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

Harris County Takes Action to Combat Prematurity and Support Families During Prematurity Awareness Month

13 Nov, 24

November is Prematurity Awareness Month, a time to bring attention to the challenges that premature births pose to families and communities. In Harris County, the statistics are concerning: in 2022, the preterm birth rate was 12.1%, higher than the national average of 10.4%, with one in every eight babies born prematurely.

Harris County health experts concerned about Houstonians’ heart health

05 Nov, 24

Heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease and cancer are the top leading causes of death in Harris County, according to the latest chronic disease report. Harris County Public Health will host two webinars this month to discuss the report’s findings with the public.

PRESS RELEASES

Building a Healthier Harris County: New Plan to Strengthen Health Access and Equity

13 Nov, 24

Harris County Public Health (HCPH) is pleased to announce the release of the 2024-2029 Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP). This comprehensive plan is designed to guide public health efforts over the next five years and align priorities and resources among local organizations to address three priority health issues in Harris County.

Prematurity Affects Too Many Families in Harris County

HOUSTON – Premature birth is a global concern affecting millions of families each year. November is Prematurity Awareness Month—a necessary time to raise awareness of the maternal and infant health crisis of preterm birth. This month also marks World Prematurity Day, observed on November 17. HCPH will continue to raise awareness about this critical issue affecting families across Harris County.