The 2023 Illinois State Fair in Springfield welcomes the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to offer vital health and safety services. From August 10 to August 20, fairgoers can access free immunizations, physicals, dental exams for school-aged children, and firearm safety initiatives.

IDPH, in partnership with Mobile Care Chicago, provides free immunizations and physicals for school-aged children at the Illinois Building booth. This service is available on August 11 and 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days. Requirements for immunizations and physicals are outlined by state law and are detailed on the IDPH website.

Free dental examinations for school-aged children are offered on August 15 and 18, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the IDPH booth at the Illinois Building.

IDPH, along with the Illinois State Police, distributes free gun locks at the fair. These locks, provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, are part of the "Together for a Safer Illinois" program. The initiative aims to prevent accidents, gun violence, theft, and suicide. Locks come with installation instructions and information about the national 988 suicide and crisis lifeline.

Beyond medical services, IDPH emphasizes food safety through vendor inspections, ensuring compliance with regulations to protect fairgoers' health.

The IDPH tent and booths offer informational materials about the agency's services and potential employment opportunities.

IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra encourages Illinoisans to make use of these public health resources during the State Fair. To learn more, visit dph.illinois.gov or illinoisstatefair.info.