YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – The Chair of the Yuma County Board of Supervisors has proclaimed April 1-7 as Public Health Week in Yuma County.

The Yuma County Health Department said public health helps the community prevent, prepare for and withstand the effects of any health threats.

It also promotes and encourages healthy behaviors and ensures access to health services.

We spoke to the Department of Health to find out why it's important to recognise and celebrate Public Health Week.

“Public health is under the radar and we don't really know what we're going to do unless something happens — unless there's an outbreak and we're vaccinating and investigating or there's an outbreak at a restaurant,” said Kathy Ward, deputy director of the Yuma County Health Department.

The Chairman noted that it is important to understand the value of public health and continue to build strong public health systems to maintain and improve the health of the community.