Three King County residents connected to international cruise ship in public health monitoring for hantavirus

May 12, 2026.Reading time 4 minutes.

Ilustración de un crucero navegando frente a un paisaje montañoso.

Public Health – Seattle & King County has been notified about three King County residents who were potentially exposed to hantavirus linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship. All three are asymptomatic and monitoring for symptoms, in coordination with public health officials. There are no cases of hantavirus in King County at this time.

Distinguished community public health leader is King County’s new Health Officer

May 22, 2025.Reading time 4 minutes.

Health Officer Dr. Sandra Valenciano wearing glasses and a red jacket.

Public Health – Seattle & King County is delighted to welcome Dr. Sandra J. Valenciano, a public health leader with both local and national experience in improving community health, as King County’s new Health Officer. Public Health Director Dr. Faisal Khan appointed Dr. Valenciano to serve as the department’s primary medical expert, provide leadership on […]

COVID-19 is rising locally: A Q&A with Dr. Chow on practical steps

July 10, 2024.Reading time 9 minutes.

You’ve probably heard that more folks are sick with COVID. Our communicable disease expert, Dr. Eric Chow, explains what we’re seeing in King County, why he’s concerned about increases in long COVID, and what “up-to-date” on vaccination means.

Possible measles exposure at multiple locations in King County

July 3, 2024.Reading time 8 minutes.

Public Health – Seattle & King County is investigating a confirmed measles case in an adult with recent international travel. The individual was at multiple locations in Bellevue, Seattle, and Woodinville while infectious. Anyone at certain locations during the time span when the individual was there may have been exposed to measles.

Potential exposure to measles from traveler at airport

May 31, 2024.Reading time 8 minutes.

Public Health – Seattle & King County was notified of a confirmed measles case in an adult with possible exposures in Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) on May 10 and May 11.

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.