The Christian County Health Department has installed a new harm reduction vending machine aimed at preventing opioid overdoses in the community.

The machine is located outside the health department building and provides free, 24-hour access to lifesaving supplies. Items available include naloxone, also known as Narcan, fentanyl test strips, and other public health and safety materials. The machine can be accessed anonymously at any time, day or night.

Funding for the project came from the Christian County State’s Attorney’s Office using resources from the Opioid Settlement Fund.

Dr. Chad Anderson, Public Health Administrator for Christian County, says the goal is to remove barriers to care and make sure help is available when it’s needed most. Anderson notes that both naloxone and fentanyl test strips have been proven to save lives and reduce overdose deaths.

Naloxone can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, while fentanyl test strips help identify the presence of fentanyl in substances, reducing the risk of accidental overdoses. Public health officials say increased access to these tools also leads to greater engagement with treatment and recovery services.

The vending machine is part of the health department’s broader effort to address substance use disorder through education, evidence-based strategies, and community partnerships.

For more information, residents can contact the Christian County Health Department.