About

Harris County Public Health (HCPH)

Throughout the years, HCPH has responded to public health issues such as rabies, mosquito-borne illnesses, air and water pollution, disease outbreaks, water and food-borne illnesses, natural disasters, tuberculosis, polio, and other communicable diseases. 
Public health is now battling new challenges. Each year brings new diseases, new chronic disease risks, and more natural and man-made disasters.

Latest from

Public Health

IN THE NEWS

Free Flu Vaccines Available for Houston Residents at Precinct 4 Community Centers

24 Nov, 25

Harris County Precinct 4 is expanding access to flu protection this season as Commissioner Lesley Briones, in partnership with Harris County Public Health (HCPH) and Harris Health, offers free flu vaccinations for children and adults at multiple community centers. With a new flu variant circulating and the busy holiday travel season approaching, officials are urging residents to get vaccinated as early as possible.

Harris County Public Health to offer free flu vaccines at Precinct 4 community centers

21 Nov, 25

Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones is partnering with Harris County Public Health and Harris Health to offer the flu vaccines.

“With a new flu variant circulating and the holiday travel season approaching, it is especially important that residents get vaccinated,” a Nov. 19 announcement reads.

PRESS RELEASES

Good Health Starts with Clean Hands: Handwashing Helps Protect You from Getting Sick

03 Dec, 25

In recognition of National Handwashing Awareness Week (Dec. 1–7) and as part of our commitment to community health, Harris County Public Health calls on community members to adopt proper hand-hygiene habits to help prevent the spread of illness and protect our families, workplaces, and schools.

World AIDS Day: Harris County Public Health Highlights the Importance of Treatment and Prevention

02 Dec, 25

Harris County continues to be impacted by HIV. Harris County Public Health (HCPH) HIV and STIs in Harris County Report shows that from 2016 to 2022, the rate of people living with HIV increased 17%, from 534 to 627 per 100,000 community members, higher than the Texas average. New diagnoses are highest among people ages 25–34, and Black and Multiracial communities are most affected. Without treatment, HIV can weaken the immune system and progress to AIDS, underscoring the ongoing need for testing, prevention, and care.

Shine Bright, Stay Safe: Harris County Public Health Shares Tips for a Fire-Safe Holiday Season

28 Nov, 25

The holiday season is a time to gather, decorate, and celebrate. As homes and neighborhoods across Harris County light up with holiday cheer, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) reminds everyone to pause and keep safety in mind. A little mindfulness can help prevent accidents and keep the season joyful for everyone.

A Safe Plate Makes a Great Holiday

26 Nov, 25

As families and friends gather for the holiday season, Harris County Public
Health (HCPH) is reminding the community to prioritize food safety. Holiday dishes often
involve cooking large amounts of food, preparing dishes ahead of time, and serving buffet-style.
These practices can increase the risk of foodborne illness if food is not handled safely.

Supporting Healthier Beginnings for Every Baby: HCPH Observes Prematurity Awareness Month

13 Nov, 25

Each November, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) joins partners across the nation to observe Prematurity Awareness Month and World Prematurity Day on Nov. 17, a global call to action to reduce premature births and support families affected by them.