Public Health investigates rare bacterial infection associated with raw seafood

November 17, 2016.Reading time less than 1 minute.

After a King County woman was diagnosed with a rare and sometimes fatal bacterial infection, Vibrio vulnificus, public health officials are investigating the possibility that the bacteria came from tilapia fish purchased locally. Public Health cautions anyone who has come into contact with raw fish to seek medical care if they develop symptoms of infection. […]

Why health care providers & public health professionals say vaccines are not the cause of recent acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) cases

November 7, 2016.Reading time 4 minutes.

By Dr. Jeff Duchin, Health Officer Recent cases of acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) locally and across the US have parents, health care providers and public health professionals deeply concerned and looking hard for the cause, which remains unknown. Based on what we do know about causes of AFM, the leading suspect is infection with a […]

Winter is coming. Let’s talk flu vaccine.

November 3, 2016.Reading time 7 minutes.

November 3, 2016 It’s that time of year. The kids have been in school for a while and the germs are circulating. We sat down with Libby Page from our Immunizations Program to learn what our options are for flu vaccine this season. Why is it important to get vaccinated now? LP: Autumn is often the time […]

Dr. Duchin: What you should know about acute flaccid myelitis (AFM)

November 1, 2016.Reading time 7 minutes.

Recent news reports of acute flaccid myelitis in Washington state (and nationally) have caught the attention of worried parents. Dr. Jeff Duchin, Health Officer at Public Health – Seattle & King County, weighs in on the risk and clarifies some of the confusing details. Q: What is acute flaccid myelitis (AFM)? A: AFM is a rare […]

TB evaluation at Renton High School

October 31, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

Public Health – Seattle & King County is following up on a person at Renton High School who was diagnosed with active tuberculosis (TB). Public Health is working with Renton School District officials to define the extent of any potential TB exposures, conduct screenings for those exposed, and provide guidance and information to Renton High School community […]

Syphilis rising: Public Health recommends more syphilis testing

October 31, 2016.Reading time 6 minutes.

Public Health has documented a significant increase in syphilis cases in King County. We sat down with Dr. Lindley Barbee, the Medical Director of the Public Health – Seattle & King County STD Clinic to understand the latest figures and how to prevent the spread of this disease. The HIV/STD program has documented an increase […]