Scripps Emergency Medical Experts Offer Air Quality Tips

SAN DIEGO (Oct. 24, 2007) – Hazardous air quality caused by the San Diego wildfires has created a significant public health hazard, and emergency department physicians from Scripps hospitals in San Diego County are available to share practical ways for the public to minimize their risk to respiratory distress and other related ailments.

Smoke and airborne debris are dangerous to health, especially for sensitive populations such as the elderly and those with respiratory and cardiovascular disease. Environmental conditions often worsen as the fires subside and winds stir up ash and debris.

Patients continue to arrive at Scripps’ five emergency departments and urgent care centers with a wide range of conditions associated with the wildfires, such as respiratory distress, eye irritation, chest pain, hypertension, sinus infections and anxiety.

Scripps’ emergency room physicians and pulmonary experts are available to discuss the health impact of poor air quality, and can offer tip for minimizing risk to respiratory distress.

All five of Scripps’ acute care hospital campuses – Scripps Mercy Hospital in Hillcrest, Scripps Mercy Hospital Chula Vista, Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, Scripps Green Hospital and Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas – are open to provide ongoing patient care and emergency services. In addition, outpatient care is available today at Scripps Clinic Mission Valley, Scripps Clinic Santee and Scripps Mercy Medical Group in Hillcrest.

Patients seeking updated information should please visit www.scripps.org or call 1-800-SCRIPPS.