Public Health

Harris County, Texas, serves as home to one of the largest and most diverse populations in the United States. As such, ensuring the health and well-being of its residents is a monumental task. Harris County Public Health (HCPH) plays a crucial role in maintaining public health by addressing both acute and chronic health concerns, while promoting community health initiatives to prevent the spread of diseases. This article provides a detailed exploration of Harris County Public Health, its departments, services, and the various programs that help safeguard the health of its residents.

Harris County Public Health Mission and Vision

The mission of Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is to protect health, prevent disease and injury, and promote the overall health and well-being of everyone in the county. The vision is to create a Harris County where all residents can achieve their full potential for health and well-being.

HCPH works across various sectors, from disease prevention to community wellness, emergency preparedness, and environmental health, to ensure that these goals are met effectively. The department adheres to guiding values that emphasize leadership, collaboration, service excellence, quality, and professionalism.

Divisions of Harris County Public Health

Harris County Public Health is structured into multiple divisions, each specializing in different aspects of public health. These divisions work together to provide comprehensive services to the community.

Environmental Public Health Division

The Environmental Public Health (EPH) Division plays a significant role in safeguarding public health through regulatory enforcement and educational programs. The division is responsible for monitoring food safety, pool safety, water quality, and lead hazard control. It also responds to public complaints related to environmental health, such as foodborne illnesses and unsafe public spaces.

Key functions of the Environmental Public Health Division include:

Food Safety Program: Ensures that food establishments comply with health codes to protect consumers.

Neighborhood Nuisance: Addresses concerns related to abandoned buildings and unsafe structures.

Lead Hazard Control: Works to reduce lead exposure, particularly in homes with young children.

For more information on these services, visit the Environmental Public Health Division.

Community Health & Wellness Division

The Community Health & Wellness Division offers community-based, preventive health services. Through programs such as Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Immunization, and HIV/STI Prevention, the division provides essential healthcare services to eligible individuals in the community. The division focuses on addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women, children, and those affected by chronic diseases.

In addition, the division is actively involved in:

Behavioral Health Services: Supporting mental health well-being through various outreach programs.

Substance Use Prevention: Offering education and resources to reduce substance abuse within the community.

To learn more about services provided by the Community Health & Wellness Division, visit Community Health & Wellness Division.

Public Health Preparedness & Response Division

The Public Health Preparedness & Response Division is responsible for preparing the county for public health emergencies, including disease outbreaks, natural disasters, and other health crises. This division works to ensure that the community is ready to respond and recover from various emergencies.

Services provided by the division include:

Emergency Response: Coordinating efforts to manage health emergencies and protect the public during a crisis.

Preparedness Programs: Training and educating the public and first responders on how to deal with potential health threats, from pandemics to natural disasters.

Find more information on this division at Public Health Preparedness & Response Division.

Mosquito & Vector Control Division

The Mosquito & Vector Control Division is crucial in preventing mosquito-borne diseases, such as West Nile Virus, Zika, and dengue. The division uses an Integrated Vector Management (IVM) approach to control and prevent the spread of these diseases.

Key activities of the division include:

Surveillance: Monitoring mosquito populations and testing for diseases.

Control Measures: Implementing measures such as spraying and removing standing water to reduce mosquito breeding.

Public Education: Raising awareness about how residents can protect themselves from mosquito bites.

Learn more about the Mosquito & Vector Control Division here: Mosquito & Vector Control Division.

Veterinary Public Health Division

The Veterinary Public Health Division focuses on ensuring the health and safety of both animals and humans in Harris County. This division plays a key role in managing issues related to zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans. It also oversees animal control and safety programs.

This division is involved in:

Animal Control: Responding to public safety concerns related to stray animals and ensuring proper animal sheltering.

Rabies Control: Preventing the spread of rabies through surveillance, vaccinations, and education.

Public Education: Promoting responsible pet ownership and animal welfare in the community.

To find more details on the Veterinary Public Health Division, visit Veterinary Public Health Division.

Services Provided by Harris County Public Health

Harris County Public Health offers a wide array of services designed to improve the health of the community. These services are available to residents of all ages and backgrounds, especially those in vulnerable populations.

Mobile Health Clinics

HCPH’s mobile health clinics bring essential health services directly to communities across Harris County. These clinics offer free and low-cost services, including immunizations, health screenings, and wellness checks. The mobile clinics serve both adults and children, ensuring that healthcare access is available to those who may have difficulty visiting a clinic.

For more information about mobile health services, visit Mobile Health Clinics.

Vaccination Programs

HCPH actively promotes vaccination to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Through clinics and outreach programs, residents are encouraged to get vaccinated against common illnesses, including the flu, measles, and other preventable diseases.

Learn more about vaccination programs through Immunization Program.

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

The WIC program provides nutrition and health assistance to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to five years old. The program offers access to healthy foods, breastfeeding support, and referrals to healthcare services.

Find more details on the WIC program at Women, Infants, and Children.

Behavioral Health Services

The Behavioral Health Services program supports individuals struggling with mental health issues, substance use disorders, and behavioral challenges. By providing access to counseling, therapy, and support groups, HCPH works to improve the mental health and overall well-being of residents.

To learn more about Behavioral Health Services, visit Behavioral Health Services.

Public Health Alerts and Notifications

Harris County Public Health maintains a vigilant eye on emerging health threats, from disease outbreaks to environmental hazards. Through its press releases and updates, HCPH keeps residents informed on public health issues that could impact the community.

To stay updated with the latest news, visit the Press Releases page.

Key Contacts for Harris County Public Health

For more information on Harris County Public Health, contact the relevant department listed below:

Harris County Public Health — Main Office
Main Switchboard: 713-439-6000
Harris County Public Health

Environmental Public Health Division
Phone: 713-274-6300
Environmental Public Health Division

Community Health & Wellness Division
General Inquiries: 713-439-6000
Patient Appointment Call Center: 832-927-7350
Community Health & Wellness Division

Health Services — Humble Clinic
Phone: 832-927-7350
Health Services

Mosquito & Vector Control Division
Phone: 713-274-6300
Mosquito & Vector Control Division

Veterinary Public Health Division
Phone: 713-274-6300
Veterinary Public Health Division

Harris County Public Health FAQs

How can I access mobile health services in Harris County?

Harris County Public Health offers mobile health services to residents across the county. These services are provided at no cost to eligible individuals, focusing on underserved communities. To request mobile health services, you can visit their Mobile Clinics page for more details. No appointments are needed, and walk-ins are welcome. Services range from vaccinations to basic health screenings, helping to ensure that essential healthcare reaches all corners of the county.

What is Harris County's approach to disease prevention?

Harris County Public Health (HCPH) plays a critical role in preventing the spread of diseases through its various divisions. The department responds to outbreaks, manages chronic disease prevention programs, and oversees vaccination initiatives. One of its key programs is the Immunization Program, which works to keep the population protected from preventable diseases like the flu, measles, and more. These services are designed to protect community health and reduce the risk of widespread health threats.

How does HCPH ensure food safety?

The Environmental Public Health Division of Harris County Public Health works diligently to ensure food safety across the county. With responsibility for inspecting over 8,000 food establishments, the division ensures compliance with food safety regulations. Residents can report issues such as foodborne illnesses through the Foodborne Illness and Food Complaints page. The division also handles food permits, ensuring that food businesses meet strict hygiene and safety standards.

What is the role of HCPH in environmental health?

HCPH’s Environmental Public Health Division focuses on maintaining a safe environment for residents. The division’s responsibilities include monitoring air and water quality, inspecting public pools, and managing neighborhood nuisance issues like abandoned properties. These efforts are crucial in preventing environmental hazards that can negatively impact public health. For more information on the services provided, visit their Environmental Public Health Division page.

How does Harris County Public Health address mental health?

Harris County Public Health also prioritizes mental health through its Behavioral Health Services division. The program offers services that support mental well-being, such as counseling, substance abuse prevention, and crisis intervention. HCPH promotes mental health awareness and works to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues in the community. The division collaborates with local organizations to provide comprehensive support to those in need.