The Mississippi State Department of Health is proud to join health departments and organizations across the nation in recognizing National Public Health Week from April 7-13, 2025.
Public health promotes and protects the health of all people and their communities.
American Public Health Association
Public health work spans government, business, and nonprofit sectors. Public health professionals include public health physicians and nurses, community health workers, health educators, first responders, epidemiologists, restaurant and facility inspectors, lab professionals, scientists and researchers putting their skills to work to protect the public's health and safety, and to create active, productive citizens unburdened by ill health.
Spotlight: Preventive Health
The Office of Preventive Health at the Mississippi Department of Health (MSDH) is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of Mississippians by partnering with community, state and national organizations. Through programs like Chronic Disease Prevention, Healthy Living, Tobacco Control, and School Health, we work to lower the risks of chronic diseases, combat obesity, increase nutrition knowledge and promote tobacco-free lifestyles.
Our efforts include providing free trainings, screenings, self-management workshops and resources to empower individuals and communities to lead healthier lives. By collaborating with schools and communities, we address various aspects of health education, physical activity, nutrition, and overall wellness, striving to create healthier environments and lifestyles for Mississippi's residents.
Our programs include:
- Chronic Disease Prevention: Targeting diseases like cancer, dementia, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke through free trainings, screenings, self-management workshops, and resources.
- Healthy Living: Promoting physical activity, nutrition knowledge, and overall wellness to combat obesity and encourage healthier lifestyles.
- Tobacco Control: Implementing programs to encourage and support tobacco-free lifestyles, including funding for Tobacco-Free Coalitions and initiatives to prevent tobacco use initiation among youth.
- School Health: Partnering with schools and communities to improve the health and fitness of young people through comprehensive health education, physical education, and health services.
- Transportation to Health: Providing transportation services to MSDH patients, ensuring access to county health departments and offices for health services.
- Injury and Violence Prevention: Addressing preventable injuries and deaths by focusing on areas such as motor vehicle safety, distracted driving, pedestrian and bicycle safety, fire prevention and water safety. They collaborate with agencies and organizations to promote safety measures, educate the public, and provide resources to reduce the state's injury-related death rate.
- Language Access Division: Ensuring effective communication with individuals across various missions and functions, particularly those with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) or who are deaf or hard of hearing and utilize American Sign Language (ASL).
- Community Interpreter Training: Introduction to community interpreting, interpreting protocols and skills, professional identity, and the role of the community interpreter.
- Language Access Training: Training on how to access MSDH’s Translation and Interpretation Services and the process for the translation of documents.
- Health Ambassadors: Engaging community leaders to promote healthy behaviors, raise awareness about public health concerns, and address issues related to COVID-19 mitigation efforts.
- Be In Good Health: Implementing Faith-based Preventive Health: Expanding health ministries in churches to enhance preventive health knowledge and address the needs of congregates and the broader community.
Through these programs and initiatives, we aim to empower individuals and communities to take proactive steps towards leading healthier lives, while also fostering environments conducive to better health outcomes for all Mississippi residents.
The Jackson Heart Study (JHS) Community Engagement Center (CEC) supports the Jackson Heart Study efforts to promote heart health within targeted communities in and around the greater Jackson metropolitan area. While administering a Community Health Workers (CHWs)/Community Health Advocates (CHAs) program, CEC works thoughtfully and innovatively towards promoting heart disease prevention through evidenced-based programs and activities. Our CHWs/CHAs include CEC staff and systems-level community partners from public housing, faith-based organizations, municipalities, and businesses that conduct screenings, education, and promote health awareness and healthy lifestyles.
Spotlight: Maternal and Infant Health
At the Mississippi State Department of Health, our Maternal-Infant Health initiatives are designed to prioritize the well-being of both mothers and babies across the state. Through a range of comprehensive services and programs, we aim to support healthy pregnancies, births and early childhood development.
Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies of Mississippi is a care management and home visiting program for expectant moms and infants at risk for health problems. We work with families and communities to help provide a safe birthing experience and healthy infant development for moms and babies.
Mothers and babies in all 82 Mississippi counties who have identified health risks can get support, including:
- Finding a medical home for you or your baby
- Identifying family and community support
- Referrals for services such as Medicaid, food stamps (SNAP) and WIC
- Referrals for family planning, mental health, transportation, housing, medical services, childcare, employment services, and breastfeeding assistance
- Home visits by a nurse care manager after your baby is born
- Health education, such as preparing for the hospital, depression, anxiety, caring for baby, infant safety and healthy infant development
- Nutritional information
One of our primary focuses is on preventive healthcare for women, including free screenings for breast and cervical cancer. These screenings are crucial for early detection and treatment, ultimately improving health outcomes for women in Mississippi. Additionally, our comprehensive family planning services offer a wide range of options for women and men to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
Our support for mothers and infants extends beyond pregnancy and childbirth. We provide personalized assistance and resources for families facing health challenges during the prenatal period, birth, and the first years of life. Programs like the Women, Infants, and Children's Supplemental Nutrition program (WIC) offer nutritional support to expectant mothers and young children, ensuring they have access to healthy foods vital for their growth and development.
We also offer early intervention services for developmental delays and disabilities, ensuring that children receive the support they need to reach their full potential. Our Early Hearing Detection and Intervention program focuses on early detection and treatment of hearing disorders in newborns, preventing potential speech and language delays.
Through these initiatives, MSDH strives to give every child the best possible start in life while providing support and resources to families throughout their parenting journey.
Spotlight: Environmental Health
At the Mississippi Department of Health, our commitment to Licensure, Certifications and Environmental Health is paramount to protecting all Mississippians. We establish and enforce standards for licensed health professionals and healthcare facilities, ensuring the delivery of high-quality care and safety for all residents.
Our Office of Environmental Health touches every Mississippian and its visitors every day. Did you drink a glass or bottle of water today? Did you use milk for breakfast, cooking, or coffee? Did you eat out at a restaurant? Did you enjoy time outdoors free from the nuisance of mosquitoes and domestic wastewater? Here’s a look at the programs:
Bureau of Public Water Supply: Water Supply is tasked with ensuring the federal and state Clean Water Acts are followed by all 1,100 public water supplies in Mississippi. The Bureau provides regulatory oversight and assistance by rule managers and regional engineers, regulatory analysis of drinking water samples using the Public Health Laboratory, support of Community Water Fluoridation, and special loan and grant programs to ensure drinking water infrastructure is being adequately maintained. Water Supply also certifies drinking water operators and provides management training for public water system boards.
Food Protection: This program ensures all 14,000+ Mississippi retail and manufactured food facilities follow the FDA Food Code as well as any applicable state regulations to safeguard the health of consumers. The plan review team works with all new retail locations to confirm their design, construction materials, procedures and equipment all meet FDA standards. Food environmentalists perform risk-based inspections at least once or twice a year at these establishments as well as follow-up on public complaints to prevent foodborne illness outbreaks and provide visible A, B and C grades for the public to use in deciding where to eat.
Onsite Wastewater: While larger municipal and commercial sewer systems are managed by MDEQ, the MSDH Onsite program ensures individual domestic wastewater systems follow the Mississippi Onsite Wastewater law for proper design and installation to provide adequate treatment without leaving the individual property. Wastewater environmentalists assess soil types and water tables in making system recommendations as well as investigate complaints of failed wastewater systems. In addition, the program certifies system manufacturers, installers, and the septic pumping/hauling industry.
Milk and Bottled Water: The Milk program inspects and provides operating permits to dairy farms, milk haulers, and milk processing plants in Mississippi to ensure compliance with FDA requirements and the interstate Pasteurized Milk Ordinance. This allows Mississippi dairies to transport and sell their milk and milk products across state lines. Samples of raw and processed milk and milk products are collected and analyzed for safety and compliance at the Public Health Laboratory. Sensitive equipment at dairies and processing plants is inspected and sealed to ensure sanitary requirements are met prior to use. Bottled water facilities are inspected for FDA compliance and licensed for operation.
Boiler and; Pressure Vessel Safety: From large steam boilers heating whole buildings to small compressed-gas cylinders carbonating soft drinks at fast-food restaurants, this program ensures the thousands of pressure vessels in Mississippi are routinely inspected to prevent structural failure or gas releases that could result in commercial damage and/or human harm.
Institutional Services: Sanitation inspections are conducted annually by law at the state penitentiary at Parchman as well as at other state- and privately-owned correctional facilities who request inspections to maintain accreditation or assess facility performance. In addition, this program partners with federal agencies to conduct consumer product recalls in Mississippi to ensure recalled items are removed from retail shelves.
Entomology: The state entomologist and the team conduct field collection and analysis of disease-carrying pests such as mosquitoes and ticks to determine if and where potential disease outbreaks could occur, the effectiveness of pesticides and other methods of pest control, and what species of pests are currently active in Mississippi.
Our Office of Licensure oversees various branches responsible for regulatory activities:
- The Health Facilities Licensure Division licenses facilities catering to the healthcare needs of Mississippians, ensuring compliance with quality standards and certifying participation in federal healthcare programs.
- The Child Care Licensure Bureau regulates childcare facilities, youth camps, and residential homes, conducting inspections, offering training, and addressing complaints to uphold safety standards.
- The Professional Licensure Bureau regulates 18 professions, prioritizing citizen welfare by ensuring competent, safe, and ethical service delivery.
- Our Background Check Unit processes comprehensive background checks for licensed healthcare, childcare, and medical cannabis facilities, collaborating with state and federal agencies to ensure thorough vetting. These efforts underscore our dedication to maintaining the integrity of healthcare and childcare services, protecting the public's health and safety.
At the Mississippi Department of Health, regulatory services are vital components of our mission to promote and safeguard public health. Through robust regulation, diligent oversight, and proactive environmental management, we strive to create a healthier and safer environment for all Mississippians.
Spotlight: Communicable Disease Control
At the Mississippi State Department of Health, our commitment to combating communicable diseases is unwavering. Through our robust vaccination programs and comprehensive testing services, we strive to protect the health and well-being of all Mississippians.
Our vaccination programs are designed to provide widespread access to vaccines, safeguarding individuals and communities from a range of preventable infectious diseases. From childhood immunizations to adult vaccinations, we prioritize the administration of vaccines to prevent outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations.
In addition to our vaccination efforts, we offer comprehensive testing services for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Our STD testing initiatives are aimed at early detection and prompt treatment of infections, reducing transmission rates, and preventing the spread of STDs within communities. Through confidential testing and counseling services, we empower individuals to take control of their sexual health and seek appropriate care when needed.
At MSDH, we recognize the critical importance of proactive prevention and intervention strategies in mitigating the spread of communicable diseases. Through education, outreach, and community partnerships, we work to raise awareness about the importance of vaccinations and safe sexual practices. By promoting healthy behaviors and providing access to essential healthcare services, we strive to improve overall public health and well-being across the state.
Our efforts extend beyond vaccination and testing to include ongoing surveillance and monitoring of communicable diseases. Through data collection and analysis, we identify trends and emerging threats, allowing us to respond swiftly and effectively to outbreaks and public health emergencies.
Together, with our dedicated staff, healthcare partners, and community stakeholders, we remain steadfast in our mission to protect the health of all Mississippians and prevent the spread of communicable diseases. At MSDH, our commitment to promoting health equity and ensuring access to quality care drives everything we do.
Spotlight: Emergency Services and Disaster Response
At the Mississippi State Department of Health, our Emergency Services programs are at the forefront of disaster planning, response, and radiological preparedness. Working closely with Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the Trauma Care System, we ensure effective coordination during emergencies, prioritizing community safety. Through comprehensive disaster preparedness efforts and ongoing training, we enhance our state's resilience and ability to respond swiftly to any emergency, including radiological incidents.
Our Emergency Services division collaborates with EMS agencies to oversee pre-hospital emergency medical care. This includes licensing and regulating EMS providers, enforcing standards for ambulance services, and coordinating disaster response. We provide training and continuing education for EMS personnel, analyze data on EMS operations, and foster collaboration with other emergency response agencies and healthcare providers.
Additionally, we implement statewide Systems of Care for trauma, STEMI (ST-elevation myocardial infarction) and stroke. These structured networks ensure rapid and coordinated care for patients experiencing these specific medical emergencies. Trauma systems coordinate care from injury through rehabilitation, establish trauma center criteria, and facilitate patient transfers. STEMI systems focus on rapid diagnosis and treatment of severe heart attacks, while stroke systems ensure prompt assessment and treatment to minimize brain damage.
Through these initiatives, we aim to improve patient outcomes by streamlining care delivery, reducing treatment delays, and enhancing collaboration among healthcare providers and emergency response agencies.
The MSDH Office of Strategic Planning and Response safeguards the health of individuals, ensures the delivery of essential health and medical services, and prepares health professionals for all types of emergencies and natural disasters.
MSDH's Office of Strategic Planning and Response has worked to significantly improve Mississippi's emergency response capability. In place now are:
- A Biosafety Level 3 laboratory with advanced pathogen detection equipment
- 17 Weapons of Mass Destruction Centers of Excellence in hospitals across the state
- The satellite-based Health Alert Network, connecting 13,000 Mississippi physicians and facilities
- A distribution system for emergency medication from the Strategic National Stockpile
- State and regional bioterrorism response plans and coordinators
- Nurses trained in bioterrorism issues and diseases in locations statewide
- 24/7 information hotline (1-866-HLTHY4U)
The Division of Radiological Health is responsible for protecting the public from unnecessary radiation exposure from sources such as industry, research, educational institutions, medical treatment, healing arts and the environment.
Radiological Health coordinates with the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) for drills, training activities, and response to radiological emergencies. The staff participates in graded exercises of the state's emergency response plan for the Grand Gulf Nuclear Station (GGNS), conducted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Spotlight: County Health Department Services
At the Mississippi State Department of Health, our County Health Departments serve as vital hubs for delivering essential public health services to communities across the state. With over 80 health department locations strategically positioned throughout Mississippi, we ensure that residents have convenient access to critical healthcare resources and support. Our County Health Departments offer a wide range of services aimed at promoting and protecting the health and well-being of individuals and families. These services include:
- Immunizations to prevent the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases
- Family planning assistance to empower individuals with reproductive health choices
- Communicable disease testing and treatment to control the spread of infectious illnesses
- Comprehensive screenings for various health conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and cancer
These screenings are crucial for early detection and intervention, enabling individuals to take proactive steps towards managing their health and reducing the risk of complications. Furthermore, our County Health Departments play a pivotal role in health education and outreach efforts, providing valuable information and resources to community members on topics such as:
- Nutrition
- Physical activity
- Tobacco cessation
- Birth certificates, death certificates, and vital records.
Through collaborative partnerships with local healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies, we work tirelessly to address health disparities and promote health equity across all populations. By focusing on preventive care, education, and access to services, we strive to create healthier and more resilient communities throughout Mississippi.
Additionally, the Office of Field Services provides a variety of direct and indirect services at the local level in 86 county health departments located throughout the state, including:
- Reproductive health
- Sexually transmitted disease testing and treatment
- Tuberculosis testing and treatment
- Chronic disease screening
- Cancer screening
The Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (BCCP) at the Mississippi Department of Health offers free screenings to eligible women, focusing on early detection and intervention. Services include:
- Free breast cancer screenings, including clinical breast exams and mammograms.
- Free cervical cancer screenings, such as Pap tests and HPV tests.
- Referrals for diagnostic testing and follow-up care.
- Education and outreach initiatives.
- Assistance with navigating the healthcare system.
- Collaboration with healthcare providers and community organizations.
- Continuous evaluation and quality improvement efforts.
The Breast and Cervical Cancer Program aims to address Mississippi's high cervical cancer death rate, which is the second highest in the U.S.
The MSDH Pharmacy serves clients enrolled in specific public health programs offered by the Mississippi State Department of Health, including Family Planning, Immunizations, Tuberculosis Control, and the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP). While it's not open to the public, it works directly with prescribers and clients associated with MSDH programs and services. The pharmacy emphasizes providing optimal patient care, education, and research to contribute to a healthy Mississippi. It has a history of serving the underserved and focuses on personalized care through its Specialty Pharmacy program.
The MSDH Bureau of Vital Records manages vital records such as birth and death certificates, along with marriage records, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of essential information for legal and administrative purposes statewide.
Public Health Work at MSDH
Public health protection takes a wide variety of forms, from ensuring the safety of your food and water to setting standards for health, care and safety.
Below is an outline of the major operations of the agency. They involve health protection, health promotion and health planning, and affect you and your health every day, throughout your life.
Disease Surveillance
- Disease tracking and outbreak management
- Laboratory testing for West Nile virus, flu, syphilis, TB, HIV, and other diseases
- Prevention programs for flu, mosquito-borne diseases, HIV, and other STDs, and communicable diseases
- Statewide coordination of immunizations and vaccinations
Environmental Health
- Drinking water testing
- Restaurant permits and inspections
- On-site wastewater and sewage system regulation
Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention
- Tobacco control and cessation programs
- Nutritional training and information
- Chronic disease prevention and management (arthritis, diabetes, asthma, heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer, and other diseases)
- Safe biking and walking in communities
- Car seat safety and installation
- Fire safety
Standards of Care
- Child care facility licensing and regulation
- Licensing and regulation of nursing homes, assisted living, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities
- Trauma care regulation
- Licensure of audiologists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, dietitians, and other professions
Immunizations
- Required and recommended childhood immunizations
- Meningococcal and HPV vaccinations for adolescents
- Seasonal flu vaccinations for all ages
- Recommended vaccinations for international travel
Comprehensive Reproductive Health
- Educational information and counseling
- Physical exams and contraceptive supplies
- STD/HIV testing
- Pregnancy care
Women, Infants and Children
- New and improved monthly supplemental food packages
- Nutrition education classes
- Breastfeeding support
- Health care referrals
Vital Records
- Birth and death certificates
- Marriage and divorce records
- Statistical reports on number and causes of death
Social Services
- Education, advocacy and consultation
- Supervision and monitoring of medical treatments
- Coordination of patients with community resources
- Special care for children with chronic or disabling conditions
Keeping You Safe in Emergencies
- Preparing the public for disasters and public health emergencies
- Nationally-recognized emergency preparedness programs
- Severe weather/disaster response
- Regular training sessions for preparedness and response plans
Providing You with Information
- Bringing health news and information the public
- Educating professionals and the public on health improvement and disease prevention
- Emergency notifications for doctors, hospitals, and the healthcare community
- Community training, summits, and other outreach efforts
About Public Health
What is public health about? This video from the American Public Health Association explains public health, the challenges it faces, and what public health agencies like ours hope to accomplish. View full size →
