Making safer choices while back-to-school shopping

August 29, 2023.Reading time 4 minutes.

School supplies can have an impact on the health and safety of students in the classroom. Some common supplies have chemicals that can trigger asthma and other allergies. With that in mind, here are our recommendations for safer choices.

How to prepare for an early and long 2023 wildfire season in King County

June 15, 2023.Reading time 11 minutes.

This year, wildfire smoke is forecast to start early in King County and last into the fall. Record-setting forest fires have already darkened skies in Canada and the eastern U.S., and our region is set to be next. By preparing now, you can help to protect your and your family’s lungs, heart, and health from smoke.

Local health officers and health care leaders recommend wearing masks indoors

December 9, 2022.Reading time 7 minutes.

Public Health – Seattle & King Health Officer Dr. Jeff Duchin joins other local health officers and health care leaders in recommending masking in indoor public spaces and other prevention measures given the high level of respiratory viruses circulating and stress on hospitals.

Tri-demic? Time to increase protections against surging respiratory viruses

November 8, 2022.Reading time 16 minutes.

Young girl with thermometer in her mouth. Young girl covering her cough. Adult man blowing his nose.

We’ve been hearing talk of a potential triple threat of viruses or a “tri-demic” this winter – a rise in multiple types of respiratory viruses. We sat down with Dr. Eric Chow, who leads our Communicable Disease and Epidemiology Section, to learn more about what’s happening and what we can do to stay safer.

Be ready for smoky days: Make a 1-minute box fan filter

August 4, 2022.Reading time 7 minutes.

Woman in apron waving and holding a box fan. Text: Public Health Crafter's Corner: DIY Air Filter

A simple box fan filter can keep your indoor air cleaner on days when there’s wildfire smoke outside. It’s quick and easy to do, and much cheaper than an air purifier.

How childcare and early learning programs are taking simple steps to improve indoor air quality: A closer look at how it works

June 23, 2022.Reading time 5 minutes.

Improving indoor air quality is one of the most important and long-lasting approaches to reducing the spread of COVID-19. With the emergence of lower-cost options that can make a difference, Public Health has been working alongside child care providers to reduce the virus’ spread and to promote other health benefits by improving indoor air quality.