Environmental Health Workforce - Essential for Interdisciplinary Solutions to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Environmental Health Science

Background:

• Interdisciplinary public health solutions are essential for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) response and recovery.
• The environmental health workforce, a foundational and large component of U.S. health departments, protects the public from environmental hazards and disease outbreaks.
• Despite its recognized role and legislative support, this workforce is often overlooked as an essential service.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance and capabilities of the environmental health workforce in public health.
• To advocate for the integration of the environmental health workforce into COVID-19 response and recovery efforts.
• To underscore the need for recognizing environmental health as an essential service.

Main Methods:

• Review of the roles and responsibilities of the environmental health workforce.
• Analysis of the potential contributions of this workforce to pandemic preparedness and response.
• Examination of legislative support and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.

Main Results:

• The environmental health workforce plays a critical role in managing risks related to sanitation, water, food safety, vector control, and mass gatherings.
• This workforce is well-positioned for rapid integration into COVID-19 activities due to their experience in complex situations and government employment.
• Legislative support and existing evidence provide a strong foundation for mobilizing this workforce.

Conclusions:

• Mobilizing the environmental health workforce is key to strengthening interdisciplinary public health solutions.
• Enhanced recognition and integration of this workforce are vital for effective COVID-19 response, recovery, and long-term resilience.
• Supporting the environmental health workforce is crucial for future public health challenges.