
Lacon - The Marshall County Health Department is having a special Back to School Walk-In Immunization Clinic for all children at the Health Department (319 Sixth St., Lacon) on Tuesday, August 10, 2010, from 9 - 11:30 AM and 1:30 - 5:45 PM.

The Marshall County Health Department holds periodic walk-in shot clinics intended to assist busy parents in getting their children properly immunized to be ready for school. A parent or guardian must accompany the child. Cost is $10 per immunization or a Medicaid/All Kids card is accepted. No appointment is necessary for this special walk-in clinic. For other scheduled immunization appointments and for more information on immunizations, call 309-246-8074.
Board of Health Work Session Scheduled
July 20, 2010
Lacon - There will be a Board of Health Work Session regarding public health service delivery models and FY2011 budget issues at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, August 4, 2010 at the Marshall County Health Department, 319 Sixth Street, Lacon, Illinois. Members of the Marshall County Board of Health will be in attendance; however, no official public action will be taken at this meeting.

Media inquiries regarding this meeting can be addressed by calling Diana Scott at 679-6603.
Special Back to School Immunization Clinic Scheduled
July 15, 2010
Lacon - The Marshall County Health Department is having a special Back to School Walk-In Immunization Clinic for all children at the Health Department (319 Sixth St., Lacon) on Tuesday, July 27, 2010, from 9 - 11:30 AM and 1:30 - 3:30 PM.

The Marshall County Health Department holds periodic walk-in shot clinics intended to assist busy parents in getting their children properly immunized to be ready for school. A parent or guardian must accompany the child. Cost is $10 per immunization or a Medicaid/All Kids card is accepted. No appointment is necessary for this special walk-in clinic. For other scheduled immunization appointments and for more information on immunizations, call 309-246-8074.
Free Screenings to Celebrate National Women's Health Week
May 3, 2010
Marshall County - The Marshall County Health Department will hold a Women's Health Fair on Friday, May 14th from 8:00 to 10:30 a.m. at the Marshall County Health Department, 319 Sixth St., Lacon to celebrate National Women's Health Week. This year's theme, It's Your Time, is a nationwide initiative encouraging women to take simple steps for a longer, healthier, and happier life.

Free osteoporosis, blood pressure, cholesterol* and diabetes* screenings (*appointment and 8 to 12 hour fasting is required for these tests) will be provided by the Marshall County Health Department in conjunction with the Illinois Department of Public Health's Office of Women's Health.

Information on osteoporosis, breast health, cardiovascular disease, stroke, physical activity, nutrition, smoking cessation and emergency preparedness will also be available. There will be lots of give-a-ways and prizes.

For more information or to make an appointment for the free blood screenings, contact the Marshall County Health Department at 309-246-8074.
Health Department Hosts Community Baby Shower
April 13, 2010
Marshall County - The Marshall County Health Department will be hosting a Community Baby Shower on Friday, April 30th from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Lacon Community Center, 405 North Washington St., Lacon. The baby shower is a community event intended to provide fun and information to pregnant women and families of children under 5 years of age. There will be information on prenatal care, good nutrition, breastfeeding, the importance of regular doctor check-ups, and oral health care.

There are many things a woman can do to have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. These things include routine prenatal care, good nutrition, and avoidance of certain harmful substances like alcohol, tobacco and drugs. These healthy habits should become a way of life and continue after the baby is born.

At the baby shower, parents can get car seats checked, have refreshments, win door prizes, and take home educational give-a-ways. Along with the Health Department, participating organizations include The American Red Cross, Aunt Martha's Community Health Care Clinic, Doral Dental, Methodist Medical Center, Planned Parenthood, The La Leche League, The Breastfeeding Resource Center, Child and Family Connections, SIDS of Illinois, and local businesses.

Please plan to attend this exciting and informative event. For more information contact the Marshall County Health Department at 309-246-8074.
Health Department Offers FREE Bone Density Screening LOCATION CORRECTION
March 22, 2010
Marshall County - The Marshall County Health Department will be offering free bone density heel screenings, by appointment, Tuesday, April 6, 2010 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Henry Nutrition Site, 1301 2nd Street, Henry.

This screening is quick and painless and is for any woman over the age of 50 or with any of the following risk factors:
  • Family history of osteoporosis
  • Caucasian or Asian
  • Under 130 pounds
  • Low calcium intake
  • Inactive lifestyle
  • Tobacco or alcohol consumption, OR
  • Certain medications such as steroids for long periods of time

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become more fragile and more likely to break. The broken bones that result can lead to pain, height loss, difficulty moving around, and possible permanent disability and dependence. It is estimated that 10 million Americans already have the disease and 34 million more have low bone mass placing them at risk for osteoporosis.

The most important thing to know about osteoporosis is that it's never too early - or too late- to start prevention! To reach optimal peak bone mass and continue building new bone tissue as you get older, there are several factors you should consider:
  • Take in adequate amounts of calcium and Vitamin D
  • Increase bone mass when young
  • Prevent bone loss, fractures, and falls
  • Get stronger with weight-bearing exercise
  • Limit alcohol consumption, AND
  • Stop smoking

For more information on osteoporosis or to make an appointment call Beth at the Marshall County Health Department at 309-246-8074.
Area Health Departments Promote National Nutrition Month
March 3, 2010
Peoria and Marshall Counties - March is National Nutrition Month and area health departments support healthy eating and healthy living. Peoria and Marshall County Health Departments are offering special Nutrition for Health presentations to community groups and Cooking for the Heart cookbooks for any organization requesting a presentation in March.

While good nutrition is a key factor in healthy living, poor nutrition contributes to poor health, including obesity and overweight. Research tells us that 61% of the people in our Peoria area are obese or overweight. Controlling your weight can reduce the risk of many chronic health conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, respiratory problems, osteoporosis, sleep disorders, some cancers, and liver disease.

For the best nutrition follow the dietary guidelines for Americans developed by the Departments of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Agriculture (USDA). These guidelines set the standards for a healthy diet. They include tips such as: eat a variety of food; be at your best weight; eat fewer fatty foods; eat foods that contain fiber; eat less sugar; eat less salt; and do not drink alcohol.

There are activities you can do to practice good nutrition. Learn to read food labels, ask about heart healthy foods at restaurants, check out the nutrition values from school or workplace lunch programs, encourage breast-feeding with new moms, take time to visit your local Farmer's Market or grocery for fresh fruits and vegetables, and try new healthy recipes.

To schedule a Nutrition for Health presentation, call Peoria City/County Health Department (309)679-6131 or Marshall County Health Department (309)246-8074.
Marshall County Board of Health Meeting Scheduled
February 16, 2010
Marshall County - There will be a Marshall County Board of Health meeting on March 24, 2010 at 6:00 pm at the Marshall County Health Department located at 319 Sixth Street in Lacon, Illinois.

Media inquiries regarding this meeting can be addressed by calling Diana Scott at 679-6603.
Area Health Departments Promote National Go Red for Women Day
February 1, 2010
Peoria and Marshall Counties - Friday, February 5th, 2010, is the National Go Red for Women day. This day is designated to increase awareness of heart disease in women. Heart disease is the #1 killer of women, claiming the lives of more than 450,000 American women every year. In an average year, about 20,000 women in Illinois die from heart disease. It is also known that 38 percent of women die within a year of having a heart attack, as compared to 25 percent of men.

Some of the risk factors for heart disease are: high blood pressure, physical inactivity, poor nutrition, overweight/obesity, diabetes, and tobacco use. Tobacco use is the #1 preventable cause of heart disease. As with men, women's most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. However, women are more likely than men to also experience some other common symptoms: shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Please join the Peoria City/County Health Department and Marshall County Health Department in showing your support for the National Go Red for Women day. Wear red to show your awareness of heart disease in women.

For more information or to see how you can promote awareness of heart disease and how you can help prevent it, call Peoria City/County Health Department 309/679-6131 or Marshall County Health Department 309/246-8074.
December Meeting of Board of Health Cancelled
December 15, 2009
The Marshall County Board of Health meeting originally scheduled for December 16, 2009 at 6 pm has been cancelled.

The next regularly scheduled meeting:February 24, 2010, 6:00 p.m. at the Marshall County Health Department, 319 Sixth St., Lacon, Illinois 61540
Restrictions Lifted, H1N1 Flu Vaccine Clinics Scheduled for General Public
December 10, 2009
In response to State of Illinois directives, the Marshall County Health Department is lifting priority group restrictions for all H1N1 vaccine clinics effective December 15. There are no residency requirements and no charge for the vaccine.

For the past 2 months, local area health departments worked with hospitals and physicians to reach out to those groups of people most at risk of serious complications from the H1N1 influenza. Over 30,000 doses of H1N1 vaccine have been delivered to the Peoria and Marshall County areas. "With more vaccine arriving every week, we are working with state officials to assure vaccine is being distributed throughout our communities," stated Greg Chance, Public Health Administrator for Peoria and Marshal County Health Departments. The public will soon be able to go to many retail pharmacies that registered for H1N1 vaccine starting no later than Dec 21.

"While clinics will be open to the general public, we still encourage priority groups of people to get the H1N1 vaccine," stated Chance. Priority groups of people most at risk of serious complications from the H1N1 virus include pregnant women, people caring for infants under 6 months of age, individuals 6 months to 24 years, and people age 25-64 years with underlying medical conditions.

Individuals should continue to practice preventative measures while waiting for both the seasonal and H1N1 flu shots to become available; clean your hands frequently, cover your nose and mouth when coughing, and contain spread of the flu virus by staying home when you are ill.
Health Departments Report Local H1N1 Influenza Mass Vaccination Clinic Update
November 24, 2009
The Marshall County Health Department and the Peoria City/County Health Department have administered over 5,000 doses of vaccine since beginning their H1N1 immunization campaign in early November. "Our focus remains on providing H1N1 vaccine to the designated priority groups via scheduled walk-in clinics through December 9, 2009" stated Greg Chance, Public Health Administrator for Peoria City/County Health Department and Marshall County Health Department. Chance further commented that there has been a H1N1 immunization clinic held every day of the work week in either Peoria or Marshall County since November 9th.

Initial outbreaks of the H1N1 influenza virus revealed that certain groups of people are at greater risk for serious health problems or death due to the H1N1 influenza. These groups are different than the individuals most at risk due to the seasonal flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention currently restricts the H1N1 vaccination to priority groups most at risk of serious complications from the H1N1 virus. These groups are pregnant women; people caring for infants under 6 months of age; individuals 6 months to 24 years; those people age 25-64 with underlying medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, or compromised immune systems; and direct contact healthcare workers.

Additionally, the Health Departments have provided H1N1 vaccine to medical providers in the community to administer to their patients that fall within priority groups.

Mr. Chance urges anyone in the priority groups to attend an H1N1 vaccine clinic to protect themselves and others. Scheduled walk-in H1N1 priority group clinics include the following:
  • Varna Fire State, Varna, November 24, 4pm-7pm
  • Farmington High School, Farmington, November 30, 4pm-7pm
  • Monroe Elementary, Bartonville, December 2, 4pm-7pm
  • Elmwood High School, Elmwood, December 3, 3:45pm-6:45 pm
  • Woodruff High School, Peoria, December 8, 4pm-7pm
  • Midland High School, Varna, December 9, 4pm-7pm
  • Other upcoming clinic times to be announced.
At this time, the Health Departments are currently evaluating the success of the large-scale H1N1 immunization clinics to determine if there is a more appropriate alternative method to provide the H1N1 vaccine to the public after December 9th.

Individuals should continue to practice preventative measures while waiting for both the seasonal and H1N1 flu shots to become available; clean your hands frequently, cover your nose and mouth when coughing, and contain spread of the flu virus by staying home when you are ill.
Delay in Shipment of Seasonal Flu Vaccine Temporarily Suspends Clinics
October 1, 2009
Marshall County Health Department staff reported today that they are awaiting delivery of the remaining seasonal flu vaccine order, citing that information from vaccine manufacturers indicates that the companies are experiencing difficulties in distributing the vaccine in all areas across the U.S. Therefore, MCHD is suspending all seasonal flu immunization clinics until further notice.

Following direction from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), seasonal flu shot clinics were scheduled soon after receiving notice of an anticipated date for initial receipt of vaccine. At that time there was no indication from the manufacturers that there would be any delay in receiving the remainder of the orders. Subsequently, action was taken to begin flu shot clinics early in the season in order to ensure the best possible protection for the community.

MCHD has no information at this time as to when the remaining doses of seasonal flu vaccine ordered earlier this year will be received. Residents of the community are encouraged to utilize other local resources such as pharmacies and physician offices whenever possible to receive their seasonal flu shot. It is still early in the flu season and there is still plenty of time for individuals to receive a seasonal flu shot and for it to be effective; however, those who have specific health care concerns should contact their physician.

Individuals should continue to practice preventative measures while waiting for both the seasonal and H1N1 flu shots to become available; clean your hands frequently, cover your nose and mouth when coughing, and contain spread of the flu virus by staying home when you are ill.
Marshall County Health Department Offers Presentations on the New H1N1 Flu
September 17, 2009
The Marshall County Health Department is now providing special informational H1N1 flu presentations to community groups. With the potential of increased illness this flu season because of the additional, new flu strain, called H1N1, it is important for the community to understand how best to protect themselves against the regular seasonal flu and the new H1N1 flu virus.

The H1N1 presentations now become part of a broader scope of resources to the community through the Health Department's Speakers Bureau. Comprised of public health experts, the Speakers Bureau is available to interested groups including civic organizations, social service clubs, schools, churches, and neighborhood associations.

Discussion of the H1N1 flu virus includes information on the regular seasonal flu virus we see every year, the new H1N1 vaccine availability, best techniques to prevent the spread of flu, and community prevention measures.

To schedule a presentation on H1N1 or for a list of other public health presentation topics, call the Marshall County Health Department at 309/246-8074.
Take Precautions Against West Nile Virus
September 15, 2009
Although the end of summer is near, the Marshall County Health Department would like to remind the public that mosquitoes are still active and the threat of West Nile Virus (WNV) still exists. Mosquitoes that carry WNV will remain active until after the first several hard freezes.

WNV infection is a mosquito-borne disease that is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito infected by feeding on an infected bird. Most people with the virus have no clinical symptoms of illness, but some may become ill three to 14 days after the bite of an infected mosquito.

Only about two persons out of 10 who are bitten by an infected mosquito will experience any illness. Illness from West Nile disease is usually mild and includes fever, headache and body aches, but serious illness, such as encephalitis and meningitis, and death are possible. This infection can also be spread through infected transplanted organs and blood transfusions but the likelihood of infection through this route is very small.

In 2008, there were no human cases of WNV in Marshall County; however, there were 20 human cases and one death reported in Illinois. This year, three people in Illinois have tested positive for WNV and a total of 30 counties have reported mosquito batches, birds, horses or humans testing positive for WNV. Anyone can get the virus, however people over 50 years of age and those with weakened immune systems have the highest risk of developing a severe illness. The best way to prevent WNV infection is to reduce the number of mosquitoes around your home and to take personal precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Here are some easy tips to prevent WNV:
  • Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and early evening. These are the times when the mosquitoes are most active. If you are outdoors at these times, wear shoes and socks, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. Loose-fitting, light colored clothing is best.
  • Use mosquito repellant when it is necessary to be outdoors and follow the instructions on the product label.
  • Eliminate stagnant water in birdbaths, ponds, flowerpots, wading pools, old tires and any other receptacles that could hold a small amount of water.
  • Check for and repair any tears in residential screens, including porches and patios.
  • Clean clogged roof gutters.
  • Turn over plastic wading pools when not in use.
  • Aerate ornamental ponds or stock them with fish.
  • Clean and chlorinate swimming pools that are not being used.
  • Use landscaping to eliminate standing water on your property.

For more information on West Nile Virus, contact the Peoria City/County Health Department, Environmental Health Group at 309/679-6161.
Adult Health Clinic Scheduled for Friday, September 18, 2009
August 31, 2009
The Marshall County Health Department is providing an Adult Health Clinic on Friday, September 18th. The clinic will be held from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM. at the Marshall County Health Department, located at 319 6th St. in Lacon.

Services and fees include:
  • Routine testing for cholesterol and blood sugar - $25.00
    (A doctor's prescription is required. An 8-10 hour fast is recommended for accurate readings)
  • FREE blood pressure checks
  • FREE weight checks
  • FREE medication compliance review.

Make your appointment by calling the Marshall County Health Department at 309/246-8074. Call in early, space is limited for these appointments.
Fall Flu Season Guidance for Communities
Local public health departments prepare to keep communities healthy during the flu season
August 28, 2009
Peoria and surrounding counties With the flu season, area health department administrators from Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, Marshall, Henry-Stark, and LaSalle Counties participated in a joint planning session in Peoria to discuss community preparations for both seasonal flu and the new H1N1 flu. Following federal guidance designed to help keep people healthy during the upcoming flu season, administrators planned a campaign to include community stakeholders and business to inform the public about staying healthy and reducing the spread of the flu virus.

Peoria City/County Health Department Administrator Greg Chance discussed the seasonal flu virus and H1N1 flu virus that will be circulating at the same time this flu season. Chance stressed, "It is vital we mount a joint effort among key stakeholders in the community to follow CDC (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) guidelines to prepare our communities for the flu season." Area administrators are working with medical providers, school districts, day cares, 1st responders, and large businesses to encourage the shared responsibility to promote healthy behaviors concerning flu prevention.

Public health officials are working with community partners to provide current updates for public educational campaigns to prevent the spread of flu, offering guidance for business continuity of operations, conducting mass vaccination clinics, and implementing community prevention measures.

Messages the health departments are promoting to the general public include the following:
  • Encourage people to get a seasonal flu shot early. This is the shot that is given annually. It is expected to be widely available in Sept. and Oct. for everyone. Getting a flu shot is the best way to protect against becoming ill with the seasonal flu virus.


  • Help prevent the spread of the flu by encouraging good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette practice the 3 C's.
    1. Clean wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of germs.

    2. Cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow or sleeve.
    3. Contain stay home if you are sick.

  • Get an H1N1 flu shot (could be a 2-shot series) when it becomes available. This is a separate vaccine from the seasonal flu vaccine and will be initially available to those most at risk. The H1N1 vaccine is not intended to replace the seasonal flu vaccine.

For more information on the seasonal flu or the new H1N1 flu log onto www.flu.gov or www.ready.illinois.gov or call your local health department.
Local Health Departments Encourage Americans to Get Ready During National Preparedness Month (NPM)
August 25, 2009
The Marshall County Health Department is proud to be participating in the sixth annual National Preparedness Month (NPM) in September. Sponsored by the Ready Campaign, NPM is a nationwide effort designed to increase awareness as well as encourage individuals, families, businesses and communities to take action and prepare for emergencies.

This year, NPM is focusing on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness and helping Americans understand what it truly means to be Ready. Preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, dead-bolt locks and extra food in the pantry. Being Ready includes: getting an Emergency Supply Kit; making a Family Emergency Plan; being informed about emergencies and their appropriate responses; and getting involved in community efforts such as Citizen Corps.

Jason Marks, Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for Peoria and Marshall Counties, stresses that our communities should prepare for emergencies. "By preparing yourself, your families, and your businesses, you not only get peace of mind, but you help in building a more resilient community. We all need to be prepared for any emergency that can happen at any time."

For more information about the Ready Campaign and National Preparedness Month, visit www.ready.gov or call 10800-BE-READY.
Marshall County Health Department Launches New Website at www.marshallcountyhealth.org
August 14, 2009
The Marshall County Health Department invites the community to visit its new website at www.marshallcountyhealth.org. The site is the most recent communication tool the Health Department is using to inform the community about all of its services and programs, including up to date information on issues that could affect the health of people in Marshall County.

The new site presents an easy to read menu of Marshall County Health Department programs and health related items. "News" features Health Department releases of new programs and clinics. "Health Alerts" centers around special awareness of health risks to people. The "Information Library" includes links to annual reports and program brochures. Other menu items list many program services, along with general information on the Health Department and its governing Board of Health.

In the future, watch for late-breaking news updates about health issues in Marshall County, from flooding and well water safety, to mosquito control and West Nile Virus, to emergency preparedness, to back to school immunizations for kids, to the upcoming flu season coupled with the novel H1N1 virus.
Ultraviolet Safety Month
July 1, 2009
July is Ultraviolet (UV) Safety Month, sponsored by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). This month, you are encouraged to protect your eyes from the sun's damaging UV rays. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause eye conditions such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, and vision loss. It is important to protect yourself and loved ones during the summer months, when UV radiation is at its highest.

Did you know?
  • UV rays are invisible rays of light radiated from the sun
  • UV light is at its greatest level between the hours of 10AM to 2PM
  • People get 80% of their lifetime sun exposure by the age of 18
  • Snow, sand, grass, and water can all reflect the UV light that reaches them

To protect your eyes and skin from the damaging affects of UV light follow these tips:
  • Wear sunglasses and a brimmed hat outdoors
  • Buy sunglasses that block 99-100% UV rays
  • Limit your time in the midday sun
  • Seek shade
  • Always use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher and reapply it every 2 hours when outdoors
  • Watch the UV index, which provides information to help you plan your outdoor activities

For more information, please call the Marshall County Health Department at 309/263-8074 or visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology Website.