The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is set to play a significant role at the upcoming DuQuoin State Fair, providing a wide array of public health services and information to attendees. The IDPH tent, strategically located on Grandstand Avenue across from the Grandstand, will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., offering a variety of free resources and educational materials.
One of the key services provided will be the distribution of free naloxone, in collaboration with the Egyptian Health Department. Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, and staff at the tent will offer guidance on how to recognize the signs of an overdose. This initiative is part of IDPH’s ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis in Illinois.
In addition to naloxone, IDPH will also distribute free gun locks, aimed at preventing firearm-related accidents and suicides. This initiative is in partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Illinois State Police. Visitors can also obtain information on suicide prevention resources, including details about the 988 Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Fairgoers will receive a variety of free giveaways to help ensure a safe and enjoyable time at the fair, such as bottles of water, sunscreen, cooling pouches, fans, hand sanitizer wipes, and COVID tests (while supplies last). The IDPH tent will also provide information on how to access vital records, such as birth and death certificates, through the Vital Records Division.
Moreover, the tent will offer insights into job and career opportunities at IDPH, as well as information on the department’s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. This outreach effort highlights IDPH’s commitment to promoting public health and safety across Illinois.
The DuQuoin State Fair runs from August 23 to September 2, 2024, and the IDPH tent will be staffed daily during these dates from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This is an excellent opportunity for fairgoers to engage with IDPH staff, learn more about essential health services, and take advantage of the valuable resources provided.
