This week the Knox County Health Department recognizes National Public Health Week. This year’s theme is Centering and Celebrating Cultures in Health. By Working together, we can make it easier for communities to access the public health resources they need to achieve the highest level of health.
This National Public Health Week, join the Knox County Board of Health and KCHD staff in engaging all communities and all sectors in a conversation about the role each of us can play to put good health within everyone’s reach. “We can change our future as a society if we all make healthy choices.
The public health progress being made in Knox County is a result of efforts in public health areas including communicable disease; emergency preparedness; inspections of food establishments, private water and septic systems; childhood lead poisoning prevention; community education; public health planning; coalition participation; and much more. In year 2022:
- 617 food service establishments were inspected
- 35 private sewage systems installed
- 8 potable water wells installed
- 274 STD tests provided through the program
- 932 immunizations provided to children
- 375 immunizations provided to adults
- 3,340 total LIHEAP (Energy Assistance) applications
- 1,682 total LIHWAP (Water Assistance) applications
Every day and during times of emergencies, public health departments make our country a healthier and safer place to live and work. Public health aims to prevent health threats before they occur. Although responsible for much more, public health prevents the spread of disease and chronic conditions that impact the health status of a community. Across the county, public health departments bring people together in emergencies and provide regular assistance to their communities and continue to evolve to meet their needs.
We celebrate the unique and joyful ways different culture focus on health. And we look to how we can learn from each other, with humility and openness. We hope that you join us as it takes working together to make Knox County, and beyond, the healthiest. For more information regarding National Public Health Week please visit www.nphw.org or call us at 309-344-2224.
Erin Olson
Director of Wellness/Public Information Officer
LIHEAP/LIHWAP Co-Coordinator
Knox County Health Department
