Knox County Health Department Celebrates National Public Health Week

Administrators highlight the department's wide-ranging impact on the community's health and wellness.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 8:24pm

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray photograph revealing the intricate structures of the human heart, lungs, and circulatory system, conveying the clinical yet essential nature of public health services.An X-ray view of the human body's vital systems, illustrating the Knox County Health Department's focus on preventative care and community wellness.Galesburg Today

In recognition of National Public Health Week, Knox County Health Department Public Health Administrator and CEO Michele Gabriel and Assistant Administrator Wil Hayes discussed the department's vital role in the community. They highlighted the department's efforts to improve teen birth rates, childhood immunization levels, oral health access, and food safety inspections. The health department is also hosting a free, anonymous Drug Take Back event this Friday.

Why it matters

The Knox County Health Department plays a crucial role in promoting public health and preventing illness through a variety of programs and initiatives. By educating the community, providing essential services, and addressing key health issues, the department has a significant impact on the overall well-being of Knox County residents.

The details

The Knox County Health Department offers a wide range of services, including medical, dental, and behavioral health care through the Knox Community Health Center. The department has also made notable progress in areas like reducing teen birth rates, maintaining high childhood immunization levels, expanding oral health access, and ensuring food safety. To further support the community, the department is hosting a Drug Take Back event this Friday to properly dispose of unused or expired medications.

  • National Public Health Week runs through Saturday, April 12, 2026.
  • The Knox County Health Department's Drug Take Back event is scheduled for Friday, April 10, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The players

Michele Gabriel

Public Health Administrator and CEO of the Knox County Health Department.

Wil Hayes

Assistant Administrator of the Knox County Health Department.

Knox County Health Department

The local public health agency serving Knox County, Illinois, providing a wide range of medical, dental, and behavioral health services to the community.

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What they’re saying

“Public health is really about prevention at the very core level — as far back as you can get. In our ideal state, we would have people not have to go to the doctor.”

— Michele Gabriel, Public Health Administrator and CEO

“It has come down drastically. We are no longer considered one of the highest in the state.”

— Wil Hayes, Assistant Administrator

“If you no longer need the medicine, you don't need to keep it sitting around. It's an accident waiting to happen.”

— Wil Hayes, Assistant Administrator

What’s next

The Knox County Health Department's free, anonymous Drug Take Back event will take place this Friday, April 10, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the department's location on West Fremont Street in Galesburg.

The takeaway

The Knox County Health Department plays a vital role in promoting public health and wellness throughout the community, from providing essential medical and dental services to addressing key health issues like teen pregnancy, childhood immunizations, and proper medication disposal. Their wide-ranging efforts touch the lives of all Knox County residents.