Public Health has been caring for the health of communities for more than 100 years. In fact, it's been credited with adding 25 years to the life expectancy of people living in the United States. Public Health accomplished this feat by starting programs on vaccinations, safer work places, motor-vehicle safety, and control of infectious diseases like tuberculosis, typhoid, and cholera.

In more recent years, Public Health has added Public Health Preparedness to its role in caring for the community. Public Health Preparedness includes:

• Working together with other community agencies, like fire, law enforcement, hospitals, and other emergency agencies to respond effectively to all emergencies.
• Creating community action plans for both natural and man-made disasters, like infectious diseases and bioterrorism.
• Educating public health workers and emergency responders so they can respond quickly and efficiently to health threats.