How I learned to harvest shellfish (starting with checking the shellfish safety map!)

June 11, 2024.Reading time 8 minutes.

A person’s legs in waterproof boots in shallow water at a rocky beach

While recreational shellfish harvesting is a year-round activity, it is especially popular in the summer when warmer weather and mid-day low tides make it easier. However, warmer temperatures can also create conditions for marine (saltwater) biotoxins. Learn what you can do to reduce your risk.

How local healthcare systems can respond to climate change

April 24, 2024.Reading time 5 minutes.

The healthcare sector is a significant contributor to climate change, producing around 10% of total carbon emissions. Climate change strains healthcare systems, increasing visits and deaths. It’s crucial for healthcare to reduce emissions, waste, and improve energy efficiency while adapting to climate change. A new playbook supports hospitals and clinics in this effort, offering practical guidance and support.

New data dashboards track the impact of climate change on health

January 25, 2024.Reading time 10 minutes.

An image of a graph with icons in front of it representing heat, cold, asthma, allergies, bacteria and disease-carrying insects. Text over the graph says "climate and health data dashboards."

Climate change is impacting the health of King County residents. Our new data dashboards provide a look at some of these impacts.

New closure and reopening protocols at King County’s lake beaches will better protect public health

May 16, 2023.Reading time 7 minutes.

Environmental scientists collect water samples each week from all King County lake beaches and test them for bacteria. Our scientists look through the data for potential public health risks. Depending on the results, we close or open beaches to keep people safe. This year, we’re changing how we make beach closure and reopen decisions. These changes are in line with the latest science.

We’re ready for warmer weather – but our bodies might not be

May 11, 2023.Reading time 6 minutes.

As we look forward to temperatures in the mid-80s and low 90s this weekend, the sudden change from cooler weather can create health risks for many people.

Help reduce the spread of COVID-19 by improving indoor air this fall and winter

December 13, 2022.Reading time 11 minutes.

By now you may have heard that we’re experiencing high cases of flu and RSV (a respiratory disease) (in-language resources available) this fall, with young children being hospitalized. With cold weather, we spend more time inside. This increases the potential for another surge of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in the coming months.

Diseases like RSV, the flu, and COVID-19 are airborne and spread easily indoors. With that in mind, it’s important to pay attention to indoor air quality.