HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-05-09 Vog-Dashboard-info-advice-on-volcanic-health-hazardsDEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
DAVID Y. IGE
GOVERNOR
VIRGINIA PRESSLER, M.D.
DI RECTOR
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 9, 2018 18-041
Vog Dashboard offers comprehensive information and
advice on volcanic health hazards
HILO, HI — As the lava flow from Kilauea volcano on Hawaii Island continues and southerly
winds occasionally prevail, vog conditions and the presence of sulfur dioxide (SO2) in the air
may increase and fluctuate in various areas of the state. While these intermittent conditions do
not pose a public health threat in areas beyond the evacuation zone, they have raised concerns
about respiratory health and questions about precautionary actions.
The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) is encouraging residents and visitors to access the
Hawaii Interagency Vog Information Dashboard at www.ivhhn.orq/vog/ for the most
comprehensive and up-to-date online information on vog and SO2 from volcanic activity in
Hawaii. DOH is also working on positioning additional SO2 and particulate monitoring equipment
around the eruption site. Once the equipment is up and running, DOH air quality data from the
site will become available online for the public.
The result of a partnership with the International Volcanic Health Hazard Network (IVHHN),
County of Hawaii, state and federal agencies, the Vog Information Dashboard provides
complete, clear and current information on the health effects of vog, how to protect yourself, vog
and wind forecasts, air quality, water catchment systems, acid rain, air purifiers, and advice for
visitors. This one -stop -shop includes all relevant information in nine primary areas of interest.
The site also provides a friendly community forum for questions and discussion about vog and
SO2 at Vog Talk. Go to https://www.facebook.com/groups/VogTalk/about/ to submit a question
or join an online group discussion. Vog Talk is a public forum for people to share their stories,
concerns and useful information about vog and its impacts.
Hawaii residents and visitors are advised to be prepared and aware of the surrounding
conditions, and how they feel or may react to vog in the air. In the event of vog conditions, the
following precautionary measures are advised:
• Reduce outdoor activities that cause heavy breathing. Avoiding outdoor activity and
exercise during vog conditions can reduce exposure and minimize health risks. This is
especially important for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals
with pre-existing respiratory conditions including asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and
chronic lung and heart disease.
• Stay indoors and close windows and doors. If an air conditioner is used, set it to
recirculate.
• Always keep medications on hand and readily available. Daily prescribed medications,
should be taken on schedule and may provide protection from the effects of sulfur
dioxide.
• Contact a doctor as soon as possible if any health problems develop.
• Do not smoke and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
• Have family emergency plans prepared and ready.
• Heed warnings by county and state emergency management officials.
The Interagency Vog Dashboard is a partnership between the International Volcanic Health
Hazard Network (Durham University, UK), Hawaii State Department of Health, the USGS
Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, Hawaii County Civil Defense, the National Park Service,
County of Hawaii (Mayor's Office), CSAV (University of Hawaii) and the US Department of
Agriculture Farm Service Agency.
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