National Public Health Week, observed April 6 through 12, recognized programs that impact health at the local, state and national levels.
Missouri houses 115 local public health agencies — one in each of the state's 114 counties and the city of St. Louis — that work independently but closely with state agencies to meet community needs. At the federal level, public health services are provided by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHSS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institutes of Health, and the Food and Drug Administration.
“Public health touches every part of life in Missouri, from access to clean water and safe food to emergency preparedness, maternal and child health, chronic disease prevention, behavioral health, and so much more,” said Missouri DHSS Director Sarah Willson. “National Public Health Week gives us a chance to recognize these efforts and to celebrate the individuals and teams who keep our communities safe.”
The Howell County Health Department is headquartered in West Plains, but provides services such as the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and immunizations one day a month at clinics in Willow Springs and Mtn. View.
In addition to those services, the department provides emergency assistance during natural disasters, inspect restaurants and grocery stores to help ensure food safety, works to control the spread of communicable diseases and educates with the aim of prevention of chronic health conditions including heart disease, diabetes and stroke.
“Public health is how we look after one another every day,” said Howell County Health Department Director Justin Frazier. “Simple actions, from getting recommended screenings and vaccinations to checking on a neighbor, add up to a safer, healthier community. During National Public Health Week we encourage everyone to learn one new way to protect their health and the health of others.”
