Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

Contacts: Cathy Rofshus, MPCA, 507-206-2608 Kari Etrheim, OCPHS, 507-328-7424 Rochester, Minn. -- "Air Pollution Health Alerts" are issued by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to advise citizens how polluted the air is, and what associated health effects might be a concern. The alerts focus on health effects some citizens may experience within a few hours or days after breathing polluted air. Several thousand people in Olmsted County are affected when the alerts are issued and should take precautions to protect their health. WHAT: Catch Your Breath: The Health Impact of Air Pollution in the Rochester Area
WHEN: Tuesday, April 28, from 4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
WHERE: Olmsted County Public Health Services, 2100 Campus Drive East, Rochester
WHO: Individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular concerns, their families and caregivers; school, neighborhood and community leaders; and health professionals may benefit most and are encouraged to attend.
WHY: Outdoor air pollutants increase the risk of triggering respiratory and cardiovascular problems, cancer and other health effects. Pollutants from myriad sources create odors and smog, diminish the protective ozone layer, and contribute to environmental problems, such as acid rain and global climate change. The program is a collaborative effort between Olmsted County Public Health Services, the MPCA, Zumbro Valley Medical Society and the Minnesota Department of Health. The program is free of charge and open to the public. Note to editors: Interviews with speakers and panelists available at 3:30 p.m. Please call Cathy or Kari to arrange.