How we can protect the whole community as the mask directive ends

June 30, 2021.Reading time 11 minutes.

A woman working at a cash register is wearing a mask. She places clothing in a bag as a female customer stands waiting.

The mask directive has been lifted now that over 70% of King County residents are fully vaccinated. But not everyone has been able to get vaccinated yet, so we need to be thoughtful towards those who still depend on others to help protect them.

Protecting unvaccinated children as COVID-19 restrictions are lifted

June 22, 2021.Reading time 9 minutes.

Washington state is about to reopen with 70% of people 16 and older initiating the vaccine series. For families and caregivers with children under the age of 12 who are not yet eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, re-opening may cause concern and raise a lot of questions on how best to protect our kids who are still at risk of getting COVID-19.

Here are ways you can continue to keep children under the age of 12 safe.

Watching out for child and elder maltreatment during the coronavirus pandemic

October 29, 2020.Reading time 5 minutes.

Earlier this week, Public Health released a report focused on domestic violence patterns. Similarly, social isolation, grief, and stress resulting from efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19, combined with decreased access to services outside the home, may be increasing risk of abuse and neglect among children and vulnerable adults including elders.

Opportunity for Youth to Get Involved In the Local Anti-trafficking Movement

July 20, 2020.Reading time 2 minutes.

There is a definite connection between the commercial sexual exploitation (CSE) of children and the juvenile justice system. Although exact numbers don’t currently exist, studies show that most victims of commercial sexual exploitation of children in King County have also been involved in the legal system.

The same systemic issues, racial inequity, and income inequality that make youth vulnerable to becoming involved in the legal system also make youth targets for perpetrators of CSE.

Face Coverings and Children

June 25, 2020.Reading time 6 minutes.

Beginning Friday, June 26, Washington State will require face coverings including children ages 5 and over and strongly encouraged for ages 2-4. Here are some answers to questions that parents and caregivers may have about face coverings and children.

Vaccinations keep your child safe during and after COVID-19

May 27, 2020.Reading time 7 minutes.

For parents and caregivers, it is important to continue to bring children in for their wellness check-ups with their doctor. Wellness check-ups allow your child’s doctor to assess your child’s growth, nutrition, and development. Another important part of wellness check-ups are vaccines. Vaccinations help keep children safe.