Public Health Institution

The US Constitution is the supreme law of the land. No federal, state, or local laws, regulations, or court decisions can contradict it.

The power of states to make and enforce laws that protect the health and safety of their citizens. This includes taxing, spending, and other measures.

The branch of government that makes laws. In the US, this is Congress, which includes the Senate and House of Representatives.

The branch of government that carries out the laws. This includes the President and the various executive agencies, like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The branch of government that interprets the laws. This includes the Supreme Court and lower federal courts.

The level of government closest to the people. Local governments are responsible for enforcing state and local laws, providing services, and managing local issues.

Requirements, prohibitions, and standards set by the government. These are generally mandatory and are meant to ensure public health and safety. Examples include animal regulations, safety standards, and environmental regulations.

Government initiatives designed to address public health issues. Programs can include funding for assistance, educational campaigns, and service provision. They can be administered by government agencies or non-governmental organizations. Examples include vaccination programs.

A strategy that aims to reduce the negative consequences of a behavior without trying to change the behavior itself.

The spread of a disease through an unvaccinated population.

A legal precedent that allows states to enact compulsory vaccination laws, even if they restrict individual freedom.

An approach to science where findings are influenced by personal biases, making them less objective.

The ability of a population to resist the spread of disease due to a high percentage of immunity.

A public health intervention that aims to reduce the spread of diseases like HIV/AIDS by providing clean needles and health advice.

A situation where there is a conflict over the use of vaccines, often due to concerns about safety or effectiveness.

The use of forensic techniques to investigate and track the spread of diseases, like measles.