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

HMPV: What are the symptoms of the respiratory virus and how does it spread?

07 Jan, 25

Harris County Public Health reported no new cases or outbreaks of HMPV in the public health's jurisdiction as of Monday. The last HMPV outbreak in the jurisdiction happened in April 2024 at a long-term care facility.

From statistic to birth hero: How a midwife is solving Houston’s Black maternal health crisis

06 Jan, 25

Despite being home to the largest medical center in the world, Harris County has also faced one of the highest rates of Black maternal and infant mortality in Texas and the U.S., consistently exceeding state or national averages since 2016, according to a 2024 maternal and infant health report by Harris County Public Health.

PRESS RELEASES

Know What’s at Stake for Improving Maternal Health

23 Jan, 25

Every year, about 50,000 mothers and birthing persons in the United States face serious health complications during pregnancy, and some of these complications sadly lead to death. The most alarming part of the crisis is that 80% of these deaths could be prevented. Unfortunately, Harris County has the third-highest maternal death rate in the country, highlighting the urgent need to improve maternal health.

Prevent Health Risks During Cold Weather

17 Jan, 25

The temperature in our area is expected to drop to dangerously low levels on Sunday. Preparing in advance can put your mind at ease and keep you and your family safe.