Cook County Public Health Celebrates 2026 National Public Health Week

Department marks annual awareness campaign with vaccination drives, screenings, and overdose prevention efforts.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:11am

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray photograph showing the internal structure of a syringe filled with a glowing liquid, conceptually representing the essential public health services that protect communities.An X-ray view of the tools public health departments use to safeguard community wellness, from vaccines to overdose reversal drugs.North Riverside Today

The Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) is joining public health agencies across the nation in recognizing National Public Health Week (April 6-12) to raise awareness about the critical role of public health in preventing illness, addressing health disparities, and providing essential services like vaccinations, cancer screenings, and food inspections.

Why it matters

As the public health department serving 2.3 million suburban Cook County residents, CCDPH plays a vital role in protecting the community's wellbeing. This year's National Public Health Week theme of 'Ready. Set. Action!' highlights the department's proactive efforts to improve health outcomes through vaccination drives, preventative screenings, and overdose prevention programs.

The details

In 2025, CCDPH administered 2,600 vaccines, including flu, COVID-19, and required school vaccines, and conducted more than 4,000 hearing and vision screenings for children in day care and preschool programs. The department also distributed 19,000 doses of naloxone in collaboration with community partners to help address the opioid crisis.

  • National Public Health Week is observed annually from April 6-12.
  • CCDPH recently wrapped up its Saturday vaccination clinics, which offered free COVID and flu vaccinations in several suburban communities during the fall and winter seasons.

The players

Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH)

The public health department serving 2.3 million suburban Cook County residents, providing essential services and programs to protect the community's wellbeing.

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The takeaway

CCDPH's efforts during National Public Health Week showcase the department's commitment to proactively addressing the community's health needs through vaccination access, preventative screenings, and overdose prevention initiatives. These programs are vital to ensuring suburban Cook County residents have the resources they need to stay healthy and safe.