Public Health
Public health focuses on the health of people and the communities where we live, learn, work, and play. Doctors treat individuals. Public health professionals work to PREVENT people from getting sick or injured. They also promote wellness by encouraging healthy behaviors.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought the need for strong public health measures into the spotlight. But that is just one issue, one virus that is being monitored.
In fact, the American Public Health Association prioritizes 30 or more issues at a time. In addition to COVID-19, the APHA is working on Polio, Monkeypox, Suicide, Healthy Housing, Gun Violence, Climate Change, Racism and Health, Transportation, Vaccines, and many more.
Prevention measures are key to keeping yourself and those around you safe. Some of the ways you can do that:
Routine checkups and well visits
Staying up to date with vaccinations
Paying attention to your emotional well-being
Following recommended public health precautions such as washing hands, masking when necessary, staying home when sick,