Illinois Public Health Association

IPHA helps public health and healthcare professionals stay informed with convenient, high-quality training. Each month, we feature training opportunities for public health professionals on our website. Find out more about upcoming trainings here: IPHA | Upcoming Events | IPHA

The Illinois Public Health Association (IPHA) is more than a professional membership association–we’re a community. IPHA members work and study in every discipline of public health, in every county of Illinois. We all have the same vision: optimal health for all Illinoisans achieved through a robust public health system. Join us today! IPHA | Why Join IPHA

Colds, COVID-19, allergies, and sinus infections all have similar symptoms. It can be difficult to tell them apart. The common cold typically builds, peaks, and slowly disappears. It lasts a few days to a week. Nasal allergies cause sneezing, itchy nose and eyes, congestion, runny nose, and postnasal drip (mucus in your throat). They usually don’t cause the facial pain that sinus infections do. COVID-19 can cause additional symptoms, like fever and shortness of breath.

Sinusitis itself isn’t contagious. But the viruses and bacteria that can cause it are. Remember to follow good handwashing practices, avoid other people if you’re sick, and sneeze or cough into your elbow.

National Disease Intervention Specialists (DIS) Recognition Day is the first Friday in October. Whether tackling STI prevention, tuberculosis outbreak response, HIV exposure notification, or emergency response – DIS bring a special set of skills and level of dedication matched by few in the field. Find out more here: National Disease Intervention Specialists (DIS) Recognition Day | STI | CDC

National Women’s Health and Fitness Day is dedicated to promoting the importance of women’s health and fitness and encouraging women of all ages to make healthy lifestyle choices. Women are more prone to certain health conditions than men, such as osteoporosis, breast cancer, and heart disease. These conditions can be prevented or managed through healthy lifestyle choices, including regular exercise and eating a balanced diet.

Today is World Heart Day. A day to increase awareness of heart disease and stroke worldwide. We often put our own health at the bottom of the priority list. It is our own responsibility to know our family history and to communicate openly with our healthcare providers about our lifestyle, health concerns, and well-being so we may live longer and healthier lives.

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September marks National Recovery Month: treatment and recovery make it possible for individuals, families, and communities to heal and thrive. The month also promotes and supports new treatment and recovery practices, the nation's strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and communities who make recovery in all its forms possible.

September marks National Su***de Prevention Month in the United States—a powerful nationwide campaign dedicated to raising awareness, offering support, and encouraging open conversations about mental health and su***de prevention.
This month reminds us that every life matters and that by listening, learning, and taking action, we can help prevent su***de and offer hope to those who are struggling. Whether you’re a concerned friend, family member, teacher, or community leader, National Su***de Prevention Month is a chance for everyone to get involved and save lives. Su***de Prevention Communication Playbook | Su***de Prevention | CDC

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Today is National Gay Men's HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. This observance offers an opportunity to raise awareness about stopping HIV stigma and encouraging HIV testing, prevention, and treatment among gay and bisexual men, who often face multiple challenges—such as racism, homophobia, discrimination, and stigma—which may increase the risk of HIV.