National Public Health Week 2024 is April 1-7. This year’s theme is “Protecting, Connecting, and Thriving: We Are All Public Health”. When we all come together to support public health, we can achieve the goals of public health.
St. Croix County Public Health focuses on protecting and improving the health of people and their communities. This work is achieved by promoting healthy lifestyles, researching disease and injury prevention, and detecting, preventing and responding to infectious diseases. Overall, Public Health is concerned with protecting the health of entire populations.
“With this year’s theme we are hoping to help you see public health in St. Croix County. In the days highlighted you will find ideas of how you can incorporate public health right here at home.”
Elle Klasen, St. Croix County Interim Public Health Administrator
Public Health Week Topics
Monday - Civic Engagement
The actions that we and our communities take to identify and address problems, shapes our opportunities to be healthy. A recent analysis of civic engagement and state health outcomes from 1996 to 2020 showed that in states where people are more civically engaged and vote, public health outcomes are better. In alignment with the theme of Civic Engagement, if you're eligible to vote, St. Croix County Public Health encourages you to take part in the upcoming elections to make your voice heard and contribute to the well-being of your community.
Learn more about the voting and elections.
Tuesday - Healthy Neighborhoods
Where we live, eat, sleep, work, play, and learn can have a huge effect on our health. How can we make our neighborhoods healthier?
Wednesday - Climate Change
Climate change is a pressing issue to human health. Extreme heat, severe storms, air pollution, wildfires and the spread of mosquito-and-tick borne diseases threaten the physical and mental health of all communities.
Do you know where St. Croix County Cooling Centers are located? St. Croix County does have agreements with many of our area libraries, public buildings, and retail shopping areas. During Extreme Heat reach out to 211.org and enter your zip code to find a cooling-off center near you.
Thursday - New Tools and Innovations
Public health is all about preventing disease, diagnosing health conditions, and encouraging health and well-being. However, achieving these goals wouldn’t be possible without the help of new tools and innovations in public health.
Did you know that St. Croix County Community Development offers free well water Nitrate testing? Learn more about these water screening clinics. | St. Croix County, WI (sccwi.gov)
Are you familiar with 211? They connect you with thousands of nonprofit and government services in your area. When you need help and don't know where to turn, 211 is a one-stop connection to the local services you need, like utility assistance, housing, food, elder care, crisis intervention, alcohol and other drug recovery, and much more. If you want personal assistance call the three-digit number 211 or 877-947-2211. They are available to talk with you 24/7/365.
Friday - Reproductive and Sexual Health
When people have access to quality reproductive and sexual health care and education, they can live happier and healthier lives. Get screened for cancers and tested for STIs. Breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers are three of the most common forms of cancer in the United States.
Did you know that St. Croix County Public Health offers confidential and low-cost reproductive health services for men and women? Learn more about the reproductive services we offer.
Saturday - Emergency Preparedness
St. Croix County Public Health works on preparing for and responding to emergencies including infectious disease outbreaks, natural disasters, power outages, and other threats that can have an impact on our health. Being ready for emergencies is crucial. Emergency preparedness is exactly what it sounds like; it involves planning, having supplies on hand, and knowing how to stay safe during an emergency. Being ready for crises before they happen can not only protect you and your loved ones but the communities we live in.
- Build an emergency supply kit: Being prepared means stocking up on supplies. An emergency supply kit is a collection of tools that can help in the event of an emergency. Kit supplies can include flashlights, nonperishable food, extra clothes, a first aid kit and personal hygiene items. You also should have a gallon of water per person/pet per day, for three days, if possible.
- Have a plan: Create an emergency plan with your family, friends, or household. Designate a meeting spot where you all can gather in case you are separated during an emergency. Learn your local emergency alerts and warnings. Practice emergency drills and memorize evacuation routes.
Sunday - Future of Public Health
Public health's future is all about teaming up — joining forces with unexpected partners from different sectors and centering community voices. It's making sure every person has access to the support and care they need for a healthier life.
To learn more about public health in visit the public health section of our website.