The Great American Smokeout - Thursday, November 20, 2025 Henry & Stark County Health Departments

“The Henry & Stark County Health Departments Note “The Great American Smokeout’-Thursday, November 20, 2025”

The Henry & Stark County Health Departments’ staff realize quitting smoking isn’t easy. It takes time. And a plan. You don’t have to stop smoking in one day. Start with day one. Let the Great American Smokeout-Thursday, November 20, 2025 be your day to start your journey toward a smoke-free life. You’ll be joining thousands of people who smoke across the country in taking an important step toward a healthier life and reducing your cancer risk.

More than 34 million Americans still smoke cigarettes, and smoking remains the single largest preventable cause of death and illness in the world. Smoking causes an estimated 480,000 deaths every year, or about 1 in 5 deaths. And more than 16 million Americans live with a smoking-related disease.

Quitting smoking improves health immediately and over the long term – at any age. Stopping smoking is hard, but you can increase your chances of success with help. Getting help through counseling and medications doubles or even triples your chances of quitting successfully.

For more information about the Health Department’s Illinois Tobacco-Free activities, or for “No Smoking” signs or “Window Clings” for your business, call (309) 852-0197 Extension 249.

November is National Diabetes Awareness month

"The Henry & Stark County Health Department and First Choice Healthcare Notes November American Diabetes Month & Diabetes Education Week, Nov. 2-8th”

     First Choice Healthcare and Henry & Stark County Health Department says that November is National Diabetes Awareness Month with November 2-8 is designated as Diabetes Education Week.  Nearly 26 million children and adults have diabetes and an additional 79 million are at-risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes. 

     They want to raise awareness about the importance of knowing the risk factors and symptoms associated with diabetes; as well as, its serious and life-threatening complications such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease and amputation.

     Therefore, they are reminding area residents that our First Choice Healthcare Family Nurse Practitioners can help with the management of Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes. And for diagnosed diabetics, the Department announces they will offer the Hemoglobin A1C Blood Test (for Diagnosed Diabetics with a Doctor's Order) at a special price of $30 for the month of November. Please note, this lab special is available on a “Cash Only” basis. Testing is available through their clinics in Kewanee 309-852-5272; Colona 309- 792-4011; and Toulon 309-852-3115. 

     Diabetes is dangerous because high blood sugar isn't usually something you can feel.  Many people have no outward type 2 diabetes symptoms at all and can go years without being diagnosed.  That's why it's important to be aware of the type 2 diabetes symptoms and risk factors for diabetes.  Get screened by a health care provider if you have the following type 2 diabetes symptoms:

* Being unusually thirsty

* Having to urinate often

* Feeling hungry all the time

* Losing weight (without trying)

* Having blurry vision

* Feeling very tired

* Frequent infections

* Cuts and sores that heal slowly

     If you are over age 45, talk with your health care provider about being tested for diabetes, especially if you are overweight or have family members with the condition.  Regardless of your age, if you are overweight and have one or more of the other risk factors listed, the ADA suggests that you be tested for diabetes

Get Covered Illinois Health Insurance Navigators at Upcoming Events

Date: October 30, 2025

"Get Covered Illinois Health Insurance Navigators At Upcoming Events"

    The Henry and Stark County Health Departments and the Get Covered Illinois Navigator Program asks, “Do You Need Health Insurance?”  Our Health Insurance Navigators will be present at some upcoming local events to assist anyone looking to set up health insurance coverage:

Geneseo Public Library, 805 N. Chicago St., Geneseo, IL

Tuesday, November 4th

12:00pm-3:00pm

Colona Township Hall, 801 1st St., Colona, IL

Friday, November 7th

1:00pm-3:00pm

Kewanee Public Library, 102 S. Tremont St., Kewanee, IL

Monday, November 10th

1:00-3:00pm

      “Get Covered Illinois” Navigators can help you:

1. Find affordable health coverage that meets your needs

2. Fill out and submit your application

3. Compare quality health plans side-by-side

4. Find out if you qualify for financial help to lower your monthly premium

5. Find out if you qualify for Medicaid or an affordability program

6. Understand your benefits

7. Understand health insurance terms

    Remember you may be eligible to enroll in a Get Covered Illinois health plan outside of the usual Open Enrollment, or make changes to your existing coverage, if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).  The SEP may require you to enroll within 60 days of a Qualifying Life Event.  A qualifying life event is a life change, such as:

Loss of Health Coverage, due to:

1. Losing job-based coverage

2. Losing Medicaid coverage

3. Losing Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors or Health Benefits For Immigrants Adult coverage

4. A divorce or legal separation

5. Turning 26 years old, no longer eligible for parents’ coverage

Other Qualifying Life Events include:

1. Getting Married

2. Having a baby or adopting a child

3. Moving to a new ZIP code or county

4. Becoming a US Citizen

5. Leaving incarceration.

      For more information on this Get Covered Illinois Navigator Event or assistance in enrolling in a Get Covered Illinois Healthcare Marketplace please call 309-852-5272.

Geneseo Fall Health Check Clinic on October 23rd

"The Henry County Health Department, First Choice Healthcare and Geneseo Public Library District to hold special Geneseo Fall Health Check Clinic on October 23rd"

     The Henry County Health Department, First Choice Healthcare, and Geneseo Public Library District remind residents they will be holding a special Fall Health Check Clinic for area residents on Thursday, October 23rd from 9:30-11:30am at the Geneseo Public Library, 805 N. Chicago St., Geneseo.  The clinic is open to all men and women 18 years of age and older.

    In keeping with the Health Department’s mission of promoting healthier living, this Fall Health Check Clinic will be featuring Free Flu Shots for those with Medicare or Insurance Coverage.   You must, however, bring your Medicare and/or Insurance card with you in order to receive the “no-cost” shots.  The cost of this year’s flu shot, for those paying cash, is $60.

     The Health Department is encouraging everyone 6 months of age and older to get vaccinated against the flu this year.  People at high risk of serious flu complications are strongly encouraged to be vaccinated.  These "at-risk" persons include small children, pregnant women, people with chronic health problems like asthma, diabetes, smokers, heart and lung disease, health care workers, and people 65 years and older.

     In addition, the Fall Health Check Clinic will also feature the following health screenings “Free-Of-Charge:”

1. Blood Pressure Checks

2. Vital Signs

3. Blood Glucose screenings.

     In addition to the health screenings, the clinic will feature a variety of health information and free giveaways

Avoid Conflict in Inheritances and Protect Your Legacy

The trouble with inheritances is that you're not around to make sure everyone completely understands the how's and whys of your decision-making process. That is why having frank and honest discussions ahead of time is critical. When siblings have very different personalities, needs, and motivations this can be even more difficult. How can you keep your kids or other heirs from fighting it out after you're gone? Here are a few things to consider.

Start the conversation early and often. No, you don't need to have the conversation with your five-year-old, but once your children are adults, it is time. Talk to them about your wishes for your estate. Establish someone who can be an executor who is likely to be responsible and not instigate arguments between siblings and families.

Establish your wishes in writing. Now that you've had the difficult conversation with your family, it is time to put pen to paper. This is where you should consult a legal expert who can help you craft a will that can work for your estate and, hopefully, keep the peace between your children or heirs.

Understand the clarity of communication. For example, there is a difference between saying that each child will get an equal portion of items from the estate and specifically stating how each of their inheritances will break down in value. There may also be inequity between each child's lifestyle which facilitates a different process between them. Even if you're trying to create scenario that works best for each individual, that sense of fairness will be difficult to overcome.

Know the difference between fair and equal. To this end, it is critical that you and your children understand the difference between fair and equal. Equal is giving each child a stake in the house so, after your death, it is sold and the profits split. Fair might be willing the home to your youngest child when your older children are already established in their own homes. You could, then, offer an asset of similar value to the oldest.

Do you want to make sure that your family is taken care of in the most fair and equitable way? Our experts can help you establish the right process for your inheritance to avoid major conflicts between family members, so call today! 

Copyright HomeActions, LLC © 2012 - 2025. Powered by IndustryNewsletters, 5.19.3, authored by Richard Koreto.

Cash vs. Card: Which Saves You More?

The way you pay can actually influence how much you spend. Researchers have found people spend less when using cash, because physically handing over money makes the purchase feel “real.” Cards, on the other hand, can make spending feel painless, which may lead to overspending.

But cards come with their own advantages. They’re convenient, offer fraud protection, and often include rewards like cash back or travel points. Tracking expenses is also easier with a digital record. For disciplined spenders, credit cards can provide value.

So which saves you more? It depends on your habits.

• If you tend to overspend: Cash may help you control daily spending. For example, giving yourself $100 in cash for weekly “fun money” ensures you can’t overspend once it’s gone.

• If you’re disciplined and pay in full: A rewards card can actually help you save by earning perks while tracking expenses digitally.

Some people use a hybrid system—cash for daily discretionary purchases (like coffee, dining out, or entertainment), and cards for planned bills and bigger expenses.

Bottom line: The best payment method is the one that helps you feel in control. Whether it’s the tactile reminder of cash or the convenience of a card, choose the system that aligns with your financial goals.

5 Money Habits That Actually Stick

Financial advice is everywhere, but not every strategy is easy to maintain. These five habits are simple, practical, and proven to stick—because they fit into everyday life without overwhelming you.

1. Track spending weekly. Instead of waiting until the end of the month, take 10 minutes each week to review where your money went. Apps like Mint or even a simple spreadsheet keep you accountable.

2. Automate savings. Set up an automatic transfer of even $25 a week into savings. When you don’t see the money in your checking account, you’re less tempted to spend it.

3. Review bills annually. Take one afternoon each year to shop insurance rates, cancel unused subscriptions, or renegotiate internet or phone plans. Families often save hundreds this way.

4. Save windfalls. Got a tax refund, bonus, or birthday money? Save at least half before spending the rest guilt-free. This turns unexpected cash into long-term security.

5. Talk openly about money. Whether with your partner, kids, or roommates, honest conversations prevent stress and ensure everyone’s on the same page.

Example: A family who saves $25 a week through automation and cuts $50 in bills yearly could end up with over $1,500 saved by year’s end—without feeling deprived.

Stretching Your Dollar at the Grocery Store

Food prices have risen dramatically, making grocery shopping one of the biggest pressure points in family budgets. The key to savings isn’t just clipping coupons—it’s about strategy and smarter habits.

Start with a list. Studies show shoppers who go in with a plan spend 10–15% less than those who browse aimlessly. Before heading to the store, build your list around weekly sales and what you already have in your pantry. This prevents waste and impulse purchases.

Focus on seasonal produce. Buying strawberries in October might cost double what you’d pay in June, while apples, squash, and pumpkins are cheap and plentiful in fall. Incorporating seasonal foods not only saves money but adds variety to your meals.

Don’t underestimate store brands. In most cases, generic products are made in the same factories as name brands but cost 20–30% less. Try swapping out one or two items each trip—you’ll hardly notice the difference.

Another great hack is “no-spend pantry nights.” Challenge yourself to cook dinner using only what’s already in your fridge or pantry. This helps reduce food waste and stretches your grocery dollar further.

Example: If your grocery bill averages $150 a week, trimming just 10% with these habits saves nearly $800 a year. That’s money you can redirect into savings, debt repayment, or family activities.

Home Maintenance on a Budget

Home maintenance often feels expensive, but neglecting it is even costlier. Preventive care now can save thousands of dollars in emergency repairs later. The key is to focus on simple, affordable tasks that extend the life of your home and systems.

Start with your furnace. Replacing filters regularly—about every 1–3 months—costs only a few dollars but improves efficiency and reduces wear. A clogged filter can strain the system, leading to expensive breakdowns in the middle of winter. Scheduling a fall tune-up with a technician is an investment that can extend the life of your furnace and lower heating bills.

Next, clean your gutters. Leaves and debris block water flow, leading to ice dams or water damage inside walls. With just a ladder and a few hours, you can prevent thousands in repairs. If climbing isn’t an option, hiring a local service is far cheaper than fixing waterlogged drywall.

Don’t forget about your roof and windows. Walk around your home and look for missing shingles, cracked caulk, or drafty spots. A $5 tube of caulk or $20 worth of weatherstripping can save hundreds in heating costs.

Think of maintenance as protecting your investment. For example, spending $100 on preventive care now might save $1,000 in repairs later. By planning small seasonal tasks and spreading costs across the year, you’ll avoid big, unexpected bills and keep your home in top shape.

Budgeting for Fall Fun

Fall is one of the most exciting seasons of the year. Between pumpkin patches, football games, fall festivals, and cozy coffee shop visits, the opportunities to spend money seem endless. But without a plan, all those seasonal outings can take a toll on your budget. The good news? You don’t have to miss out—you just need to budget wisely.

Start by setting aside a “fall fun budget.” Decide what feels comfortable—maybe $50, $100, or $200 for the whole season depending on your family size and income. Write down the events and activities you want to enjoy, from buying pumpkins to tailgating at the big game. Having a clear budget helps you prioritize what matters most.

Next, look for free or low-cost community events. Many towns offer fall parades, craft fairs, or trick-or-treat nights at no cost. Parks and trails are also at their most beautiful during autumn, giving you a budget-friendly way to soak in the season. Pairing a free activity with a budgeted splurge (like hot cider at a local café) helps you get the best of both worlds.

Finally, treat seasonal splurges as planned purchases. Buying a $6 pumpkin latte every day can add up to $180 a month, but indulging once a week keeps it special and affordable. By balancing free activities with planned spending, you’ll create memories without the guilt.

Bottom line: Fall fun doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With a little planning, you can enjoy everything the season has to offer—pumpkins, festivals, and all—without stressing about the cost.

Smart Ways to Save for Retirement (No Matter Your Age)

Retirement might feel like a distant goal when you’re in your 20s, or like it’s coming at you fast in your 60s. The truth is, it’s never too early—or too late—to start saving. Whether you’re just beginning your career or planning to wind it down, the right habits now can make a world of difference later. Here are age-specific strategies to help you build (and protect) your nest egg.

In Your 20s: Start Small, But Start Now

Time is your greatest advantage when you’re young. Even small contributions have decades to grow thanks to compound interest. If your employer offers a retirement plan like a 401(k) with a match, take full advantage—it’s essentially free money. And if you don’t have access to a plan at work, consider opening an IRA. The key isn’t how much you save at first, but how consistently.

In Your 40s: Prioritize and Accelerate

By mid-career, expenses like mortgages, childcare, and college savings often compete for your dollars. But this is also the time to increase your retirement contributions as your income grows. Aim to save at least 15% of your salary if possible. Maximize tax-advantaged accounts, and if you’re behind, use “catch-up” strategies such as cutting discretionary expenses or directing bonuses and raises straight into savings.

In Your 60s: Protect What You’ve Built

If retirement is just around the corner, your focus shifts from growth to security. Review your investments to ensure your portfolio isn’t carrying unnecessary risk. Pay down as much debt as possible before you stop working, and build a clear picture of your monthly retirement expenses. Consider meeting with a financial advisor to map out income sources like Social Security, pensions, and savings withdrawals.

The Bottom Line

No matter your age, the most important step is to begin. Retirement savings grow with consistency, and even modest contributions can add up over time. It’s never too late to improve your financial future—what matters most is taking action today.

Teaching Kids About Money

Money isn’t just about dollars and cents—it’s about choices, habits, and confidence. The way children see us spend, save, and talk about money shapes their lifelong approach to financial wellness. The best part? You don’t need to sit them down with a textbook or a lecture. Everyday life offers dozens of natural opportunities to teach kids how money works in a way that’s simple, practical, and even fun.

Start with Everyday Moments

Children learn best when lessons feel connected to their world. Grocery shopping, paying bills, or setting aside allowance money can become powerful teaching tools. The key is to turn what you’re already doing into mini financial lessons.

By framing money in terms kids can see and touch, you help them understand it’s not just something that comes out of an ATM or appears in an app—it’s earned, saved, and spent with thought.

Tailor Lessons by Age

Elementary Years (ages 5–10): This is the perfect stage for the basics. Use chores and allowances to connect effort with reward. Encourage them to save for small goals like a toy or treat. Simple conversations about needs vs. wants can go a long way.

Middle School (ages 11–13): As independence grows, so can money lessons. Let kids help budget for back-to-school shopping or compare grocery prices. Talk openly about family saving goals—like a vacation—and show them how small sacrifices add up.

High School (ages 14–18): This is when lessons should shift to real-world preparation. Open a checking account together, discuss credit and debt, and let teens track their own expenses (gas, clothes, entertainment). A part-time job can become a real-life classroom in budgeting, saving, and paying taxes.

Encourage Saving and Generosity

An easy system for kids is the “three jar method”: one for saving, one for spending, and one for sharing. This helps them learn balance early—money isn’t just for instant gratification, it’s also for future goals and helping others.

Lead by Example

Perhaps the most important lesson kids learn about money is through what they see. If you talk openly about budgeting, save for emergencies, and avoid impulse spending, they’ll notice. Modeling positive behavior is more powerful than any lecture.

Why It Matters

Children who grow up understanding money feel more confident making decisions as adults. They’re more likely to budget, avoid unnecessary debt, and build healthy savings habits. Teaching these skills now isn’t just about nickels and dimes—it’s about giving kids the tools to thrive in the future.

Understanding Your Credit Score

When it comes to personal finance, few numbers matter more than your credit score. Think of it as your financial report card — a three-digit snapshot of how reliably you manage debt. Lenders, landlords, and sometimes even employers use it to measure how trustworthy you are with money. A strong score can open doors to lower interest rates, better loan approvals, and even housing opportunities.

What Goes Into Your Score?

Your credit score isn’t random — it’s calculated based on a few key factors:

1. Payment History (35%) – Do you pay bills on time? Even one late payment can drag your score down.

2. Credit Utilization (30%) – How much of your available credit are you using? Experts recommend staying below 30% of your total limit.

3. Length of Credit History (15%) – The longer you’ve had accounts open, the better. Closing old accounts can actually hurt your score.

4. New Credit (10%) – Too many applications in a short time can make lenders nervous.

5. Credit Mix (10%) – A variety of accounts (credit cards, loans, mortgage) shows you can handle different types of credit responsibly.
   

Common Misconceptions

One of the biggest myths is that checking your credit score lowers it. That’s not true — checking your own score is considered a “soft inquiry” and has no impact. In fact, reviewing it regularly is one of the smartest moves you can make, because you’ll catch mistakes or signs of fraud early.

Improving Your Score

If your score isn’t where you want it, don’t panic. Start with the basics:

• Pay every bill on time.

• Pay down high-interest credit card balances.
  
  

The Secret Cost of Convenience

We live in a world where almost everything can be delivered with the tap of a button. Food, clothes, groceries, and entertainment are easier to access than ever before. But convenience often comes at a price — and those small fees and markups can quietly drain your budget.

Think about your past month. Did you order takeout instead of cooking? Add one more streaming service to the list? Use “buy now, pay later” for a quick purchase? None of these things are bad on their own, but together they can add up to hundreds of dollars each year.

Here’s a look at some common convenience habits and how the costs stack up:

How to Take Back Control

• Pick your favorites. Keep the 1–2 conveniences that bring you the most joy and cut the rest.
  

• Set a cap. Budget a set amount for delivery, subscriptions, or extras each month.
  

• DIY where you can. Cooking at home or brewing coffee doesn’t just save money — it can become a ritual you enjoy.

How to Build an Emergency Fund (Even on a Tight Budget)

If there’s one financial habit that brings peace of mind, it’s having an emergency fund. Unexpected expenses happen to everyone—car repairs, medical bills, home fixes—and without a cushion, those moments can throw your entire budget into chaos. The good news? You don’t need a huge paycheck to start building financial security. Even if money feels tight, small steps add up.

Start Small and Stay Consistent

An emergency fund doesn’t have to start with thousands of dollars. Begin with what feels realistic—$10, $20, or even the cost of a weekly coffee run. Set that money aside every week, and within a year you’ll already have a few hundred dollars saved. The key isn’t the size of your contributions but the consistency.

Keep It Separate

It’s tempting to dip into extra money sitting in your checking account. That’s why experts recommend opening a separate savings account for emergencies only. Out of sight, out of mind—until you really need it. Many banks and credit unions allow you to create sub-accounts with no extra fees, making it easier to keep your emergency stash untouched.

Automate the Process

One of the simplest ways to save is to take the decision-making out of it. Set up an automatic transfer the day after payday. When the money moves before you even see it, you’ll be less tempted to skip a contribution.

Remember: Progress Over Perfection

It’s easy to feel like saving isn’t worth it if you can’t put away hundreds at a time. But even small amounts create momentum. Your goal is progress, not perfection. Over time, those small deposits grow into a safety net that keeps life’s surprises from becoming full-blown crises.

Building an emergency fund may feel slow at first, but every dollar saved is one step closer to peace of mind.

5 Quick Fixes for a Healthier Budget

Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. Try these quick adjustments to see results fast:

1. Review subscriptions – cancel anything you don’t use regularly.

2. Set up auto-pay – avoid costly late fees by automating bills.

3. Cut one meal out – cook at home once more per week to save $40–$60.

4. Shop with a list – keeps impulse buys out of the cart.

5. Round up purchases – use apps or bank features to sweep change into savings.
   

Small shifts like these can add up to hundreds of dollars saved each month.

Fitness for the Mind: Inside Liberty Village’s Memory Lane Program

In January 2021, Liberty Village of Geneseo launched Memory Lane – Fitness for the Mind, a new wing specifically designed for Assisted Living residents with dementia or dementia-related illnesses. This 30-room addition complements the retirement community's existing independent and assisted living apartments. Every element, from the flooring to the ceiling designs resembling the sky, is tailored to enhance the environment for those with cognitive challenges. 

Memory Lane – Fitness for the Mind has a mission to Exercise the Brain, Enhance Memory, and Maintain Independence for residents experiencing mild to moderate dementia. The program focuses on individual strengths, creating personalized therapeutic activities that nurture existing memory function. While dementia cannot be reversed, the goal is to ensure that each resident's life is of good quality. Programs are crafted based on thorough assessments of each resident's unique capabilities, promoting independence through the Memory in Motion programming and encouraging individuals to engage as much as possible with the necessary support from Memory Care Specialists.

Research indicates that establishing a routine is crucial for individuals with dementia. Memory Lane offers various activities to improve daily living skills, sustain cognitive health, and facilitate social interactions through small and large groups, all rooted in a person-centered care approach. Fitness for the Mind aims to empower residents to thrive through their journey with dementia rather than merely surviving it.

Identifying potential signs of dementia can be challenging. Common indicators include forgetfulness, misplacing items, and repetitive storytelling. However, subtle signs may emerge during family gatherings where individuals remain quiet, suggesting they struggle to keep up or fear revealing their memory issues. Caregivers often experience difficulty recognizing these symptoms, as loved ones may mask their challenges effectively. Telephone conversations might reveal vague responses to specific questions, providing false reassurance about their cognitive status.

Liberty Village offers a comprehensive assessment process conducted by trained professionals, which lasts at least 45 minutes. This evaluation involves engaging with both the resident and family members to gauge the individual's current stage of dementia. The service is free and comes with no obligation, helping families determine the appropriate level of care for their loved one.

Deciding when to transition a loved one to a care facility can be daunting, especially for caregivers who may feel guilt or grief. Liberty Village aims to alleviate these burdens, emphasizing that seeking assistance shows love and dedication. Residents often thrive once they adjust to the supportive environment of Memory Lane, allowing them to connect with others who understand their experiences. Family members can then focus on their relationships rather than caregiving tasks, visiting their loved ones without the stress of daily care responsibilities.

Additionally, Liberty Village hosts a Dementia Support Group every third Tuesday of the month, providing caregivers with a space to share experiences and seek support. The community encourages anyone needing assistance or companionship to reach out, ensuring they are not alone in this journey. Interested individuals are also invited to tour Memory Lane – Fitness for the Mind, where they can witness firsthand the commitment to enhancing the lives of those with dementia.  Call for more information: 309-944-0460.

Hillcrest Nursing Home Currently In COVID Outbreak Status

RaeAnn Tucker
Director of Health Promotion
Henry County Health Department

    The Hillcrest Nursing Home, the Henry County Office of Emergency Management and the Henry County Health Department announce that a Covid Outbreak has been confirmed at Hillcrest Nursing Home, Geneseo, IL.  To qualify as an outbreak, a facility must have three or more confirmed cases of Covid amongst residents and/or staff, within a 72 hour time period.

     Hillcrest reached this outbreak status as of last Wednesday, August 6th and they immediately initiated their set infection mitigation protocols and advised the Henry County Health Department and Henry County Office of Emergency Management in consulting and supportive roles. 

     The nursing home will be limiting visitors during this time; and staff and residents will be using PPE (Personal Protective Equipment); and heighten other infection control measures in order to stem further infections. 

     The nursing home has noted that thus far, for the most part, case symptoms are relatively mild.  However, any infection outbreaks must be dealt with seriously when in an “at-risk” facility with a possibly immunocompromised population.

     The Henry County Office of Emergency Management is making sure the nursing home has ample supplies of PPE; and the Health Department will continue to advise and monitor the nursing home and its administrative staff during this outbreak.