TO:     News Departments/ Reporters

WHAT:     State health care workers will host a media briefing to address the upcoming smallpox vaccinations that begin Feb. 13. Louisiana's plan calls for vaccinating the state's public health and health care response teams against the disease. Officials will describe what the smallpox virus is, why the nation is undergoing the vaccine process and what possible side effects a person can have after inoculation. Speakers include LDH Secretary David W. Hood, State Health Officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry and OPH Director of Immunizations Frank Welch. Media will have the opportunity to participate in a question-and-answer session with speakers. However, there will not be room for cameras. The briefing will take place at LDH Headquarters in Baton Rouge and will be broadcast to all regional OPH offices.

WHEN:     Thursday, January 30 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.

WHERE:      LDH Headquarters - 3rd floor training room, Baton Rouge

Broadcast Sites:
OPH Region 1 Office - 1010 Common St., Suite 700, New Orleans
OPH Region 3 Office - 1434 Tiger Drive, Thibodaux
OPH Region 4 Office - Brandywine III, Suite 100, 825 Kaliste Saloom Road, Lafayette
OPH Region 5 Office - 4240 Sen. J. Bennett Johnston, Lake Charles
OPH Region 6 Office - 1500 Lee St., Alexandria
OPH Region 7 Office - 1525 Fairfield Ave., Shreveport
OPH Region 8 Office - 2913 Betin St., Monroe
OPH Region 9 Office - 21454 Koop Drive, Suite. 1C, Mandeville