Provider Resources WA

Provider Alert: Updated Guidance for Influenza Testing and Subtyping

Situation Summary Emergency Department visits for influenza are currently rising in Washington, indicating an early start to the 2026-2027 influenza season. Be alert for patients with seasonal as well as novel influenza viruses such as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Association of Public Health Laboratories … Provider Alert: Updated Guidance for Influenza Testing and Subtyping

06/15/26 Health Advisory: Infant Botulism Associated with Nara Organics Infant Formula

Infant sleeping on adult's chest.

Summary Actions requested Background Infant botulism is a rare illness where spores of Clostridium botulinum bacteria colonize and grow in an infant’s large intestine. These bacteria release a neurotoxin that causes symptoms like constipation, weakness (especially in sucking, crying, and swallowing), and loss of muscle tone. If untreated, the condition can lead to paralysis, trouble breathing, and … 06/15/26 Health Advisory: Infant Botulism Associated with Nara Organics Infant Formula

05/21/26 Health Advisory: Ebola Outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda

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Situation summary The Ministry of Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) confirmed an outbreak of Ebola disease in Ituri Province in northeastern DRC, caused by the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola . In neighboring Uganda, health authorities confirmed 2 cases of Ebola disease in people who had traveled from DRC. A case of Ebola … 05/21/26 Health Advisory: Ebola Outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda

04/20/26 Provider Alert: Measles continues to spread in Washington; Prepare now

Baby with measles

Current Situation As of April 15, 2026, a total of 37 cases of measles have been identified in Washington state this year. WA DOH is aware of at least 9 separate introductions of measles into the state since January 1, 2026, all associated with domestic or international travel. Many of these cases have led to … 04/20/26 Provider Alert: Measles continues to spread in Washington; Prepare now

04/17/26 Health Advisory: Be alert for medetomidine overdose and withdrawal in people who use fentanyl

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently notified public health professionals, clinicians, laboratorians, and people at risk for overdose about the presence of medetomidine in the illegal drug supply, particularly in substances sold as fentanyl. Medetomidine is also colloquially called rhino tranq, mede, or dex. Its use can lead to overdose and a serious withdrawal … 04/17/26 Health Advisory: Be alert for medetomidine overdose and withdrawal in people who use fentanyl

03/16/26 Provider Alert: respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) season has been extended through April 30, 2026

Infant sleeping on adult's chest.

The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) season has been extended through April 30, 2026. Please continue to administer nirsevimab or clesrovimab to all eligible patients through April 30th. Current Situation RSV activity in Washington began later than usual this season, with emergency department visits in the state reaching the activity threshold in December 2025, compared to … 03/16/26 Provider Alert: respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) season has been extended through April 30, 2026

03/09/26 Measles remains a growing concern in Washington

Measles remains a growing concern in Washington as U.S. surpasses 1,100 cases in 2026. MMR vaccine remains the most effective tool to prevent further spread OLYMPIA – Measles continues to pose a serious public health concern in Washington and across the country. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed 26 measles cases across four counties this year, marking … 03/09/26 Measles remains a growing concern in Washington

Washington state expands same-day support for opioid use disorder

Telebupe Hotline brings rapid, low-barrier care to people statewide   Summary Background People across Washington now have an easier way to get help for opioid use disorder. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is partnering with the University of Washington (UW) to expand the Washington Telebuprenorphine (Telebupe) Hotline statewide. Washington residents can now access same-day medical treatment via phone or video no matter where they live in the state by … Washington state expands same-day support for opioid use disorder

The West Coast Health Alliance continues to recommend vaccination in alignment with the American Academy of Pediatrics Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule

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Summary The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) continues to recommend the American Academy Pediatrics (AAP) Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule. Background On January 5, 2026, the Acting Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention signed a decision memorandum to revise the Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule and significantly reduce the number of vaccinations routinely … The West Coast Health Alliance continues to recommend vaccination in alignment with the American Academy of Pediatrics Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule

West Coast Health Alliance, WA DOH, and Leading National Medical Organizations Continue to Recommend Hepatitis B Vaccination for Newborns

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WCHA disagrees with CDC’s Advisory Committee’s change to decades-long vaccine recommendation that has reduced pediatric hepatitis B infections by 99 percent. The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) strongly supports that hepatitis B vaccination continue to be routinely offered to all newborns, with the first dose of the vaccine given within 24 hours of birth for … West Coast Health Alliance, WA DOH, and Leading National Medical Organizations Continue to Recommend Hepatitis B Vaccination for Newborns