Climate and Health

The ongoing effects of impact every part of our lives, including our individual and community-level health. From rising temperatures, increased occurrence and magnitude of natural disasters, expanded vector-borne disease patterns, to increased transmission of waterborne diseases—the changing natural environment in which we live will affect our health.

These issues have led to significant negative health effects on both individuals and populations, particularly high-risk communities. As such, public health departments must address how best to respond to this ongoing crisis. State and territorial health agencies can use surveillance tools, create vulnerability assessments, and develop adaptation plans to prepare and respond to the adverse health effects of climate and extreme weather events.