Throughout the month of April, Clark County Public Health has been celebrating Public Health as an extension of National Public Health Week (April 4-10). Clark County Public Health's Facebook page is currently sharing information about all the different programs offered by the department.
What is public health?
Clark County Public Health collaborates with partners to protect and improve the health of and the environment for all people in Clark County. Together we:
- Prevent disease and injury.
- Promote healthier choices.
- Promote healthier choices.
- Prepare for and respond to emergencies
One of the first and most widely known public health studies was completed by John Snow in 19th century London. After outbreaks of cholera in his community, he concluded that drinking water was the primary source of contamination. John Snow then conducted a survey on whether those infected with cholera drank from a local water pump and determined the source was indeed the Broad Street water pump in downtown London. After taking his findings to city officials, it still took years for improvements to be made. John Snow's background as a medical professional and his investigative research laid the building blocks for modern day epidemiology and public health. Clark County-City Public Health was established in 1929 and while undergoing changes in partnership and leadership, it has been serving our community for almost a century. Through the actions of local public health organizations, community members have improved safety, hygiene, immunization, and overall quality of life.
Why is public health important?
Public health is vital to community well-being. Communities that are healthy, informed, and supported are more resilient and capable of overcoming threats to local and national health and safety. A community and government that is active in maintaining public health also supports health care equity, quality, and accessibility.
How does Green Neighbors fit into public health?
Green Neighbors and the Green Teams (Master Composter Recyclers, Green Business and Green Schools) promote the health of Clark County citizens and the environment we live, work and recreate in. Our work includes topics like household hazardous waste, food waste prevention, and contamination in our recycling. We partner with community organizations to provide resources and tools to live more sustainably. Green Neighbors also offers programming and events that cover natural gardening and waste reduction. Our work benefits the health of the public by reducing environmental contaminants and protecting our natural resources, like the nine county watersheds or 2,300+ plant species native to the state.
For more information about Clark County Public Health visit https://clark.wa.gov/public-health.
To learn more about National Public Health week visit https://nphw.org/.