BALTIMORE, MD—Following Governor Larry Hogan’s recent proclamation of April 4 – 10 as Public Health Week in Maryland, the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) will celebrate the occasion by recognizing the contributions of public health workers and highlighting issues that are important to the health of the state’s communities.

“On behalf of our entire state, I just want to thank all of you for using your talents to help us honor and show our appreciation for our healthcare heroes,” said Governor Hogan during his announcement on Friday. “I’ve talked a lot over the last two years about what it means to be Maryland Strong—you are the definition of Maryland Strong.”

Public Health Week in Maryland coincides with National Public Health Week 2022 and shares its theme: “Public Health is Where You Are.” This year’s theme acknowledges that promoting and protecting health is critical not just to the public as a whole, but also to local communities in particular.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has placed our public health workers front and center and they responded professionally and with great fortitude,” said MDH Secretary Dennis R. Schrader. “I am grateful to Maryland’s public health workforce and the professionals that have served our local communities and the entire state to meet the numerous challenges brought about by the pandemic.”

“No matter where we are, we can all take part in building toward a healthier future,” said Deputy Secretary for Public Health Dr. Jinlene Chan. “I am especially thankful for the local health departments and community-based organizations in every jurisdiction of the state that work tirelessly, year in and year out, to serve the state from the grassroots level.”