GCHD Connects With Community During National Public Health Week
In honor of National Public Health Week, April 7-13, the Galveston County Health District (GCHD) launched an interactive initiative to bring the community into the conversation about public health. Residents were encouraged to submit their questions on social media about a variety of health-related topics, ranging from chronic disease prevention and vaccinations to emergency preparedness and environmental health.
In response, CEO and Local Health Authority Dr. Philip Keiser answered these questions in a special video series released throughout the week. His informative, thoughtful responses helped clarify public concerns and shed light on how the health district works daily to protect and promote the health of Galveston County residents.
National Public Health Week, observed annually during the first full week of April, highlights the impact of public health on our everyday lives and honors the work of public health professionals across the nation. It’s a time to celebrate advancements in health, acknowledge ongoing challenges, and recommit to building healthier, more equitable communities.
Through efforts like the Q&A video series, GCHD aimed not only to inform but also to inspire residents to take an active role in their health and the well-being of their communities. Public health is a shared responsibility and engaging with the public directly is one of the most effective ways to strengthen that partnership.
Watch the Q&A video series here!
Stay Protected Against Measles: Check Your Immunity at Coastal Health & Wellness
Did you know that immunity to measles can wane over time? Even if you received the MMR vaccine in the past, it's possible that your protection has diminished. The good news is that you can easily check your immunity status with a simple MMR titer test at Coastal Health & Wellness Express Lab for $42, and you don’t have to be a current patient.
This test will give you peace of mind by confirming whether you’re still immune to measles, mumps, and rubella. If the results show you're not immune, you can schedule an appointment with Coastal Health & Wellness to receive your MMR vaccine.
Not covered by insurance? The Galveston County Health District Immunizations Clinic offers private-pay vaccines and is a participant of the Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) and Adult Safety Net (ASN) programs.
Don’t wait; protect yourself and your community by checking your immunity.
Galveston County Animal Resource Center Partners with Houston Humane Society for Pet Food Pantry
On April 4, the Galveston County Animal Resource Center (ARC) and the Houston Humane Society joined forces to host an incredible Pet Food Pantry event at the Galveston County Health District in Texas City. This event was a huge success, offering free pet food to families in need.
The next Pet Food Pantry event is scheduled for July 3, starting at 9 a.m. at the Galveston County Health District, 9850 Emmett F. Lowry Expy, Texas City. Please note this is a first-come, first-serve event. Food pickup with be done in a drive-thru manner. When you arrive, please look for the signs and pull into the back of the line of cars in the parking lot.
Avian Flu Update: What We Know So Far
We’re sharing this public service announcement (PSA) in partnership with the UTMB School of Public & Population Health to help keep our community informed.
Working together with UTMB SPPH, we’re focused on sharing timely, accurate updates about public health topics like avian flu.
Please feel free to share these infographics to help spread trusted information! Thank you to UTMB School of Public & Population Health for your collaboration.
View all infographics here. Text of the infographics is below.
How It Spreads
Avian flu is mostly spread through contact with infected birds and animals, not from person to person.
Know the Signs
If you show flu-like symptoms or conjunctivitis (pink eye) after exposure to birds or diary animals, let your healthcare provider know.
Testing Process
A follow-up PCR test is used to determine the specific strain of the virus if you test positive for influenza A.
Isolation Protocols
Patients with potential exposure are kept under precautionary isolation until test results confirm the virus type.
Treatment Options
Avian flu is treatable with available antivirals, so consult with a healthcare professional for guidance.
Trusted Resources
For more trusted information, visit cdc.gov.
Celebrating Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week
For Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week, April 13-19, the Galveston County Health District proudly recognizes the dedication and hard work of the Animal Resource Center’s Animal Control Officers. These officers play a vital role in protecting both public health and animal welfare by responding to emergencies, rescuing animals in distress, investigating cruelty cases, and promoting responsible pet ownership throughout the community.
Their work often goes unseen, but it is essential to maintaining the safety and well-being of both people and animals in Galveston County. Whether reuniting lost pets with their families or addressing potential public health risks, our officers go above and beyond each day with compassion, professionalism, and commitment.
We proudly recognize and celebrate our amazing ACO team: Trae Smith, Robert Kaufman, Rayson Johnson, and Faith Morh! Thank you for your service and unwavering dedication to the community; you truly make a difference every single day.
STI Awareness Week: Do You Know Your Status?
Did you know that many STIs are not noticed because they often have no symptoms? Testing is the only way to know for sure. The good news is that some infections can be cured, and all are treatable. If not treated, STIs can increase your chances of transmitting or getting HIV. An untreated STI can also lead to health problems, such as long-term pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty getting pregnant, and other pregnancy complications that can lead to serious health conditions for your baby.
Healthy Concepts Clinic offers confidential testing for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and hepatitis C, all for just a $10 visit fee! Your services are completely private and will never be billed to your insurance. If you test positive, free treatment is available for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Patients who test positive for HIV or hepatitis C will be connected with our ID Care Coordinator for continued support and access to treatment options.
The Healthy Concepts Clinic operates at two locations:
Galveston: Mondays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Island Community Center, 4700 Broadway, Suite F-101.
Texas City: Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.) at 9850-B Emmett F. Lowry Expy., Suite B-103.
For more information or to schedule a visit, you can contact the Galveston location at 409-938-2253 or the Texas City location at 409-978-4203. Appointments are not required, and walk-ins are welcome.
To learn more, visit the Healthy Concepts Clinic page.
Beat the Back-to-School Rush at GCHD Immunizations Clinic
As the new school year approaches, now is the perfect time to ensure your child is up to date on their vaccinations. Beat the rush and avoid the last-minute scramble by visiting the Galveston County Health District Immunizations Clinic for convenient walk-in clinic dates.
Clinic Dates:
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April 22 (8 AM - 6 PM)
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July 15 (8 AM - 6 PM)
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July 16 (8 AM - 4 PM)
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July 17 (8 AM - 4 PM)
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July 29 (8 AM - 6 PM)
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July 30 (8 AM - 4 PM)
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July 31 (8 AM - 4 PM)
No appointment needed—walk-ins only! Slots fill up quickly, so arrive early to secure your spot.
Location:
Galveston County Health District Immunizations Clinic
9850 Emmett F. Lowry Expy, Suite B-104, Texas City, TX 77591
Vaccines Available:
TVFC vaccines for eligible children 18 and under. Private vaccines are also available—call for pricing.
For more info, call 409.949.3459 or visit gchd.org/imm.
Beat the rush and get your child protected today!
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