VI Department of Health Launches Community Outreach for National Public Health Week

The V.I. Department of Health is engaging in a series of community outreach activities this week in observance of National Public Health Week, under the theme “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health.”

Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion emphasized the broader scope of public health, stating, “Public health extends beyond healthcare. It's about clean environments, safe food, and water, and fostering community connections. By uniting to support public health, individuals, families, and the public health field can achieve the shared goal of expanding access and equitable care to all for better health outcomes.”

In a bid to connect with the community and promote health and wellness, VIDOH's community health workers and chronic disease prevention staff are visiting public schools across the territory to read to young children, according to a release from the department. The initiative aims to foster early awareness about the importance of health and well-being.

A significant highlight of the week is set for Thursday when VIDOH divisions will conduct a territory-wide community engagement event. The event, open to the public from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., will offer free health screenings and information on various services provided by VIDOH. The participating divisions include Community Health, Chronic Disease Prevention, Communicable Disease, Maternal, Child Health, Behavioral Health, and Family Planning.