Good Health Doesn’t Just Happen
From Allegany County,
Belmont, NY – For more than 200 years, public health has reshaped what is possible in the United States—adding decades to life expectancy and significantly improving quality of life. The Allegany County Department of Health (ACDOH) is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of county residents through impactful, measurable initiatives and community support.
April 6–12, 2026, is National Public Health Week. It is an opportunity to recognize the dedication of ACDOH staff, partners, and volunteers who work every day to make Allegany County a healthier place to live. The department remains committed to protecting and improving the health of all residents through prevention, education, environmental health, emergency preparedness, and strong community partnerships.
Residents are encouraged to join ACDOH in celebrating National Public Health Week by learning more about available local services, practicing healthy behaviors, and participating in community efforts that promote wellness for all.
As we observe National Public Health Week (NPHW), ACDOH is highlighting key accomplishments that reflect the three core tenets of public health: prevention, promotion, and protection.
Public Health in Action Across Allegany County
- Rabies Prevention & Protection:
ACDOH administers a grant focused on domestic animal rabies prevention and human post‑exposure treatment. The department hosts four rabies vaccination clinics annually, with 2026 clinics scheduled for April 25, June 6, August 8, and September 26. These clinics provide an average of 600–800 free rabies vaccinations each year, protecting both residents and pets.
- Expanded Access to Preventive Services:
ACDOH has improved access to essential preventive care, including immunizations, physicals, and reproductive and sexual health clinics to better meet community needs.
- Community Health Education & Outreach:
The department expanded health education efforts by increasing access to information through in‑person workshops and community events, school‑based lessons, social media campaigns, and partnerships with local organizations, helping residents make informed health decisions.
- Emergency Preparedness & Response:
ACDOH strengthened county readiness by conducting joint emergency preparedness drills with local hospitals, ensuring coordinated responses during public health and medical emergencies.
- Maternal Health & Early Childhood Development:
ACDOH strengthens maternal and child health by partnering with families, schools, and healthcare providers to deliver childhood development services, including occupational, physical, and speech therapy to 381 children in Allegany County. Our programs help families address service gaps for children with special healthcare needs; and provide breastfeeding support, nutrition education, and assistance through WIC, which served 1,044 participants in March alone.
- Lead Remediation and Home Protection
Through a partnership with Cattaraugus County Health Department, ACDOH has secured HUD grant funding to renovate and repair homes impacted by lead hazards. The remediation work will launch this spring with over $350,000 in funding available, and $1.2 million over the next four years to help protect families and improve housing safety.
For more information, visit our website alleganyco.gov/departments/health or find us on Facebook at Allegany County Department of Health or call 585-268-9250.
