Today marks the first day of Public Health Week. For 30 years this week has been an opportunity to recognize the positive impact of public health on the collective strength of our communities.
Public health touches all of our lives, often in ways not immediately seen – from clean water and safe food, to vaccines, disease prevention and access to health services. Reflecting on three decades of work, here are some of the life-changing outcomes that public health has helped achieve, nationally and right here in Snohomish County.
Healthier kids, stronger futures
In 1994, about 14 out of every 1,000 children born in the U.S. didn’t make it to their first birthday. Today, thanks to vaccines, better prenatal care and nutrition, that number is down to just over five, translating to more than one million children saved.
Locally, 88.5 percent of Snohomish County kindergarteners were immunized during the 2023–2024 school year, helping protect our youngest residents. In 2024, the Snohomish County Health Department administered nearly 500 vaccines to ensure families have access to preventive care.
A win against tobacco
In 1994, 1 in 4 U.S. adults smoked. Today, that number is just a little over 1 in 10 due to smoke-free policies, education and tobacco taxes. As a result, lung cancer deaths have plummeted; down 61 percent in men since 1990, and 38 percent in women since 2002.
In Snohomish County, the health department continues to offer tools and support to help people quit – because every smoke-free life is a victory for public health.
Turning the tide on HIV/AIDS
At its peak in 1994, HIV/AIDS claimed over 49,000 lives each year in the U.S. Since, breakthroughs like HIV treatment and prevention pills have greatly lowered the number of people getting or dying from HIV.
The Snohomish County Health Department supports this progress with confidential HIV testing at our STI clinic, a safe space for early detection and care.
What is public health?
Public health isn’t just about treating illness – it’s about preventing it. It means building systems, policies, and environments that help people live longer, healthier lives.
Healthcare helps when you’re sick, but public health helps keep you well. That includes everything from air quality alerts and natural disaster preparedness to data around disease outbreaks and healthy food programs.
Serving Snohomish County
The Snohomish County Health Department delivers essential services every day:
- Controlling communicable diseases
- Preventing chronic illness and injury
- Safeguarding environmental health
- Supporting family and child wellness
- Issuing vital records
- Helping people access care
You’ll find us not only in clinics, but also out in the community: at local festivals, vaccine events, and schools, bringing public health to where it’s needed most. Learn more at snohd.org
