Overview

During the first full week of April each year, National Public Health Week (NPHW) is observed across the U.S. as a time to recognize the contributions of public health and highlight issues that are important to improving the health of our nation. Each year, the American Public Health Association (APHA) develops a national campaign to educate the public, policymakers, and practitioners about issues related to each year’s theme.

For 2019, National Public Health Week takes place April 1-7. The theme is “Creating the Healthiest Nation: For science. For action. For health.”

San Diego-Related 2019 National Public Health Week Events

San Diego County’s contribution to celebrating the 2019 NPHW includes the following activities:

• The 2019 Live Well San Diego 18th Annual Public Health Champion Awards Ceremony is San Diego’s signature event, held this year on Friday, April 5, 2019, from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m., with a reception to follow, at the County Administration Center located at 1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101. This ceremony recognizes extraordinary achievements, by an individual and organization, in areas of public health service that protect and promote the health of the local population. The awards were created to recognize the role of public/private collaboration in advancing optimal health and wellness in the county’s diverse populations.
  

What You Can Do to Join the Movement

1. BECOME A PARTNER - Show your support for public health and prevention!
2. SUBMIT AN EVENT - Add your NPHW event to the hundreds of celebrations nationwide.
3. TAKE ACTION - Take one small step each day for a healthier life.
4. ATTEND AN EVENT - Join your community to celebrate NPHW.
5. STEP IT UP - Join the 1 Billion Steps Challenge. Let's get everyone moving!

Daily National Public Health Week Themes

Monday, April 1, 2019—Healthy Communities

Defend the critical role of strong public health systems in creating healthier communities and urge decision makers to make health a priority in all policymaking. Advocate for smart local policies that prioritize health. For instance, research shows that well-maintained sidewalks can encourage physical activity and that safe biking networks lead to more cycling and fewer injuries among bicyclists.

Tuesday, April 2, 2019—Violence Prevention

Advocate for community-driven solutions to that identify and target the root of violence and don't criminalize entire communities. Urge policymakers to provide research funding that's on par with the nation's gun violence epidemic. Work with local colleges and universities on ways to prevent sexual violence, such as offering bystander intervention training, and ways to better help victims of sexual violence, such as offering trauma-informed services. 

Wednesday, April 3, 2019—Rural Health

Support telemedicine, school-based health centers and other efforts that connect rural residents to medical and supportive services. Advance partnerships that target the social determinants, such as increasing job training opportunities. Partner with community stakeholders to overcome transportation barriers to care. Advocate for supportive and evidence-based public health policies, such as continued coverage for mental health and addiction care.

Thursday, April 4, 2019—Technology and Public Health 

Support public health funding levels that allow the field's workers to leverage the latest technology on behalf of population health. Support and make time for workforce training efforts that teach public health practitioners how to use and deploy new technologies in their community health efforts. Embrace social media as a health improvement and advocacy tool. Promote use of health and activity-tracking mobile apps in encouraging healthy behavior changes.

Friday, April 5, 2019—Climate Change

Call for adequate funding to support public health workers in monitoring, preparing for and responding to the health effects of climate change. Support policies that help mitigate and prevent worsening climate change, such as rules that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and partnerships that reduce people's reliance on cars.

Saturday/Sunday, April 6-7, 2019—Global Health

Support continued funding for U.S. global public health efforts. Call on U.S. and world leaders to protect health workers and facilities during violent conflicts and hold those accountable who purposefully target health workers. 

If you have any further questions, please call (619) 542-4170.