Imagine a child born in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776, the morning the Declaration of Independence took final shape a few blocks away. The world she entered was, by any modern measure, brutal. A child born today in the same neighborhood can expect to live more than twice as long—thanks to the evolution of public health.

Around the world, soccer is woven into daily life in different ways. Public health is similar as different communities face unique public health challenges shaped by geography, history and circumstances.

When a community suffers a spike in overdose-related deaths, saving lives requires quick action and seamless teamwork. But bringing together first responders, law enforcement, public health professionals and others requires planning and preparation—well before a spike occurs.

To address the overdose crisis, health departments across the country use data to track overdoses, identify emerging drug threats and develop response strategies. And as the program implementation specialist at the Florida Department of Health, it’s Jonetta Morris’ job to gather that information.

When health officials in Pima County, Arizona, wanted to find a way to better connect with local residents, they developed a platform that allows individuals to contribute directly to developing and implementing community health programs.

Because maternal health is influenced by a wide range of factors—from access to care and quality of services to a mother’s support networks, employment status and access to healthy foods—the CDC Foundation takes a comprehensive approach that supports women before, during and after pregnancy.

In an interview with Robin M. Ikeda, MD, MPH, Epidemic Intelligence Service '91, we explore the remarkable career of a public health professional whose dedication to the field spans decades and extends well beyond her time at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

With the help of community-based organization Huddle Up Moms, women in southwest Virginia are accessing the education and resources they need to navigate their pregnancy and postpartum experiences.