Wood County introduces public health vending machines in areas affected by overdoses

WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. (WKBT) -- Six vending machines are launched in Wood County aimed at providing the public with resources to combat overdose and overdose deaths.

Wisconsin Rapids and Marshfield each have three vending machines stocked with a range of items including CPR kits, personal hygiene kits, Narcan, fentanyl and xylazine test kits, first aid kits, gunlocks, hand wipes, and sharps containers.

The vending machines are strategically placed in locations most impacted by overdoses, according to the health department.

"We are excited to introduce these public health vending machines to our community. This initiative reflects our commitment to improving public health in communities most impacted by overdoses and overdose deaths," said Sue Smith, Wood County Health Department Director and Health Officer. "Having these machines in convenient locations removes barriers to accessing lifesaving resources and information."

The public can find the public health vending machines at the following locations:

Wisconsin Rapids

• Aftermath Tattoo - 3620 8th Street South
• Mid-State Technical College - 500 32nd Street North (door E-1)
• Wood County River Block - 111 W Jackson Street (1st floor)

Marshfield

• Mid-State Technical College - 2600 West 5th Street (door J)
• Family Health Center - 630 S Central Ave (6th floor)
• St. Vincent de Paul - 169 N Central Ave (pantry entrance)

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