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

Opening obstacles: New Cy-Fair business owners navigate permitting processes

16 Sep, 25

Scott Jeansonne, director of the Environmental Public Health Division for the Harris County Public Health Department, said there were some significant statewide changes to food safety permitting implemented during this year’s legislative session. As a result, public health officials are updating local regulations to comply with state statutes for small businesses, defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration as any for-profit company with fewer than 50-250 employees, depending on industry.

Houston-area officials urge precautions after rabid stray cat found in Greensbrook Place

12 Sep, 25

Harris County Public Health officials urge Houston area residents to take precautions after a stray cat tested positive for rabies — the county's first confirmed case in a domestic animal since 2015.

PRESS RELEASES

Strong Teeth Mean Good Health: Highlighting Oral Health for All

06 Oct, 25

October is National Dental Hygiene Month, a time to recognize the importance of oral health and the essential role dental hygienists play in supporting community health. This year’s theme, “Good Oral Health is Overall Health!” reminds community members that taking care of their teeth and gums is an important step toward protecting their overall well-being.

Standing “With Survivors, Always” During Domestic Violence Awareness Month

03 Oct, 25

“Domestic violence is a public health issue that impacts not only individuals, but families and communities as a whole,” said Dr. Ericka Brown, Local Health Authority for Harris County Public Health.

The Spread Stops with You When You Fight the Flu!

02 Oct, 25

It is that time of year again when Harris County Public Health (HCPH) reminds community members that flu season is near, and as the temperatures cool, now is the time to get protected. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the 2025–26 flu season officially begins in October and lasts through May, with September and October being the optimal months to receive the vaccine.

Be Bold, Get Checked: Early Detection Saves Lives!

01 Oct, 25

This October, in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) encourages community members to take charge of their health by focusing on early detection and prevention. To promote early detection, HCPH is offering free breast cancer screenings throughout the month. Screenings will be available at various HCPH Health Services locations, including the Humble, Southeast, and Antoine clinics, the East and Northeast Harris County Precinct 2 Access2Health Smart Pods™, and the mobile clinic in Cypress Station.

Give Love, Get Love—Adopt A Shelter Dog This October!

30 Sep, 25

HOUSTON – October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, and Harris County Pets (HCP) is celebrating by
offering reduced adoption fees for all dogs and cats from Oct. 1-15 during the national “Empty the
Shelters” adoption event hosted by BISSELL Pet Foundation.