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Public health refers to the wellness of a large group of people, such as a city, state or country. Each group has public health officials who monitor public health and report on any concerns as well as help prevent, contain and monitor the spread of disease. Public health officials encourage everyday practices such as:

• using sunscreen
• wearing helmets
• wearing seatbelts
• getting immunized
• getting tested for illness
• having regular check-ups

Public health officials warn people against participating in activities that pose a health risk, such as:

• smoking
• exercising in smog or polluted areas
• substance abuse
• obesity
• sexually-transmitted diseases

Public health officials also warn people about any possible illness outbreaks or infections they need to avoid. For example, in 2007 public health officials warned people about:

• West Nile Virus
• overexposure to electromagnetic fields, including cell phones and power lines
• tuberculosis
• avian influenza
• drinking water contaminations

Finally, public health also includes the nutrition, exercise and mental health concerns of communities.

For example, health officials might sponsor anti-drug and anti-smoking campaigns and publish “how to eat healthy” materials as well as define and explain mental health. In public health, mental and physical injuries are viewed with equal importance. Public health officials might address mental health by:

• explaining signs and symptoms
• telling you where to get help
• offering preventative tips
• providing support

To find out more information on public health, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov.