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Courtesy Elizabeth M. Dovalina,

Laredo, TX—The City of Laredo’s Health Department is celebrating Public Health Week to inform the public on public health responsibilities, roles and priorities. This is critical to improve the public’s health. This year’s theme, “A Healthier America: One Community at a Time” focuses on the role Public Health plays in building a Healthier America.

 National Public Health Week is a nationwide initiative that calls attention to the importance of public health, early detection, wellness, disease control and public health preparedness. During the week, families, health organizations, businesses, civic and government officials come together to raise awareness about public health and in particular how to promote longer, healthier and happier lives. 

 In recognition of Public Health Week, the City of Laredo Health Department will host a two day mini health fair starting Tuesday, April 6^th through Wednesday, April 7^th from 10 am to 12 pm.  The event will be held at our Health Department at 2600 Cedar. 

 Activities planned for Public Health Week include:

• Proclamation read by Mayor Salinas on Tuesday, April 6, 2010 at 10:00 a.m.
• Educational displays and educational sessions by the Health Departments and partners 
• Free blood pressure, glucose and glaucoma screenings.
• For children there will be, face painting, a puppet show focusing on rabies, animal bites and responsible pet ownership, as well as oral health demonstrations by dentists, and safety presentations by the City of Laredo Police Department.

 National Public Health Week is important because it encourages Laredoans to take time for their health.   This year’s theme, reminds the public that they need to visit their doctor or clinic to make sure their preventive exams and early detection screening is done. We also want to thank all our partners especially the health coalition, the hospitals, schools, private providers and the binational health council for their commitment to prevention and disease control.