Health officials around the region have continued air quality advisories into the current week.  The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s Air Quality Index readings from monitoring stations in The Dalles and Government Camp are at the “moderate” level, similar to most locations in the central and eastern part of the state.  Public health agencies in the region advise people to avoid outdoor exertion in smoky conditions.  Drink lots of water to keep airways moist and reduce symptoms of respiratory irritation, keep windows rolled up and vents closed while driving, and use a filter in your heating and cooling system that removes very fine particulate matter.  People with concerns about health issues should contact healthcare providers if necessary.