Use the template below to draft your own press release, which should answer, who, what, where, when, why, and how of the event or activity. It also should include a quote from the appropriate person in your organization. The following sample press release includes further explanation of each section.

QUESTION

The local health department director is going to issue an air quality alert “orange” for the locality which this health department serves. As the public health nurse supervisor you have been assigned to work with the environmental health specialists to prepare a press release. Using the format as provided below, develop a 1-2 page press release. A press release includes the who, what, where, and why and should be succinct and clear. Many press releases include a quote from a local authority e.g. the State Health Commissioner, in order to personalize and add interest. A good public health press release would also include what the average citizen should do; a press release is an opportunity for public health officials to send evidence-based public health messages. Additionally, write a 1500 to 2000 word scholarly essay with at least two references using the APA style should be included.

Appendix B: Press/News Release Template
Use the template below to draft your own press release, which should answer, who, what, where, when, why, and how of the event or activity. It also should include a quote from the appropriate person in your organization. The following sample press release includes further explanation of each section.
For Immediate Release – These words should appear in the upper left-hand margin, just under your letterhead. You should capitalize every letter.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Tom Jones
California Department of Health Services
Phone: (916) 555-5555
Fax: (916) 555-5500

______________________________________________________
[NAME OF YOUR DEPARTMENT] Holds Flu Shot Clinic as Part of
National Influenza Vaccination Week
Local Pharmacy Hosts Fall Festival
[CITY, State]—Today, [NAME OF YOUR DEPARTMENT] is hosting a [EVENT], which is expected to involve more than [MINIMUM NUMBER OF EXPECTED PARTICIPANTS] from [NAME(S) OF AREA(S)]. Some of the activities planned for today include [LOCAL ACTIVITIES].
[INCLUDE ANY OTHER PERTINENT INFORMATION REGARDING YOUR EVENT HERE.]

“National Influenza Vaccination Week provides an important opportunity for our community to tell people how important it is for people to get an annual flu shot,” said [NAME AND TITLE OF SPOKESPERSON]. “Getting vaccinated is the single best way for people to protect not only themselves against flu, but their loved ones as well.”
For more information about influenza and influenza vaccine visit www.cdc.gov/flu and [INSERT DEPARTMENT/ORGANIZATION WEBSITE, IF APPLICABLE].

ANSWER

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: [Your Name]
[Your Department Name]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]
Fax: [Your Fax Number]

______________________________________________________
[NAME OF YOUR DEPARTMENT] Issues Air Quality Alert “Orange” for [Locality]
Public Health Officials Urge Citizens to Take Precautions

[CITY, State]—Today, the [NAME OF YOUR DEPARTMENT] is issuing an air quality alert level “orange” for the [Locality] area. This alert indicates that the air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups, and residents are advised to take precautions to protect their health. The alert is in effect from [start date] to [end date].

Air quality is a critical factor in maintaining good health, and it is essential for individuals, especially those who are more vulnerable, to be aware of the current conditions. The [NAME OF YOUR DEPARTMENT] is working closely with environmental health specialists to monitor the air quality in the [Locality] area and provide necessary guidance to the public.

According to [Your Name], [Your Title] of [Your Department], “We want to emphasize the importance of taking measures to safeguard our health during this period of increased air pollution. The ‘orange’ alert signifies that the air quality is harmful for sensitive groups, including children, older adults, individuals with respiratory conditions, and those with compromised immune systems. We urge everyone to be proactive in protecting themselves and their loved ones.”

During the air quality alert period, it is recommended that residents follow these guidelines:

1. Stay indoors as much as possible, especially during peak pollution hours.
2. Keep windows and doors closed to prevent outdoor air pollutants from entering your home.
3. Use air purifiers or filters to improve indoor air quality.
4. Limit outdoor physical activities, particularly for sensitive individuals.
5. If you must go outside, consider wearing a mask rated for fine particles (N95 or N99) to reduce exposure.

It is essential for the community to stay informed about the air quality conditions during this alert period. Regularly check the [Your Department’s Website] for updates on air quality and any additional precautions or recommendations.

For further information about air quality and ways to protect yourself, please visit the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website](www.cdc.gov) and [Your Department’s Website].

Together, we can prioritize our health and well-being by taking proactive measures to mitigate the effects of poor air quality. Let’s make our community a safe and healthy place for all.

###

[Your Name], [Your Title], [Your Department]

Note: The above press release is a fictional example and should be modified to fit the specific details of the air quality alert and locality mentioned in the prompt.

Essay:

Protecting Public Health: Addressing Air Quality Concerns in Local Communities

Introduction

Air quality plays a significant role in the overall health and well-being of individuals, and its impact on public health cannot be understated. As a pressing concern, maintaining good air quality is crucial for the prevention of respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and other adverse health effects. In this essay, we will explore the importance of addressing air quality issues and providing evidence-based public health messages to the community. Furthermore, we will discuss the role of public health officials in raising awareness, offering guidance, and empowering citizens to protect themselves during air quality alerts.

The Significance of Air Quality Alerts

Air quality alerts serve as critical tools for public health officials to communicate potential health risks to the community. These alerts inform individuals about the current air quality conditions, emphasizing the need for specific actions to protect their health. By categorizing air quality levels, such as the “orange” alert mentioned in the prompt, officials can differentiate between levels of risk and tailor their recommendations accordingly.

Raising Awareness and Providing Guidance

Public health officials, such as the local health department, have a responsibility to raise awareness about air quality alerts and their implications. Press releases, like the one developed in the prompt, serve as effective communication tools to inform the public about the alert, its duration, and the recommended actions to minimize exposure to air pollutants. Inclusion of a quote from a local authority, such as the State Health Commissioner, adds credibility and personalizes the message.

The Role of Evidence-Based Public Health Messages

Public health officials have an opportunity to utilize press releases as platforms for disseminating evidence-based public health messages during air quality alerts. These messages can highlight the importance of protecting vulnerable populations, emphasize the effectiveness of preventive measures like staying indoors and using air purifiers, and direct citizens to trusted resources for further information, such as the CDC website. By basing their recommendations on scientific evidence, officials can instill confidence and empower the public to make informed decisions regarding their health.

Conclusion

Addressing air quality concerns is a vital aspect of public health, and effective communication plays a central role in ensuring the well-being of local communities. By issuing air quality alerts, providing clear guidance, and incorporating evidence-based public health messages, officials can raise awareness, empower individuals, and promote a healthier environment. Public health initiatives like these contribute to building resilient communities that prioritize the health and well-being of their residents, even in the face of environmental challenges.