May 4, 2026. Reno/Sparks, Nev. – Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH), through its Air Quality Management Division (AQMD), is recognizing Air Quality Awareness Week (AQAW), May 4-8, 2026.
This national campaign highlights how air quality impacts health, which is an important issue in Northern Nevada, where wildfire smoke and seasonal pollution can affect daily life.
Each day focuses on a key topic:
- May 4: Wildland Fires and Smoke
- May 5: Asthma and Your Health (World Asthma Day 2026)
- May 6: Indoor Air Quality
- May 7: Air, Animals, and Plants
“Wildfire smoke is one of the biggest air quality challenges in our region,” said Francisco Vega, Division Director for NNPH-AQMD. “Checking the Air Quality Index and making small adjustments like limiting outdoor activity during smoky days can make a big difference for your health.”
Check out NNPH social media channels to find daily air quality tips throughout Air Quality Awareness Week. Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #AQAW2026.
AQMD’s Keep It Clean Programs are important actions residents can take to help our air quality in Washoe County:
- Be Smoke Smart – Protect yourself from wildfire smoke
- Rack Em Up – Cycling when you can, instead of driving
- Know the Code – When using a wood-burning device
- nOzone – Take care of our air
- Be Idle Free – Keep your vehicle emissions in check
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also has resources to increase air quality awareness for the themes of the week: Wildland Fires and Smoke, Asthma and Your Health, Indoor Air Quality, and Air, Animals and Plants.
NNPH’s AQMD monitors local air quality, regulates pollution sources, and provides real-time data to the community.
For more information on air quality in Washoe County, visit www.OurCleanAir.com. You can also get real-time air quality updates at www.AirNow.gov or download the AirNow app wherever you get your mobile apps.
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Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH) is nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board and has jurisdiction over all public health matters in Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County through the policy-making District Board of Health. NNPH consists of four public-facing divisions: Air Quality Management, Community and Clinical Health Services, Environmental Health Services and Population Health. More info can be found here.