Mississippi’s Public Health Report Card has revealed critical health issues, including the nation’s highest firearm death rate and the lowest infant mortality rate. The report also emphasized ongoing struggles in heart disease, maternal health, and substance abuse.
While Mississippi moved up to 49th in national health rankings, the state still faces significant public health concerns. In 2023, more than 800 firearm-related deaths were reported in the state, making it the highest in the nation for firearm-related fatalities.
The state’s health challenges extend to college campuses like Southern Miss, where students have access to resources aimed at addressing some of these issues. On-campus services such as the Payne Center for fitness, the Moffitt Health Center for health services, and the University Police Department for safety are available to students.
Dr. Vickie Reed, a public health professional at USM, discussed the importance of education and accessible healthcare for students.
“It goes back to what we know to be education, social determination availability of healthcare,” Reed said. “Our students here at the University of Southern Mississippi because of their education, they’re going to have higher co-groups. So, receiving this information when going into the workplace, how do you assist our community and make that better? If you’re in education, you might work with those who are in public health to design interventions for schools…I know that in Mississippi we are number one in the bad things but on the other side of that we had the highest vaccination rate in the country at one point.”
Mississippi ranked third nationwide for vaccinations, with the 2023-2024 school-required vaccination rates exceeding 97.5%, surpassing the national average of 91%. The state’s efforts to improve public health also depend on student participation in health initiatives.
USM students shared how they manage their well-being through campus resources.
“I like to, you know, if I have time, I go to the gym, usually every day, at least six times a week,” said student Maddox Elarton. “And other than that, I just take time to rest and relax as much as I can.”
Alyana Poyd, also a student, shared her experiences with managing her well-being.
“I try to like, stay from around different things that are triggering my mental health,” Poyd said. “I go to the Payne Center once in a while and just exercise and stuff, then that actually makes me feel better.”
The Moffitt Health Center, Payne Center, and Counseling Services provide vital resources for USM students, offering mental health support, physical exams, vaccinations, and more to help combat public health challenges highlighted in the recent report card.
