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Blog Posts
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Take a mindful nature walk
The next time you want to really appreciate your time in nature or want to practice some self-care, take a moment to enjoy a mindful nature walk....
overdose awareness day event
International Overdose Awareness Day 2026
A few years ago, I wrote a blog post about International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) that happens every August 31st. It is sad to say that we still...
person watching television
Do you comfort view?
Lately, I have caught myself in a habit of rewatching the same television shows rather than finding new shows to explore. I wondered if there was...
Little boy playing in sand on the beach
Your guide to smart sun protection
It’s that time of the year! Ball games, cookouts, picnics, bike riding, swimming, and all kinds of fun in the sun. However, if you find yourself and...
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News Releases
Brain health series expands to Ogden community
ODGEN, Ill – Illinois Extension invites the Ogden community to Brain Health - It's a No-Brainer! Join Health and Family Educator Emily Harmon for this research-informed series at the Ogden Rose Public Library (103 W Main St, Ogden, IL 61859). This free four-part series educates adults on aging,...
Diabetes word with fruits and vegetables int he background
University of Illinois Extension offers Diabetes 101 educational series
FREEPORT, Ill.--- Diabetes touches millions of lives every day. Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed, have been living with diabetes for years, or are supporting a loved one, you’re not alone. With the right information and support, diabetes can be managed, and healthy living...
Portrait of the researchers standing in front of a map of Illinois with tick species indicated on the map.
New study reinforces the need for year-round tick awareness in Illinois
URBANA, Ill — A new study has reported a “dramatic growth” in the number of human cases of tick-borne disease between 2004 and 2022. The University of Illinois study also found that tick-borne diseases were reported in every month of the year and in every Illinois county, underscoring the...
A small tick is visible on a human hand
Tick concerns are growing: What Illinois residents need to know
URBANA, Ill. — For some residents, a walk through a park or an afternoon in the backyard brings a new level of anxiety thanks to growing concerns about ticks and the diseases they carry. This fear can lead people to limit outdoor activity out of concern that they may be bitten. As reports of...
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Videos
Enjoying the Outdoors and Staying Safe in the Sun

Illinois Extension 4-H Educator Melissa Wilson explores how to stay safe in the sun while playing outdoors. Learn about different types of UV rays, what SPF means, and how to protect yourself from a sunburn. This video includes a hands-on learning activity you can do at home by purchasing UV...

Staff
jennifer mccaffrey

Jennifer McCaffrey

Assistant Dean, Health and Community Wellness; Executive Director, Center for Food Systems, Nutrition Security, and Health Integration