NWTC in Aurora, Wis. is one site in Florence County for a public health vending machine recently stocked by Alisha Krenske of the Florence County Health Department.

FLORENCE, Wis. — A new free community resource is now available in Florence County at two locations. The Florence County Health Department placed public health vending machines at the Florence County Courthouse and NWTC in Aurora, Wis.

Public health vending machines are a harm reduction strategy to combat the impact of opioids and can also supply other prevention tools. The machines are stocked by the health department and provide life- saving materials including nasal naloxone, fentanyl test strips, gun locks and education with the intention to provide interventions in an emergency and prevent unnecessary death. The machines decrease barriers related to getting naloxone such as obtaining it from a doctor or pharmacy.

“This is one strategy that has been proven to prevent overdose deaths. We want to do everything we can to assist people to be drug free. By preventing an overdose, we give people another chance as response time is critical,” stated Health Officer Annette Seibold.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services awarded $41,230 in grant funds to Florence County Health Department for the public health vending machines and supplies. The money comes from the state’s $400 million opioid settlement.

For more information, call Alisha at 715-528-3426 with questions or go to WI DHS Opioid https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/opioids/settlement-funds.htm.

The Florence County Health Department is located on the first floor of the courthouse and is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or by appointment if needed.