Herald reporter Sharon Salyer has been named a Public Health Champion in the media category by the Washington State Public Health Association.
Ten others received the award in different categories for their work in disease prevention and health promotion, according to the Seattle-based organization.
Salyer was nominated for the award by the Snohomish Health District.
“Sharon Salyer is dedicated to presenting useful information to the public, and she has been exceptionally helpful in getting the word out about the whooping cough epidemic in Snohomish County,” said Dr. Gary Goldbaum, director and health officer for the Snohomish Health District.
“Her work and words have raised public awareness of the scope and severity of the epidemic, leading many residents to seek the vaccination that prevents the spread of the disease,” Goldbaum said.
Salyer has been a reporter at The Herald for 27 years.
“Helping people understand both what’s at risk and what they can do to help protect themselves and their family from any disease, including whooping cough, has always been one of the most enjoyable parts of my job,” she said.
“I hope my reporting has helped raise awareness of how quickly whooping cough is spreading, both in Snohomish County and in Washington.”
Bill Sheets: 425-339-3439; sheets@heraldnet.com.
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