This week, the American Public Health Association (APHA) observes National Public Health Week (NPHW). Since 1995, communities around the country have celebrated NPHW each April to draw attention to the need to help protect and improve the nation’s health. The 2012 campaign, titled “A Healthier America Begins Today: Join the Movement,” focuses on building awareness around prevention.
Today, APHA recognizes the role of preventing communicable disease in promoting public health. Each year, 1 million Americans die of preventable, communicable diseases. APHA offers some tips to slow the spread of such diseases. Among the most important actions individuals can take include hand-washing, proper food preparation, and vaccination.
“National Public Health Week helps educate Americans about ways to live healthier lives. The events that take place this year will help construct an America that is more aware and focused on preventing illness and enhancing its overall health and well-being,” said Georges C. Benjamin, MD, FACP, FACEP (E), executive director of the American Public Health Association. “Our ultimate goal is to make America the healthiest nation in one generation. Taking simple preventive steps within our families and our communities will help create healthier communities.”
The Disease Daily challenges its readers to become more involved with disease surveillance in their communities. Readers can submit news articles or eyewitness reports to HealthMap using the “Outbreak Missing?” link on our homepage. Smartphone users can use Outbreaks Near Me to submit a report directly from their phones. Finally, consider becoming an active participant in flu surveillance by registering for Flu Near You, HealthMap’s influenza surveillance project with partners APHA and the Skoll Global Threats Fund.
For more about National Public Health Week, visit www.nphw.org.