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Back to School Health Fair helps prepare students for new year
Henry County Public Health saw an even greater turn out for their second year
MT. PLEASANT — The Henry County Public Health Back to School Health Fair saw growth from their first year to their second year hosting this event.
With a goal to make it easier for parents to get their children ready for school, Henry County Public Health began their Back to School Health Fair last year. The fair offered parents an opportunity to get needed immunizations and screenings in one place and learn about community resources available to them in a fun atmosphere.
“I found it very helpful and convenient to do everything in one stop instead of scheduling various appointments,” a parent attending the event, Katie Westphal, said as she thanked Henry Public Health for putting on the event.
In partnership with Washington County Public Health, the Back to School Health Fair offered not only immunizations but also lead testing and dental screenings at the fair. Additionally, American Eye Care returned to the fair to give free vision screenings for students entering kindergarten through third grade.
Middle and high school students also had the opportunity to receive their sports physicals for the year for only $25 at the fair.
Healthy Henry County Communities shared the 5-2-1-0 tips for kids staying healthy. According to this campaign which encourages kids to “live 5210 every day,” they should eat five servings of fruits and vegetables, use two hours or less of screen time, stay active for one hour or more, and drink zero sugary drinks each day to promote staying healthy.
Henry County Sheriff’s Office set up at the fair where they gave out bracelets and junior deputy stickers alongside important safety information. They offered education on the safe disposal of prescriptions and how to identify drugs. Alcohol and Drug Dependency Services of Southeast Iowa also chatted with fair attendees about how to identify drugs.
With school just around the corner, the Sheriff’s Office also reminds the community of safe commuting practices for students riding bikes or walking to school. Those on wheels should always wear a helmet, obey all traffic laws including lights and signs, and ride with the flow of traffic. Those traveling to and from school on foot should avoid distractions such as screens or headphones, use sidewalks or walk against the flow of traffic and always cross streets at intersections.
Another way the Back to School Health Fair equipped families for the upcoming school year came from community resources that encourage building healthy relationships and personal growth such as the Iowa State Extension office with 4H and the Girl Scouts of Southeast Iowa.
Sadie Martin and the Teen Council hosted a table at the Back to School Health Fair and shared information and an opportunity to sign up for 4H in Henry County. The Girl Scouts about how their program offers opportunities to engage in STEM, outdoor activities, entrepreneurship, and life skills.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com
