Media Statement

Statement from Dr. Julie L. Gerberding, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, on “Public Health Thank You Day.” (November 20, 2006)

Background:

This day, November 20, is designed to call attention to the contributions and importance of preventing health threats, health promotion, and public health to the nation′s well being. "Public Health Thank You Day" represents a collaboration of Research! America, the American Public Health Association, the Association of Schools of Preventive Medicine, the Association of Schools of Public Health, the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, and the National Association of County and City Health Officials.

Statement:

"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is honored to take time to celebrate the public health professionals across America who keep us all safer and healthier. These “health protection heroes” work around the clock to promote the health of people of all ages and their good work can be seen in our homes, our schools, our workplaces, and in our communities. Whether its detecting and investigating health threats, finding the causes of new diseases, protecting children and adults from vaccine-preventable diseases, preventing injuries and disabilities, or promoting healthy choices like exercising more and not smoking – their efforts are all too often invisible. The 14,000 public health professionals at the CDC join Research America, the Associated Schools of Public Health, the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, and the National Association of County and City Health Officials to say “thank you” to each of these heroes on the frontlines of health. As a result of their dedication, we are all able to live healthier, safer, and longer lives."

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES