Hardware

Erie County public health kiosk records nearly 800 transactions in first 3 weeks

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October 22, 2026

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A public health vending kiosk installed by the Erie County Department of Health in Pennsylvania has recorded nearly 800 transactions since launching Oct. 1, according to a YourErie.com report.

The machine provides free, around-the-clock access to health and wellness supplies, allowing residents to obtain essential products without visiting a medical facility or waiting for regular business hours.

The kiosk offers items including naloxone, commonly known by the brand name Narcan, emergency thermal blankets, hygiene products and other health supplies. Officials said COVID-19 and flu tests, emergency blankets and socks have been the most frequently requested products. The machine is intended to improve access to preventive health resources while providing residents with a convenient and discreet way to obtain supplies.

Ellen Hill, the department's health improvement and preparedness supervisor, told the news outlet the kiosk is particularly valuable for residents who cannot access services during normal working hours or prefer to obtain health supplies privately. The system allows users to select products without disclosing their choices to health department employees, helping reduce potential stigma associated with certain items. Hill said officials hope to expand the program and potentially add more products based on community demand.