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

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.

Harris County Opens Violence Prevention Center in Cypress Station

03 Jun, 25

Led by Harris County Public Health, several county partners hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Tuesday to inaugurate the new Relentless Interrupters Serving Everyone (RISE) Empowerment Center, located at 16940 Ella Blvd., Suite B-107, Houston, TX 77090. The center is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m Monday through Friday. It will be fully open once they officially finisn the process of hiring two on-site staff.

PRESS RELEASES

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.

First West Nile Virus Mosquito Sample of 2025 Found in Harris County

22 May, 25

HOUSTON – Harris County Public Health’s (HCPH) Mosquito and Vector Control Division (MVCD) has confirmed that a Culex quinquefasciatus mosquito sample has tested positive for West Nile virus (WNV) in northwest Harris County.

In response, MVCD is activating evening spray operations tonight at dusk in the area where the virus-positive mosquito sample was found and in surrounding areas. These efforts aim to reduce the risk of disease transmission by infected mosquitoes.