With well millions of people expected to make their way through the gates of the Minnesota State Fair this year, keeping them healthy, is no easy task.
Regions Hospital EMS is providing first aid for its 16th consecutive state fair. As one might expect, medical providers at the fair have seen just about everything.
"Commonly we'll see environmental exposures," said Dr. Haley Taormina, one of the medical directors at the Minnesota State Fair. "It's hot here, heat exposures, dehydration, headaches from being outside walking. We'll also see people have food allergies or bee stings that have anaphylactic reactions, so we see that pretty commonly."
Taormina says there are over 4,500 visits to state fair medical aid stations throughout the fair's 12-day run.
"With over 2 million people coming to the state fair, we see everything an emergency department would see that serves 2 million people."
There are basic tips to follow when it comes to keeping yourself healthy while spending a long day at the Great Minnesota Get-Together.
"Be mindful of the weather when you are coming, early in the day or later in the evening you avoid that peak sun exposure," Taormina added. "Make sure you're brining plenty of sunscreen and protective clothing like hats and moisture wicking material."
First Aid East and West locations offer a number of different services, if-needed, including walk-up windows to help address any and all health matters.
"We're always happy to help out with Band-Aids, Tylenol, ibuprofen, and whatever medical emergency comes at the Minnesota State Fair."
