MOUNT VERNON — The Knox County Health Department works with various groups and individuals throughout the county to coordinate programs, data, and public health and safety events. The 5th Annual Partners in Public Health Breakfast and Awards was held this morning to honor some of those who have gone above and beyond the call of duty when partnering with the health department.

“These people work on a day-to-day basis making sure Knox County is a healthier and safer place to live,” said Dennis Murray, health commissioner.

In 2009, the health department was focussed on the H1N1 virus and making sure Knox County’s first responders and citizens were vaccinated. In order to do this in a timely fashion, the health department called on the Knox County Career Center’s practical nursing class of 2010.