Wood County Health Department Issues Air Quality Alert
Posted
6/27/2023
by
Kristie.Egge@woodcountywi.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
6/27/23
CONTACT: Susan Smith, Wood County Health Department Director/Health Officer
(715) 421-8911
Wood County Health Department Issues Air Quality Alert
Wisconsin Rapids, WI – Wood County is currently under an air quality advisory due to the presence of smoke from the Canadian wildfires. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is currently in the Red “Unhealthy” category, which means everyone may experience health effects and members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects. Those with existing medical conditions such as asthma, heart disease, and COPD are at higher risk and should take precautions seriously.
Health effects may include:
- irritation of the eyes, nose and throat
- coughing
- wheezing
- phlegm
- chest tightness
- shortness of breath
- asthma attack
- heart attack
- stroke
To stay safe during this time, people in the Wood County area should consider the following recommendations:
- Avoid long or intense outdoor activities
- Close your windows and doors
- Run A/C on recirculate
- Use an air purifier and use a high quality air filter in your HVAC system
- Wear an N95 mask if you have to be outside, especially those with existing medical conditions
- Check on your friends, family, and neighbors, especially older adults and pregnant people, to ensure their safety
Additional updates are available at AirNow.gov and guidance can be accessed in the Air Quality Guide for Particle Pollution.
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