What’s the risk of hantavirus in King County?

May 8, 2026.Reading time 11 minutes.

Two deer mice with brown fur and white bellies

Hantavirus is in the news with the cruise ship outbreak, but this type of hantavirus is a low risk for people in King County. A public health veterinarian explains why, and also gives advice based on the few cases of hantavirus ever found in the King County.

Drowning Prevention at Home: Staying Safe in Bathtubs and Hot Tubs

May 4, 2026.Reading time 4 minutes.

A clean, well‑lit bathroom with a white claw‑foot bathtub, blue shower curtain, wooden vanity with a sink, and neatly hung pink towels beneath a window.

Nearly half of drowning deaths in King County happen at home, not in lakes or rivers. Learn how simple habits can make baths and hot tubs safer for everyone.

Alongside people during vital life moments: Portraits of Public Health

April 23, 2026.Reading time 4 minutes.

A smiling woman with black hair and brown skin, wearing a tan blazer and hoop earrings, with a orange background.

Birth and death are some of life’s most meaningful and complex moments, and for nearly two decades in Public Health – Seattle & King County’s Vital Records, Robbie has been supporting community members through the process of gathering and filing records for these momentous events.

Local survey highlights how syringe service sites provide low-barrier entry point to connect people to services

April 16, 2026.Reading time 9 minutes.

A photo of a wall with posters promoting treatment options.

Every two years, we conduct a survey of syringe service program clients as part of a statewide survey in partnership with University of Washington’s Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute (ADAI). The aim is to understand the needs of our clients and provide data to inform effective services to improve the health of people who use drugs.

Do you know me? Help identify an unknown man found deceased near Medina

April 15, 2026.Reading time 7 minutes.

Pencil sketch showing face of young man with light skin, long hair and a jacket.

The King County Medical Examiner’s Office is asking for the public’s help to identify a man found deceased near Medina, under the SR 520 bridge. The Medical Examiner’s Office is releasing a forensic sketch and information related to the case with the goal of bringing answers to this man’s identity.

Measles case identified in a King County infant

April 10, 2026.Reading time 6 minutes.

Public Health – Seattle & King County is informing the community of a confirmed measles case in a King County infant who may have exposed others to the measles virus.