Johnson County looks to add naloxone vending machines

IOWA CITY — Johnson County is planning to place six vending machines containing free doses of naloxone — a medication that works to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose — and other harm prevention items at places across the county later this year.

As of this week, the county has confirmed vending machines will be placed at the Coralville Public Library, North Liberty Public Library, Johnson County Health and Human Services building in Iowa City, and Deadwood Tavern in Iowa City. The county is looking to add two additional sites.

In addition to naloxone, the vending machines will contain Plan B emergency contraception, condoms, wound kits, sharps containers, gun locks and hygiene kits.

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“We're really hoping that our education campaigns gets folks to know that where these are at they get the supplies, so they have them on hand when they're at home, traveling with their friends, family or loved ones,” Sam Jarvis, community health division manager, told the Johnson County Board of Supervisors at a work session.

The Board allocated $100,000 for naloxone distribution from opioid settlement funds. The county still is finalizing a restocking plan and a date for machine installation.

In 2024, Linn County Public Health launched a similar program, placing seven machines with naloxone and other harm reduction tools at places throughout the county. Those machines also were funded in part by opioid settlement funds.

Comments: megan.woolard@thegazette.com

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