Jackson County Health Department - Illinois

04/09/2026

Shopping at local farmers markets is a great way to incorporate more fresh, healthy foods into your diet🍅
Make the most of your farmers market finds by handling them safely!

When shopping at the farmers market, it’s important to keep food safety in mind.

04/08/2026

What is An Opioid and How Can You Prevent Misuse? 💊

Opioids are a kind of drug most commonly used to reduce pain. Opioid pain relievers are generally safe when taken for a short time and as prescribed by a doctor. However, nearly half of people misusing pain relievers, including prescription opioids, get them from a friend or family member.

That’s why it’s important for everyone to take a few simple steps to keep your loved ones safe. Locking up medications can stop them from being misused. Safely dispose of unused medications at a our Shred/Med/Sharps & More Disposal Day on Saturday, April 25. You can make an appointment here: https://jchdonline.as.me/schedule/3e730ac1

You can request free, prepaid medication return packages be mailed to you from MedTakeBackIllinois.org. You can also pick one up at our office any time.

Your influence matters. Be the one to help keep your family safe. 🔗GetTheFactsRx.com

04/07/2026

Coping with ni****ne cravings on your own can feel overwhelming. The Illinois To***co Quitline is a free resource that can help you find the right tools to quit smoking. For more information about quitting smoking, va**ng, or other to***co use, visit www.quityes.orgfor free help.

04/06/2026

🚨Rain Barrel Sale🚨

If you live in Jackson County, you can purchase up to two rain barrels for $25/each through our Truckload Rain Barrel Sale! 💧Proof of residency is required. Place an order online: https://rainbarrel.ca/jchd/

Rain barrels must be picked up at the University of Illinois Extension Office in Murphysboro on May 1, 2026, between 12-5:30pm.

Additional rain barrels may be purchased at the regularly listed price. Anyone residing outside of Jackson County may also participate in the sale by ordering barrels at the regularly listed price.

04/06/2026

April is National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month.

If you are a woman ages 21-64, you may be eligible for free breast and cervical cancer screenings -- including mammograms, breast exams, pelvic exams, and Pap tests -- through the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program. If you’re younger and have symptoms, you may qualify too. Even if you're uninsured or underinsured, we can help you get screened.

At JCHD, we also offer one-on-one support for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer and their caregivers. Our patient navigators can help coordinate appointments, explain treatment and next steps, and connect clients to resources like transportation and financial assistance. This program is available at no cost to residents of Jackson, Monroe, Randolph, Perry, and Washington Counties.

Visit jchdonline.org or call 618-684-3143 to learn more about how we can help!

04/02/2026

Reminder: we'll be closed tomorrow, April 3rd, for Easter, and we'll see you again for regular business on Monday. Have a safe and happy holiday!

04/02/2026

Alpha-gal syndrome is a serious allergic reaction that can develop after certain tick bites. It can make you allergic to red meat and other animal products.

As temperatures are consistently above freezing, the risk of being bitten by a tick increases. The best way to protect yourself? Avoid tick bites:
✔️ Use insect repellent
✔️ Wear long sleeves and pants outdoors
✔️ Check yourself, your kids, and your pets after being outside

Your future self will thank you!

03/31/2026

Think you know what’s happening in your teen’s world? 🕵️‍♀️

The Hidden in Plain Sight demonstration lets parents and educators explore a staged teen bedroom to identify signs of alcohol or substance use. (Adolescents are not permitted to walk through the exhibit.)

Book a session for your organization or event today!
📧healthed@jchdonline.org

03/27/2026

Little hands touch everything. 🦠 After a diaper change, washing both your hands and your child’s helps stop germs from spreading to toys, food, and surfaces around the home.

03/26/2026

These big changes to WIC food packages allow for more flexibility and variety!

Call us at 618-684-3143 ext. 120 to learn more and enroll in WIC today!

03/25/2026

Your septic system works hard. Small steps keep your system healthy and your water protected!

• Keep water, cars, and trees off your drainfield.
• Only flush toilet paper—trash, wipes, and diapers go in the garbage.
• Limit grease, fats, and harsh chemicals down the drain.
• Stagger laundry and dishwasher use to avoid overload.
• Have your tank inspected and pumped regularly.
• Test your well water to keep it clean and safe.

03/24/2026

Sexually transmitted infections are NOT inevitable – they can be prevented! Use these tips for talking to your partner(s) and healthcare provider. https://bit.ly/4s8Wsfh

Schedule a $20 comprehensive STI/HIV test at JCHD or learn more about our other sexual health services by calling 618-684-3143 ext. 155.