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

Keeping your pets safe around fireworks

03 Jul, 25

While many find joy celebrating Independence Day with fireworks, it gives our pets high anxiety. Harris County Pets Animal Behaviorist, Lisa Tynan says that the Fourth of July is one of the busiest nights that animals get lost.

These Houston-area animal shelters are participating in the Empty the Shelters event starting July 5

03 Jul, 25

Harris County Pets, Harris County Public Health's animal shelter, will lower adoption fees to $30 for dogs, $60 for puppies, $25 for kittens and $10 for cats.

PRESS RELEASES

Protect your furry family members during the Fourth of July celebration

30 Jun, 25

With the Fourth of July fast approaching, Harris County Pets (HCP), a division of Harris County Public Health, is reminding all pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their pets safe and calm during holiday festivities.

Harris County Public Health Reports First West Nile Virus Human Case This Year

20 Jun, 25

Harris County Public Health (HCPH) has confirmed the first West Nile virus (WNV) human case in 2025 in unincorporated Harris County (excluding the City of Houston). An adult male in eastern Harris County tested positive for West Nile virus and has made a full recovery.

Buzz Off, Mosquitoes! It’s National Mosquito Control Awareness Week

16 Jun, 25

National Mosquito Control Awareness Week is June 15–21, and Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is joining health departments across the country to remind everyone how important mosquito control is for protecting public health.

HCPH Launches New Wastewater Dashboard to Track COVID-19

12 Jun, 25

HCPH’s new dashboard will give community members in Harris County the opportunity to identify COVID-19 viral presence in their communities and make informed decisions to protect themselves from the virus.

Celebrate Dad with the Gift of Health this June

06 Jun, 25

HOUSTON—Men die an average of five years earlier than women, and often from preventable causes. This significant disparity highlights the importance of proactive health measures for men. This June, in recognition of Men’s Health Month and Father’s Day, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) encourages men to prioritize their health and well-being. From chronic disease screenings to preventive care, HCPH offers vital resources to help dads—and all men—lead longer, healthier lives.