Celebrate Health! Spring Ahead to Vermont Public Health Week: April 5 - 11, 2004

For Immediate Release: April 8, 2004

Contact:  Vermont Department of Health
Communication Office
802- 863-7281

BURLINGTON, VT - Gov. Jim Douglas kicks off Vermont Public Health Week on April 5 with his Fit and Healthy Kids Daylight Savings Challenge.

The governor is challenging kids all around the state to be more physically active and to turn off their TV during the extra daylight hours for fun and prizes. The challenge is part of the state’s Fit & Healthy Kids initiative to promote physical activity and healthy eating among children and families.

“Fit & Healthy Kids is one of the premier initiatives of Gov. Douglas and the Vermont Department of Health,” said Health Commissioner Paul Jarris, MD. “Fit & Healthy Kids will raise awareness and prompt action through a combination of promotions, community health, fitness and recreation grants, and coordinated school health programs. This is in keeping with our mission to enable Vermonters to lead healthy lives in healthy communities.”

In 2003, 74 percent of youth in grades 8 - 12 were not physically active on five or more days a week and 73 percent did not eat the recommended five servings of fruit and vegetables per day.

Throughout the week, local Health Department offices will be highlighting public health with local displays, ads, and presentations - and in the daily work of investigating disease outbreaks, preparing for emergencies, improving school environments, preventing substance abuse, and changing the health care system to meet the needs of the 21st century.

Public Health Week April 5 - 11:

Monday, April 5:

Tuesday, April 6: