Herminia Palacio, MD, M.P.H. Executive Director	Public Health & Environmental Services 2223 West Loop South Houston, Texas 77027	Phone: (713) 439-6000 Fax: (713) 439-6080

May 2, 2003

**AIR QUALITY WATCH/HEALTH ALERT**

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Rita Obey

(713)439-6293

Smoke From Mexico Approaches Harris County

Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services is issuing an “Air Quality Watch/Health Alert.” HCPHES issues an “Air Quality Watch/Health Alert” when it appears that there is the likelihood that air pollutants may reach levels that can have an adverse public health impact in Harris County.

On Tuesday, April 29, 2003, moderate levels of smoke from southeastern Mexico and Central America pushed into parts of southern Texas. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality predicts that the smoke is likely to continue affecting parts of the eastern two-thirds of Texas through Wednesday, May 7, 2003.

If heavy smoke production continues in eastern Mexico and Central America, satellite models (as of May 2, 2003) indicate that by early next week stronger winds in the Gulf may increase the chance that smoke levels could reach the Orange Level in Harris County (http://www.tceq.state.tx.us//updated/air/monops/airpollevents/2003/030429ani-coverage.html). The Orange Level is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups (for example people with heart or lung disease, the elderly, children and pregnant women). Should we reach an Orange Level, these persons should limit prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion and limit time spent outdoors. In addition, persons with asthma should follow their respective asthma management plan.

To limit your exposure to adverse health effects, keep doors and windows closed. If cooling is needed, turn air-conditioning to re-circulate mode in your home and car. As an additional protective measure, avoid indoor sources of pollutants, including tobacco smoke, frying or broiling foods, and using paints solvents and adhesives.

Most healthy adults and children are expected to recover quickly from any symptoms of short-term exposure like coughing, wheezing, or eye and throat irritation. The Environmental Protection Agency expects the long-term risk from this exposure to be low.

Should the smoke reach the Orange Level or higher in Harris County, Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services will issue another news release.

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