Posted: July 15, 2005
Implementing a program that demonstrates exemplary and replicable qualities
in response to a local public health need is what garnered the City’s
Environmental Health Department a national “Model Practice Award” for
its aggressive mosquito management program.
The National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO)
honored the department as one of 39 local public health programs selected
from
across the nation to receive their “Model Practice Award” during
their annual conference, July 13.
“
We are proud to receive NACCHO’s Model Practice Award. The award is
evidence of our commitment to develop responsive and innovative public
health programs which improve the health of Plano citizens,” said
Brian Collins, Environmental Health Director.
A committee of peers selected Plano’s program from a group of
106 local public health agency applicants, focusing on programs, resources
and tools that demonstrate how local public health agencies and community
partners can effectively collaborate to address local public health
concerns.
Plano has consistently provided the public with information on West
Nile Virus, mosquito population control and reduction and other health-related
issues through a variety of media, web information and community presentations.
Routine testing of mosquitoes and vector control/larvacide is carried
out
through the community during the months when mosquito populations are
most likely to explode.
Plano’s Integrated Mosquito Management Program will become part of
NACCHO’s online, searchable database of successful public health
practices, enabling information sharing across the nation.
“
The City of Plano Environmental Health Department joins a special group
of public health agencies that exemplify the forward thinking, proactive
attitude of our nation’s public health system,” said NACCHO President
Michael Caldwell. “NACCHO congratulates the Department on this
important recognition.”