National Public Health Week: Supporting health equity, well-being in Arizona
The past two years have shown us that public health is critical. That’s one reason why we at ADHS are excited to mark National Public Health Week and to have Governor Doug Ducey commemorate this week by proclamation. Public health is more than a single topic; it’s countless issues and practices that help every American live healthy, long and productive [...]
Our work continues
Governor Ducey, at the recommendation of ADHS, has terminated the state’s COVID-19 Declaration of Emergency. His announcement makes clear, however, that public health’s response to COVID-19 will continue. Jessica Rigler, our assistant director for public health preparedness, put it this way during a recent ADHS virtual town hall on COVID-19 vaccines for children: “Public health continues whether or not we’re [...]
Latest data shows COVID-19 boosters continue making a big difference in Arizona
Following yesterday’s authorization of a second COVID-19 booster dose for ages 50 and older and those with weakened immune systems, new data shows just how much of a difference a booster dose makes. During February, compared to individuals who were fully vaccinated with a booster, unvaccinated people ages 18 and older had: 4.9 times the risk of testing positive for [...]
Second COVID-19 booster dose authorized for ages 50 and older, certain others
Today, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) authorized a second booster dose for those ages 50 and older. They also authorized a second booster for those 12 and older who have weakened immune systems. Vaccines are extremely effective at protecting against severe COVID-19 outcomes, but evidence suggests the protection wanes over time. [...]
COVID-19 shots continue long tradition of vaccines protecting public health
You want to feel safe. You want your family to be safe. Are vaccines safe? The simple and important answer is: Oh my yes! What you want to know too is if vaccines actually work, right? The World Health Organization has an answer: “With the exception of clean, safe drinking water, no human endeavor rivals immunization in combating infectious diseases [...]
Report: Arizona made ‘notable progress’ on public health preparedness
The past two years have put public health preparedness on center stage as our country grapples with the ongoing pandemic. All the while, we have remained vigilant and prepared for the next unknown challenge facing communities across our state. Public health partners across Arizona have risen to the occasion and have done amazing work responding to the current crisis while [...]