Public health data refers to the information collected about the health status, behaviors, and outcomes of populations. This data helps public health officials understand health trends, identify health issues, and evaluate the effectiveness of health programs. It can include statistics on diseases, vaccination rates, and health behaviors, among other factors. Sources of public health data include surveys, health records, and vital statistics, such as birth and death rates. Organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) play crucial roles in gathering and analyzing this data to inform policies and improve community health.