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The Honolulu Advertiser
Updated at 6:17 p.m., Friday, September 26, 2008

Health officials issue vog advisory

Advertiser Staff

A vog advisory has been issued by state health officials and the Hawai'i County Civil Defense for parts of the Big Island and possibly Neighbor Islands because a shift in the wind is expected to a southwesterly Kona wind.

Kona winds bring vog conditions for communities located northeast of the Kilauea summit, which includes the community of Volcano, middle and upper Puna, Hilo, Hamakua and South Kohala, authorities said.

Neighbor Islands may also be affected, according to the state Department of Health.

Residents and visitors are advised to be prepared and aware of the conditions. Those affected by air quality should:

• Reduce outdoor activities that cause heavy breathing.

• Stay indoors and close windows and doors.

• Keep medications on hand and readily available.

• Contact a doctor as soon as possible if any health problems develop as respiratory conditions can worsen rapidly.

• Do not smoke and avoid second-hand smoke.

• Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

For more information, go to http://hawaii.gov/health or call the Vog Helpline at 866-767-5044.