Memphis, TN. -  The Memphis and Shelby County Health Department is planning a number of activities for National Public Health Week, April 2-5, 2007. The theme of this year's observance is "Take the First Step! Preparedness and Public Health Threats: Addressing the Unique Needs of the Nation's Vulnerable Populations."

"Throughout the year, your Health Department provides educational opportunities and the materials needed to help all residents in Memphis and Shelby County protect themselves from health dangers that could arise in the event of an emergency, such as a disease outbreak or a natural disaster.  Next week we are planning a number of activities designed to show what your Health Department is doing to help the community prepare for a public health emergency." said Yvonne S. Madlock, Director of the Memphis and Shelby County Health Department.

According to the American Public Health Association, Americans remain largely unprepared for public health emergencies, and many do not have any emergency plans in place. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, mothers with young children, and individuals with chronic health care needs are particularly at risk in the event of a disaster. National Public Health Week 2007 is about empowering residents and leaders to take steps to plan for health emergencies and ensure they have the proper resources, such as food, medicine and transportation.

The Memphis and Shelby County Health Department has planned the following activities during National Public Health Week 2007:

• Monday, April 2, 2007  
  Press Briefing on Pandemic Flu Planning
  Memphis and Shelby County Health Department Lobby
  814 Jefferson Avenue
  2:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Emergency Preparedness Display
Memphis and Shelby County Health Department Lobby
814 Jefferson Avenue
8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

• Tuesday, April 3, 2007  
  Public Health Morning Chat Series
  "Immunizations: Past, Present and Future Steps"
  Dr. Helen Morrow, Acting Health Officer
  Location: Hope and Healing Center, 1115 Union Avenue
  Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Vector Control Display and Demonstrations
Memphis and Shelby County Health Department Lobby
814 Jefferson Avenue
Time: 8:30-2:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, April 4, 2007 
  Public Health Morning Chat Series
  "Public Health and Partnerships: Stepping Together"
  Yvonne S. Madlock, Health Department Director
  Location Hope and Healing Center, 1115 Union Avenue
  Time: 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Pollution Control Display and Hybrid Car Demonstration
Memphis and Shelby County Health Department Lobby
814 Jefferson Avenue
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Memphis Area RideShare
Informational display about the RideShare Program
Memphis and Shelby County Health Department Lobby
814 Jefferson Avenue
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

For more information about National Public Health Week activities or Memphis and Shelby County Health Department programs and services, call (901) 544-7600 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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