The mission of the New Haven Health Department is to ensure and advocate for the health and well-being of all New Haven residents.

The New Haven Health Department has a long tradition of protecting the health of city residents through disease prevention and health promotion. Established in 1872 as the New Haven Health Commission, the Department has evolved from its beginnings combating poor sanitary practices and yellow fever epidemics. We've emerged as a leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS early in the epidemic, establishing one of the first syringe exchange programs in the country 28 years ago. Today, we continue to provide the essential public health services and enforce the Public Health Code as outlined in state statutes and the city charter. This also includes responding to complaints of public health nuisances as well as ensuring environmental health and safety and curbing disease outbreaks.

We work to ensure the health of our residents, particularly our most vulnerable neighbors. We provide school nursing services, maternal and child health case management, health screenings, and health education.

Our Department works to promote public health by providing expertise to guide health policy reforms. We provide evidence-based public health programs, such as the Department's Opioid Overdose Program, launched in 2015.

View the New Haven Health Department 2021 Annual Report

Read the New Haven Community Fall-Winter Health Guidance

Lee la Guía de Salud de Otoño e Invierno