Planning ahead: Make back-to-school vaccination appointments now

August 17, 2026.Reading time 5 minutes.

School’s about more than math quizzes and book reports. It’s where kids go to play, grow, and build community. But where kids thrive, so do germs. Enter: vaccinations! Vaccinations are the body’s practice test for diseases like measles and whooping cough. That way, if the real thing shows up, kids’ immune systems know exactly what to do.

Never touch a bat: What you need to know about bats and rabies

July 30, 2026.Reading time 9 minutes.

Any person or animal that touched or had contact with the bat or its saliva could be at risk of getting rabies. If you see a bat, don’t touch it! Bats lying on the ground, flying during daytime, making a lot of noise, or otherwise acting sick are more likely to have rabies.

Rabid bat found in Renton at Gene Coulon Park

July 29, 2026.Reading time 7 minutes.

Anyone who might have had physical contact with this bat (even if not bitten) could be at risk and should seek medical evaluation immediately or call Public Health to determine if rabies preventative treatment is necessary.

Rabid bat found in Seattle near the University of Washington

July 17, 2026.Reading time 6 minutes.

A rabid bat was found in Seattle on July 15, 2026, on the sidewalk on University Way Northeast, between NE 41st and NE 42nd streets. This is near Parrington Lawn, on the University of Washington campus, and is a busy area with many businesses. Anyone who might have had physical contact with this bat (even if not bitten) could be at risk and should seek medical evaluation immediately or call Public Health at 206-296-4774 to determine if rabies preventative treatment is necessary.

Explosive diarrhea sounds…rough. Any rumbling in King County?

July 16, 2026.Reading time 8 minutes.

Una persona se agarra el estómago. Al fondo se ven un inodoro y un azulejo verde.

A national outbreak of Cyclospora—more commonly known by its main symptom, explosive diarrhea–continues to grow, but here in King County, we have not seen any unexpected increases in cyclosporiasis (the disease caused by Cyclospora) so far. We talked with Ann Shen, the lead for foodborne and enteric disease investigations for Public Health – Seattle & King County, about the local situation.

Join the King County Board of Health

June 22, 2026.Reading time 7 minutes.

A series of three photographs including a woman with a medical mask and bandaid on her arm, a family of two parents and a child, and a young man.

The King County Board of Health is recruiting for a public health provider.

Applications to join the Board are welcome from King County residents who share a commitment to public health principles and addressing racism as a public health crisis. The Board is currently considering applications for one vacant position to join in 2027. This vacancy is for the public health, facilities and providers alternate seat.