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

The Silent Crisis Shortening Men’s Lives — And Why Harris County Wants Fathers to Take Notice This June

06 Jun, 25

When it comes to health, many men tend to put others first—often delaying doctor visits or screenings until there's an urgent need. The numbers show it. Across the U.S., men die, on average, five years earlier than women. In Harris County, they're also more likely to suffer and die from heart disease, hypertension, lung cancer, and prostate cancer—most of which are preventable or treatable if caught early.

This June, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is marking Men’s Health Month by urging dads, brothers, sons, and husbands to rethink what strength looks like. “Preventive care isn’t weakness—it’s protection,”

Gun Violence Demands a Public Health Approach

04 Jun, 25

Harris County recognizes that gun violence is not just a law enforcement issue—it’s a public health emergency. Addressing it requires a comprehensive approach that targets the root causes of violence, strengthens social supports, and provides access to mental and behavioral health services.

To honor lives lost and raise awareness, HCPH encourages community members to participate in National Gun Violence Awareness Day on Friday, June 6, 2025, by wearing orange. This color symbolizes the value of life and a future free from violence.

PRESS RELEASES

Wellness on Wheels Rolls into Summer! Free Health Services, Family Fun, & More on June 13

10 Jun, 25

Harris County Public Health (HCPH), in collaboration with Harris County Precinct 1, invites you to a community celebration of health and wellness at the Wellness on Wheels Mobile Health Event on Friday, June 13, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the World Harvest Outreach Seventh-Day Adventist Church (10800 Scott St., Houston, TX 77047). This free, family-friendly event brings essential health resources directly to your neighborhood, all in one convenient stop.

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.

Gun Violence Demands a Public Health Approach

04 Jun, 25

Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is joining communities nationwide in observing Gun Violence Awareness Month this June. The initiative draws critical attention to the growing public health crisis of gun violence and reaffirms HCPH’s commitment to community-based prevention and healing.

Hurricane Season Starts Now—Be Prepared, Harris County!

01 Jun, 25

With the start of the 2025 hurricane season, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is encouraging all community members to take proactive steps to prepare for severe weather and potential public health impacts. Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and early planning is crucial for ensuring safety, well-being, and a smooth recovery.

No Smoke, Just Strength—Be Tobacco-Free Harris County

31 May, 25

Today is World No Tobacco Day, and Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is raising awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and the ongoing impact of deceptive marketing tactics aimed at youth. This year’s focus, “You Don’t Want the Smoke,” targets young people by suggesting better life choices contrary to how the tobacco and vaping industries downplay the risks of nicotine addiction.