Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Infectious Disease Update topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
DOH regional medical officer reports low seasonal respiratory activity, flags single measles close contact
Summary
Bill Duber, Regional Medical Officer at the Washington Department of Health, told the Board of Health that influenza, RSV and COVID levels are low in the county, noted two pertussis cases, and said investigators are following a potential measles close contact in Clallam County.
Dr. Bill Duber, Regional Medical Officer for Northwest Washington at the Washington State Department of Health, updated the Board of Health on current infectious-disease activity: seasonal respiratory viruses are at low levels; two locally reported pertussis cases were noted; and state investigators were following up on a potential measles close contact in Clallam County. He also briefly reviewed statewide opioid mortality trends and highly pathogenic avian influenza surveillance.
Duber said influenza, respiratory syncytial virus and COVID-19 are “very low at the moment,” consistent with seasonal patterns. He reminded the board that measles is highly contagious and that vaccination remains the best prevention; the department received notice about a measles case in the state and was investigating a potential close contact located in Clallam County, although his remarks said suspicion for onward transmission was “very low.”
He cited CDC reporting that statewide opioid overdose deaths declined in 2024 compared with 2023 but recommended caution because late-2024 data showed a subsequent increase. Duber also reported that highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) activity is limited locally but that migration season could change that picture.
The board asked no follow-up questions beyond brief clarifying remarks. Duber concluded by thanking the board and noting he was filling in for the county’s regular health officer.
