European Public Health Week

This year, from 13 to 17 May, the European Public Health Week is taking place in Ukraine for the sixth time

This event aims to draw attention to the health and well-being of citizens and to promote cooperation between specialised communities in Europe.

The European Public Health Week was launched in 2019. Ukraine joined it at the same time

Public health is a term that goes beyond the medical field. It is about ensuring that people not only live long lives, but also remain active, bright minds and love of life until the very old age. It is also about the mental and social well-being of each of us

The point is that health is not something that is present or absent by coincidence. In fact, public health is a set of choices and actions. This includes the formation (and reform) of the healthcare system, cooperation between governmental and non-governmental organisations, business and civil society, and care: the state - about citizens, citizens - about each other and the state, and each of us - about our own health.

Every citizen has the right to healthcare under the Constitution. This right includes, in particular:

• medical care and assistance;
• safe environment;
• protection against the effects of natural and man-made disasters;
• sanitary and epidemiological well-being;
• safe and healthy working, learning, living and recreational conditions.

At the same time, we are all responsible for our health and can influence its preservation with simple actions and decisions. What everyone can do:

• to maintain a healthy lifestyle;
• get all vaccinations according to the schedule, including in adulthood;
• self-isolate in the event of an infectious disease;
• use barrier contraception;
• go for preventive check-ups every year, even if nothing hurts;
• get tested for HIV and hepatitis C every year to start treatment on time and avoid infecting others;
• take first aid courses to help others if necessary;
• share truthful health information with others and use only official sources of information.

During the European Public Health Week, we will remind you of simple things that help prevent the most common diseases, promote health, and highlight the topics of taking care of your own mental well-being and supporting your family and friends