Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) will have a presence at the Illinois State Fair, offering public health information, services, and giveaways at two locations during the event from August 7 to 17 in Springfield.

“It is almost time for the annual Illinois State Fair, and I can’t wait to enjoy this truly, unique Illinois experience,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “As you enjoy the food and fun, please stop by one of IDPH’s two exciting locations to learn valuable information to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy. We look forward to seeing you at the Fairgrounds.”

The main IDPH tent will be situated on the east side of the Annex Building across from the Lincoln Stage. Each day will highlight a different program, including oral health, racial and cultural health equity, children’s health, violence prevention, vital records, women’s health, human resources, men’s health, preparedness and response efforts, environmental health issues, and lead safety.

Giveaways such as naloxone kits for opioid overdose reversal, COVID-19 test kits, first aid cases, pillboxes for medication management, hand sanitizer, bag clips, cooling packs for heat relief, sunscreen with clips for sun protection and other items will be available while supplies last.

This year’s fair will also feature participation from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR), which oversees professional licensing for more than 1.2 million individuals in Illinois—including healthcare providers like physicians and nurses. At their table in the main tent area representatives will answer questions about professional licensure requirements in Illinois (https://idfpr.illinois.gov/profs/LicenseLookUp.asp), offer free items to visitors and distribute publications that help consumers understand how to ensure quality service from licensed professionals.

“The Illinois State Fair is a wonderful celebration of all things Illinois, including the protections in place to ensure the health and safety of its residents,” said IDFPR Secretary Mario Treto Jr. “Together we can continue to foster a culture of excellence and trust in the services provided to the people of Illinois.”

A secondary IDPH location will be inside Conservation World at the Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Tent. There staffers will provide information on freshwater fish consumption advisories as well as tips on protecting against mosquito- or tick-borne diseases; tick removal kits and mosquito repellent wipes will also be distributed.

IDPH is also scheduled to participate in the Du Quoin State Fair later in August.