At the April 7 County Council meeting, the Whatcom County Health Department presented a proclamation in support of National Public Health Week to the Whatcom County Council. The Council, in turn, passed a resolution proclaiming the week of April 6 – 12, 2020, as National Public Health Week in Whatcom County, Washington.
During the first full week of April each year, the American Public Health Association (APHA) brings together communities across the United States to observe National Public Health Week as a time to recognize the contributions of public health and highlight issues that are important to improving our nation.
“Public Health staff at the Whatcom County Health Department are on the front lines of our COVID-19 response efforts, tirelessly tracking the disease and working to stop its spread. National Public Health Week is an opportunity to recognize their service to our community,” said County Executive Satpal Sidhu. “Today, more than ever, the best way for us to express appreciation is to listen to their guidance and do our part to improve our community’s health.”
“I can’t think of a better time to honor and thank our hardworking public health professionals,” said Council Chair Barry Buchanan. “This COVID-19 crisis highlights the importance of our public health staff in keeping us safe and healthy.”
“I am proud to work in a field and with colleagues who demonstrate daily the values of equity, scientific rigor, compassion, partnership, and service,” said Health Director Erika Lautenbach. “My colleagues work in environmental health, communicable disease, human services, data and epidemiology, and community health improvement, and I am grateful for their expertise and leadership.”
To learn more about the services offered by the Whatcom County Health Department, visit www.whatcomcounty.us/health or call (360) 778-6000.