National Public Health Week recognizes outstanding work in Washington

OLYMPIA — April 3-8 is National Public Health Week, a time to celebrate the dedicated people working to improve public health across the country and here in Washington, according to a press release from the Washington Department of Health.

This year’s theme is “Public Health is Where You Are,” recognizing ways we can make our communities healthier and stronger. Each day this week, the Washington Department of Health has focused on various issues crucial to promoting better health and wellness, including accessibility, combating climate change, dealing with the ongoing public health crisis of systemic racism, and understanding the strain the COVID-19 pandemic has placed on public health workers.

“From the shores of Puget Sound to the summit of Mount Rainier, our public health workers protect and improve the health of all people and places,” said Dr. Anthony L-T Chen, director of health at Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department. “Where we live, work, learn, pray, and play determines our health. Together, we strive for healthy people in healthy communities.”