Ila Jean Sirmans has lived in Echols County for nearly 40 years and has utilized the health department there for a long time.

Whether she is in need of immunizations, a health check or just needs more information, she knows the Echols County Health Department is always there to help her.

“Any time I have a medical concern or have questions, the staff are always happy to take the time to talk to me and find out what’s going on,” she explained.

Ila Jean spoke about her questions during the COVID-19 pandemic and how the health department was there for her to answer her questions.

“If I needed to know something about COVID, they were the best place to go,” said Ila Jean. “You know they will be honest and give you accurate information, but they don’t tell you what to do. They let you make up your mind.”

Ila Jean has one son and enjoys traveling when she is able, and she recognizes the important of staying healthy so she can be here for her son and to go places.

“If you want to be able to go and do things you have to make sure you are healthy.”

She also recognized that sometimes people might be afraid to go to the health department for various reasons.

“There’s no need to be scared. You know that when you are there they are going to take care of you. They are just like home.”