For Immediate Release: April 3, 2025
Media contact: Yolanda Harris, [email protected] , 312-465-6438
Cook County Department of Public Health Celebrates National Public Health Week
Health department hosts special activities and honors its 80th anniversary
FOREST PARK, IL – Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) will join the American Public Health Association and local and state health departments across the nation in celebrating National Public Health Week , April 7-13, 2025.
The health department will use the week to spread awareness about public health through virtual and in-person activities that are open to the public.
“At a time when the federal government is cutting funding for public health, National Public Health Week serves as a powerful reminder of the critical role public health plays in keeping our communities healthy. Cook County Department of Public Health helps ensure access to quality health care, clean air, safe drinking water, and nutritious food. I stand in solidarity with our dedicated public health workers, who work every day to protect our health and well-being,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.
“Cook County Department of Public Health plays a vital role in making suburban Cook County communities healthier places to live, work and play,” said Dr. Erik Mikaitis, Cook County Health CEO. “We are proud to celebrate this week, honor our dedicated team, and strongly reaffirm our mission to protect and improve public health in Cook County for generations to come.”
Established in 1945, Cook County Department of Public Health will also celebrate its milestone anniversary during National Public Health Week.
“This year marks our agency’s 80th anniversary, giving us more reason to celebrate all public health has achieved with our partners and the public,” said Dr. Kiran Joshi, interim chief operating officer of Cook County Department of Public Health.
CCDPH will host the following live and virtual events for partners, staff and the public throughout the week:
Monday, April 7, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. – Information Tables at Suburban Cook County Courthouses
CCDPH staff will provide public health information and resources at Cook County courthouses in Bridgeview, Markham, Maywood and Rolling Meadows.
Tuesday, April 8, 11 a.m. to Noon CST – Environmental Justice Webinar- Open to the Public
Residents, advocates and leaders are encouraged to attend a free virtual webinar about how Cook County is driving meaningful change through policies and actions that advance environmental justice, enhance community preparedness and promote equitable food systems. Register at bit.ly/4kACV4F .
Wednesday, April 9 – Health Literacy Toolkit and Website Launch
CCDPH launches a new, organizational health literacy toolkit and website with valuable strategies and resources to help community-based organizations, schools, government and health care agencies make health information and services more accessible to the people they serve. A webinar on the toolkit is set for April 24. Register at bit.ly/3QW8JmX .
Friday, April 11 – The Future of Public Health
CCDPH will debut a video reel on social media featuring Bremen Township high school students sharing what they learned about the field of public health while participating in CCDPH’s community health worker program.
For more information about Cook County Department of Public Health programs and services, visit www.cookcountypublichealth.org.
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Cook County Department of Public Health, an affiliate of Cook County Health, is a nationally accredited, state-certified local health department that enforces health regulations, monitors and responds to public health threats and promotes better health in suburban Cook County.