Disease Prevention

The flu virus claimed the life of one Whitman County resident - Whitman County's first flu-related death this season. As flu cases surge, we encourage the public to take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from the flu. It is not too late to get vaccinated.

The U.S. is experiencing it's most intense flu season in the last 15 years, with flu deaths surpassing COVID-19 the first time since the pandemic began in 2019.

Recalled Products:

• SeaBear Smoked Salmon Chowder
• Seabear Alehouse Clam Chowder

Please see attached link for full list of recalled foods.

Recommendations:

• Do not buy, eat, sell, or serve recalled chowder products because they may contain Clostridium botulinum.
• Consumers who have purchased SeaBear's Chowders should contact SeaBear's customer service team at 1-800-645-3474 for a full refund.

HEALTH ADVISORY: Measles Outbreak Expanding in the United States with 2 Reported Deaths

SUMMARY: As of March 7, 2025, Texas and New Mexico have reported 208 confirmed cases associated with a measles outbreak (198 in Texas and 10 in New Mexico). As part of this outbreak, two deaths have been reported: one in Texas and one in New Mexico. More cases are expected as this outbreak continues to expand rapidly.

Refer to the attached link for more information from CDC on this expanding outbreak.

HEALTH ADVISORY: Measles Case Confirmed in Seattle Area Infant with Public Exposures

SUMMARY: Public Health Seattle King County has identified one confirmed case of measles (rubeola) in an infant who was exposed to the measles virus while traveling outside of the United States. Measles is a highly contagious and potentially severe disease that causes fever, rash, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes.

Refer to the attached link for more information on dates and times of possible exposure to measles.

HEALTH ADVISORY: Whitman County Public Health (WCPH) confirms first Hantavirus reported death in Whitman County

SUMMARY: Whitman County Public Health (WCPH) recently confirmed that a county resident dies from Hantavirus. WCPH received the positive lab result on February 16, 2025. The individual had a known local exposure to rodents before their illness. This is the first confirmed case of Hantavirus in Whitman County and the first reported case in Washington State this year. Historically, Washington State has between 1 and 5 confirmed Hantavirus cases each year.

Whitman County Public Health (WCPH) is investigating a pertussis outbreak within Whitman County. There are 88 pertussis cases identified as of 12/13/2024.

Recalled Products:

• Ground Cinnamon Products

Please see attached link for full list of recalled foods.

Recommendations:

• Do not buy, eat, sell, or serve recalled ground cinnamon products because they may contain lead
• Parents and caregivers of children who may have eaten recalled products should contact the child’s healthcare provider about getting a blood test for lead and further evaluation