Contrary to popular belief, tornadoes occur in all 50 states, not just in those that make up "tornado alley" in the midwest. In this whirlwind of an article, author Helen Casey dispels the myths and shares practical information on how health departments can develop a communications plan to deal with the destructive aftermath of a twister. She also addresses the key health messages that need to be conveyed to the public.

The arrival of spring translates into warm mosquito-filled days and, subsequently, the increasing public anxiety over West Nile Fever, an emerging disease that arrived in the Untied States in 1999. This article details how New York City and CDC worked together to educate the public about the virus when it first arrived, and offers helpful tips on what your state health department can do to effectively communicated with the press and public on the same issue. Additionally, we provide an overview of what states are proactively doing today in preparation for the virus to cross over their borders.

At the heart of public health is prevention, and that generally entails developing information campaigns to educate the public and the media about various health issues. How do you create a successful social marketing campaign? How do you develop a message that people will listen to? In this article, Prospect Associates- a social marketing agency that specializes in public health communications- shares 10 proven tips to get you on your way.