Public Health

Post-immunization titres to determine immunity following a complete vaccine series are often not necessary. For example, anti-HBs titres following completed hepatitis B virus vaccination series are unnecessary in the general population. Similarly, serologic testing for measles, mumps and rubella immunity following two doses of MMR is not necessary.

Rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (including rabies vaccine and immunoglobulin) should only be offered to individuals with known or highly probable contact with the saliva of a potentially infected animal. Risk assessment should be based on type of exposure, local rabies epidemiology, symptoms of the animal, ability to test or observe the animal for rabies, prior rabies immunization of the animal and exposed person, and if necessary, consultation with local public health officials. In general, the risk of rabies from domestic animals (e.g., pets) is extremely low.

Understanding a patient’s perspective with a thorough social history will provide valuable information about their determinants of health, which is critical for nuanced diagnoses and a better adapted management plan. As barriers are identified and addressed management plans can be re-evaluated in collaboration with the patient.

Pre-placement TSTs should not be a universal requirement of employees and volunteers in settings where healthcare services are not delivered. Workplace TB screening policies should only be implemented based on the findings of an organization-specific TB risk assessment. If implemented, workplace TB screening should avoid universal TST/IGRA testing by screening for individual TB risk factors first. TSTs should not be used on patients suspected of having active disease as they are unhelpful and unnecessarily delay diagnosis.

Antibiotic prophylaxis for iGAS is currently offered routinely for household and other close contacts of those infected with severe iGAS. However, it may not be necessary for all such contacts. Individuals in which prophylaxis should be considered are those who are immunocompromised or may be more susceptible to infection, particularly neonates. Prevention and monitoring measures should be discussed with all household and close contacts of confirmed iGAS cases.

Reduce environmental impact and maximize health co-benefits by engaging in active transportation (walking or cycling), using public transportation, or carpooling.

Promoting active transportation such as biking and walking, public transportation, and carpooling is an effective strategy for reducing an organization’s carbon footprint and improving air quality. Reducing the number of vehicles on the road helps lower CO₂ emissions, improves air quality, and decreases noise pollution, leading to healthier and more pleasant communities. To support these practices, organizations can offer incentives for carpooling, provide subsidies for public transport passes, and install bike racks and showers to encourage biking to work.

When opportunities arise, lead system changes to prioritize effective upstream preventive and health promotion strategies by engaging communities. This improves physical, emotional and social wellbeing and reduces chronic and communicable diseases.

Emphasizing preventive measures such as promoting healthy behaviors, vaccines, and screening can substantially reduce disease incidence and the associated environmental impact. This requires system change and leadership. Preventive interventions are cost-effective and help decrease the need for more resource-intensive treatments later. By preventing diseases, there is reduced reliance on resource-heavy treatments and medications, minimizing medical waste and carbon emissions.