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Washington State Department of Health

@doh.wa.gov
14K followers 624 following 1.3K posts

Welcome to the official Bluesky account for the Washington State Department of Health! We work with others to protect and improve the health of all people in our state. Visit us at doh.wa.gov

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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 22/09/2026
The autumnal equinox has arrived! Here's to wearing more layers and keeping respiratory illnesses away! Share your autumn recs & favs in the comments 👇
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 17/09/2026
We have released updated immunization schedules for children and adolescents and for adults. These recommendations are based on evidence from leading medical and public health organizations and outline who should receive vaccines, when, and under what conditions. doh.wa.gov/newsroom/doh...
doh.wa.gov
DOH releases 2026-2027 childhood and adult vaccine schedules
For immediate release: September 17, 2026 (26-059) Contact: DOH Communications Updated state standing order maintains COVID-19 vaccination access for everyone 6 months and older
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 16/09/2026
We published part 2 of our blog! Read Public Health Stories: Behind the Science of the Hood Canal PSP Event medium.com/wadepthealth...
medium.com
Public Health Stories: Behind the Science of the Hood Canal PSP Event
Learn how new laboratory testing helped detect increasing toxin levels early
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Reposted by Washington State Department of Health
UW DEOHS @uwdeohs.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
UW and @wadepthealth.bsky.social researchers are tracking wastewater to help improve the public health response to chlamydia and other sexually transmitted pathogens. @uwnews.uw.edu @uwsph.bsky.social deohs.washington.edu/news/its-pos...
deohs.washington.edu
It’s possible to test wastewater for STIs
UW and Washington State Department of Health use wastewater to help improve public health response to chlamydia and other sexually transmitted pathogens
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 09/09/2026
The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) is issuing immunization recommendations for the 2026-2027 respiratory virus season. These recommendations are informed by trusted national medical organizations, including @ameracadpeds.bsky.social, @acog.org, and @aafp.org.
doh.wa.gov
West Coast Health Alliance 2026-2027 respiratory virus season immunization recommendations
For immediate release: September 4, 2026 (26-058) Contact: DOH Communications
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 09/09/2026
Your Reason Is Reason Enough To Contact 988 medium.com/wadepthealth...
medium.com
Your Reason Is Reason Enough To Contact 988
988 is more than a suicide hotline. To celebrate 988 Day, we invited crisis counselors across Washington to share reasons people reach out…
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 08/09/2026
Read our latest blog! Public Health Stories: Hood Canal Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) Response medium.com/wadepthealth...
medium.com
Public Health Stories: Hood Canal Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) Response
How the Department of Health Detected and Responded to the Hood Canal PSP Shellfish Closure: An interview with Marine Biotoxin Lead Jerry…
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Reposted by Washington State Department of Health
Washington State Health Care Authority @wa-health-care.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
Did you know you need to report changes within 30 day if you have Apple Health (Medicaid) coverage? Types of changes to report: • Income • Address • Marital status • Household size • Incarceration • Citizenship status • And more! Learn more about reporting a change: hca.wa.gov/report-a-change
Report changes within 30 days
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 01/09/2026
Let's challenge some myths about food donation, because "extra" food can be a shared resource, not waste.
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Reposted by Washington State Department of Health
WHO @who.int · 31/08/2025
It's International #OverdoseAwarenessDay. #Opioid dependence is not a self-acquired bad habit but a complex #MentalHealth condition. 👉 bit.ly/3jsTqPI
Opioid dependence is not a self-acquired bad habit but a complex mental health condition. Illustration of a medicine bottle filling up, with a person inside it.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 26/08/2026
Congratulations to the 2026 Immunize WA Award winners! We’re recognizing Washington clinics and health care providers for their commitment to helping patients stay up to date on recommended vaccines. See the full list of 2026 Immunize Washington winners at doh.wa.gov/public-healt...
doh.wa.gov
Immunize Washington
In Celebration of National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM), the Health Plan Partnership is happy to announce the Immunize WA Award Winners. Congratulations to the 2026 Immunize WA Award Winners! H...
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 25/08/2026
If you are a Washington resident who lost a birth, death, marriage, or divorce certificate in the recent wildfires, you can request a replacement at no charge. If you qualify, visit doh.wa.gov/licenses-per....
doh.wa.gov
Vital Records
Free Vital Record Replacements for Those Impacted by Wildfire The Department of Health is temporarily providing certificates at no charge in relation to Governor Ferguson's Emergency Proclamation 26-0...
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 24/08/2026
You don’t need to be a vaccine expert to make an informed decision for yourself and your family, but knowing where the information comes from can help you decide if it’s trustworthy. Learn more at medium.com/wadepthealth...
medium.com
Who Can You Trust About Vaccines?
There’s a lot of conflicting information about vaccines and their safety. Here’s how to find trustworthy sources and make an informed…
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Reposted by Washington State Department of Health
Washington State Health Care Authority @wa-health-care.bsky.social · 23/08/2026
Did Apple Health (Medicaid) help you access critical care or services? We'd love to hear how it’s made a positive impact on your life. Your story can inspire hope for others! loom.ly/oZ01ts8
Three friends sit together in a living room, laughing.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 21/08/2026
Looking for trusted resources with vaccine recommendations during pregnancy and to make vaccine conversations easier? The first issue of Maternal Immunization Matters is packed with ready-to-use tools to help you talk with patients about why vaccines are important during pregnancy.
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Reposted by Washington State Department of Health
Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) @lniwa.bsky.social · 21/08/2026
lni.wa.gov
When rebuilding from fire damage, use L&I resources to protect against scams
A news release from Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 20/08/2026
You may have heard about changes coming to Medicaid, but nothing has changed yet. Not every Apple Health (Medicaid) member will be impacted. Right now, you can still sign up for an Apple Health plan or renew your coverage. Learn more at hca.wa.gov/hr1-changes
hca.wa.gov
Changes coming to Apple Health | Washington State Health Care Authority
Federal changes (known as H.R. 1) are coming to Apple Health (Medicaid) over the next few years, but there is nothing you need to do right now. These changes will roll out slowly, and many details are...
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Reposted by Washington State Department of Health
Gov. Bob Ferguson @governorferguson.bsky.social · 18/08/2026
Washington state has now disbursed $138,750 to 89 households in Individual Assistance through the Military Department. If you were affected by the wildfires in Central and Eastern Washington, see if you qualify:
mil.wa.gov
Wildfire Assistance
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 18/08/2026
Having questions about vaccines is normal and we’re here to help! It is important that children and teens receive vaccinations on schedule so they can stay healthy, avoid serious illness, and keep learning. Vaccinations teach your children's immune systems to recognize and resist contagious disease.
Illustration of two people in white lab or doctor coats. Text reads, "West Coast Health Alliance. Confused about the childhood vaccines schedule? We got you!"
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 18/08/2026
Our August issue of epiTRENDS has been published with an article about #Cyclosporiasis. #EpiSky content.govdelivery.com/attachments/...
content.govdelivery.com
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 18/08/2026
Adults Need Vaccines, Too by @WADeptHealth medium.com/wadepthealth...
medium.com
Adults Need Vaccines, Too
Vaccines help protect you throughout your life. Here’s what to know about adult immunizations and when to get them.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 13/08/2026
The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) bases its recommendations for vaccinations on guidelines from trusted professional medical and health organizations representing millions of healthcare providers, reflecting a broad consensus on the safety and benefits of the recommended immunizations.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 13/08/2026
Spokane residents impacted by the wildfires can replace lost or destroyed birth, marriage, divorce, and death certificates at no cost. Under the governor’s Emergency Proclamation, we can waive fees for replacement certificates for those affected by the fires.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 13/08/2026
A rabid bat was found at Staircase Bridge, Olympic National Park on August 9th. If you or someone you know had any contact with a bat near this area, seek medical care immediately.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 11/08/2026
Spokane residents impacted by the wildfires can replace lost or destroyed Birth Certificates at no cost. Under the governor’s Emergency Proclamation, we can waive fees for replacement birth certificates for those affected by the fires.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 11/08/2026
Meet one of our Mobile Command Vehicles. This one was deployed to help support the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation during the WA wildfires. We use these vehicles to provide a mobile office and workspace that can be deployed directly to an incident or emergency response location.
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Reposted by Washington State Department of Health
Washington State Health Care Authority @wa-health-care.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
HCA is reviewing how HR 1 will affect Apple Health. Our top priority is to keep you updated and let you know if you need to take action to keep your coverage. Visit this webpage for information on expected changes: loom.ly/92Yr7Wk
H.R. 1 and how it will impact Apple Health (Medicaid)
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 10/08/2026
It’s National Indigenous Milk Medicine Week! 🧡 We honor Milk Medicine—a sacred practice that has nourished and strengthened Indigenous families for generations. Breast and chest feeding is more than just nourishment; it reflects family, culture, and tradition. #MilkMedicine #NBM26 #WIC
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Reposted by Washington State Department of Health
Washington State Health Care Authority @wa-health-care.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
Family planning is for everyone, regardless of gender identity. With Family Planning Only coverage, you have access to sexual health education, birth control, office visits, follow up care, and more. Learn more at hca.wa.gov/family-planning
Family Planning Only is for everyone, regardless of gender identity.

See if you qualify for Family Planning Only at hca.wa.gov/family-planning
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 08/08/2026
Help is available for people affected by the wildfire. Find our list of health-related resources online. doh.wa.gov/wildfire-res...
doh.wa.gov
Wildfire Resources
The following resources are available to help people affected by the wildfires across the state.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 07/08/2026
Critical fire weather conditions are expected today through Saturday, Aug 8. A Red Flag Warning has been issued for the Cascades, Columbia Basin, Palouse, and Blue Mountains.
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Reposted by Washington State Department of Health
Gov. Bob Ferguson @governorferguson.bsky.social · 07/08/2026
I spoke to Secretary Kennedy to urge him to approve our request for a public health emergency declaration in the six counties and three Tribes impacted by wildfires. HHS has now declared a public health emergency. I’m grateful for his quick action.
OLYMPIA — Governor Bob Ferguson announced today that the United States Department of Health and Human Services approved his request to declare a Public Health Emergency in response to the devastating wildfires in Eastern Washington.

Today’s public health emergency declaration increases access to health care and critical services for those impacted by wildfires. It will speed refills or replacements for medication and medical supplies, reduce paperwork and authorization requirements for providers, allow for alternative care settings and temporarily relax other requirements.

The public health emergency covers the same areas as the federal emergency declaration Washington received on Aug. 4 — Chelan, Ferry, Okanogan, Spokane, Stevens and Yakima counties, as well as the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation and the Spokane Tribe of Indians.  

“I spoke to Secretary Kennedy to urge him to approve this request,” Governor Ferguson said. “I’m grateful for his quick action. This declaration allows us to eliminate red tape and helps impacted Washingtonians get the services they need faster.”

The Washington State Department of Health, Department of Social and Health Services and the Health Care Authority have been coordinating closely to help Washingtonians impacted by the wildfires and ensure they can still access essential health care since the wildfires began.State agencies are also working in coordination with Tribal governments and Tribal health partners to identify and respond to urgent health care needs in tribal communities affected by the wildfires.

Today’s declaration allows agencies to address service disruptions quickly and help health care providers serving individuals enrolled in Medicaid and Medicare in wildfire-impacted communities.

Some of the specific changes it authorizes:

People who have been displaced can receive home health services in alternative locations like temporary shelters, hotels and places other than their homes.
Individuals who have lost respiratory or other medication or medical supplies can get replacements much faster.
Hospitals can set up temporary or alternative care sites or locations to treat patients, including virtual options.
Care and safety come first and paperwork comes second. Providers and patients will have less paperwork because pre-authorization requirements for medicine or treatment can be paused.
The public health emergency declaration also helps older adults and people with disabilities maintain access to rehabilitation services, skilled nursing and assistance with medication, bathing, dressing and mobility as well as shopping, meal preparation and housekeeping.

In addition, the Department of Health can adjust requirements like facility inspections, credentialing and reporting timelines. This eases the administrative burden on health care providers in fire-affected areas, helping them maintain access while focusing on the people they serve.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 07/08/2026
Medical needs don’t stop when fires start. That’s why the governor’s declaration of a statewide wildfire emergency makes it easier for pharmacies to provide emergency supplies of prescription drugs and devices. If you need help, ask a pharmacist.
governor.wa.gov
Governor Ferguson declares statewide wildfire emergency, issues statewide burn ban | Governor Bob Ferguson
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Reposted by Washington State Department of Health
Washington Emergency Management Division @emd.wa.gov · 06/08/2026
Know anyone impacted by the historic wildfires? Please have them complete a damage assessment survey. More information here. mil.wa.gov/news/state-b... #wawildfire
mil.wa.gov
State begins damage assessments for historic wildfires
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 05/08/2026
August is National Immunization Awareness Month, an annual observance that highlights the importance of protecting people of all ages from vaccine-preventable diseases. We are recognizing the month by announcing Washington’s 2026 Immunization Champion Award winner. doh.wa.gov/newsroom/doh...
doh.wa.gov
DOH celebrates National Immunization Awareness Month, names 2026 Immunization Champion
For immediate release: August 5, 2026 (26-054) Contact: DOH Communications
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 05/08/2026
Do you work outside? Protect your skin like it’s your job! + Use protective clothing by wearing long sleeves and pants and a hat + Find shade and take water breaks + Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours
heyor.ca
Sunscreens and Sun Safety
This page will help you learn more about which sunscreens are the safest to use. Remember: the best sunscreen is the one you choose every day.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 05/08/2026
Small improvements in the air quality across the state, but levels still remain high. Reduce your risk by following these tips at doh.wa.gov/smoke-fires
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 05/08/2026
No drones in fire zones!
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 04/08/2026
Breathing wildfire smoke can cause serious health risks and worsen existing health issues, especially lung conditions. Smoke can be carried by the wind, impacting people hundreds, or even thousands, of miles away. In 2025, Washington had 68 large fires that burned about 255,000 acres. Learn more.
storymaps.arcgis.com
Wildfires in Washington, 2025
Wildfires and their smoke have big impacts on health. This is a summary of how fires affected Washington residents in 2025.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 04/08/2026
We can get through this together, WA!
Graphic with an illustration of Washington state and a wildfire. Text reads, "Recovering is hard. Be kind to yourself and others." Washington State Department of Health logo and doh.wa.gov/prepare-for-wildfires at the bottom.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 03/08/2026
Please seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms, such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, during wildfire smoke events and in the week after. wasmoke.blogspot.com
wasmoke.blogspot.com
Washington Smoke Blog
Welcome to the Washington Smoke blog, a partnership between state, county, and federal agencies, and Tribes. We coordinate to collectively share information for Washington communities affected by wil...
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Reposted by Washington State Department of Health
Washington Emergency Management Division @emd.wa.gov · 03/08/2026
You may have seen Evacuation levels listed are are curious what it means. Level 1 means be ready. Be alert. Level 2 means get set to leave at a moment’s notice. Level 3 means go. Leave now. Find more details in the video. youtu.be/BXim3du617g?...
youtu.be
Evacuation Tips in Washington state
YouTube video by Washington Emergency Management Division
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 02/08/2026
Lots happening here in WA. Stay safe out there. doh.wa.gov/emergencies/...
doh.wa.gov
Wildfires
Forest fires and wildfires threaten lives and destroy homes and natural resources. You can take action now that can help save lives and help prevent or reduce damage caused by wildfires.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 31/07/2026
A PDS (Particularly Dangerous Situation) Red Flag Warning is in effect for Saturday. Extreme conditions are forecast for the afternoon and evening with southwest winds of 20-30 MPH with gusts up to 50 MPH. Very rapid fire growth is possible with any new or existing wildfires.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 31/07/2026
Take a look in your fridge and on your shelves. Keep up to date with food recalls here in Washington state at doh.wa.gov/foodrecalls
doh.wa.gov
Food Recalls and Safety Alerts
Last Update: July 30, 2026 Recalled food products affecting Washington State are listed below by product name and date of recall. Recalls will be listed on this page for about a year. Learn more about...
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Reposted by Washington State Department of Health
Ecology Director Casey Sixkiller @caseysixkiller.bsky.social · 29/07/2026
In Washington, we are committed to protecting our drinking water from toxic PFAS. Nationally, the U.S. EPA is proposing to weaken PFAS standards. I joined @doh.wa.gov Secretary Worsham and State Board of Health Director Davis to call on EPA to protect clean water. ecology.wa.gov/about-us/who...
ecology.wa.gov
Joint statement on EPA PFAS rulemaking proposals
The U.S. EPA is proposing to weaken and delay standards for PFAS in drinking water. Washington State agencies oppose these changes.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 29/07/2026
🚨 SCAM ALERT: Callers are "spoofing" phone numbers, making it appear as though they are calling from a DOH phone number. They may falsely claim to be from DOH, say your medical information has been compromised, and ask you to verify personal information.
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 22/07/2026
Temps are running high today across Washington. Stay cool, hydrate, and check in on those who might be at higher risk.
static.klipy.com
Donald Duck's Desert Dehydration
ALT: Donald Duck's Desert Dehydration
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 22/07/2026
We have a food safety team that helps track food recalls and safety alerts here in Washington. Find the latest and subscribe today. doh.wa.gov/you-and-your-family/food-safety/recalls
doh.wa.gov
Food Recalls and Safety Alerts
Last Update: July 21, 2026 Recalled food products affecting Washington State are listed below by product name and date of recall. Recalls will be listed on this page for about a year. Learn more about...
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Washington State Department of Health @doh.wa.gov · 20/07/2026
Stay up to date on the latest. #cyclosporiasis
doh.wa.gov
2026 Cyclosporiasis Outbreak
Background Last Update: July 17, 2026
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