Councilman Mike Elam's Blog

Have you ever taken a moment to consider the numerous ways that public health improvements have impacted your life? Virtually every minute of every day, you can find examples of ways that health principles, programs and policies have influenced our well-being.

Most of us recognize the system of doctors, hospitals and other medical professionals available to treat us when we’re sick or injured. What you may not recognize is that there’s also a system working to keep us safe and sound before we get sick and to track the causes if we do, so that they’re prevented in the future.

The Public Health system operates programs and introduces policies that enhance the lives of the people and pets within our community. St. Charles County’s Department of Public Health responds to our needs through the actions of three divisions. The Division of Environmental Health and Protection promotes healthy conditions and reduces public risks through inspection and licensing of food-service and other public service providers, mosquito control activities, operations of the county’s recycling program and natural resource management programs. The Division of Health Services encompasses several programs including: an Immunizations Clinic, the WIC Supplemental Food and Nutrition Education program, an STD Prevention and Treatment clinic, the distribution of Vital Records, the hosting of Health Education and Outreach programs, and the investigation/reporting of communicable diseases. The Division of Humane Services promotes the health and welfare of pets and people through education, adoptions and enforcement of County ordinances.