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News Release

OHA Seeks Applicants For The Oversight And Accountability Council - 12/10/25

December 10, 2025

Media Contact: Kim Lippert, Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-323-3831

OHA seeks applicants for the Oversight and Accountability Council

SALEM, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority is seeking applicants to serve on the Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC), a Council established by Ballot Measure 110 in 2020. The OAC is a public body of the state of Oregon that advises the Oregon Health Authority on the grant program described in ORS 430.389

Members of the OAC serve four-year terms. Members may be eligible for a stipend to compensate them for their time engaged official duties of the OAC. OHA is seeking new members in the categories described below:

  • (a)(G) An academic researcher specializing in drug use or drug policy

To apply, submit an application here by 11:59 p.m., Jan. 16, 2025.

A team at OHA will review applications and inform applicants of appointments by Feb. 1, 2026.

For questions or more information, email OHA.Measure110@oha.oregon.gov ,or contact Karli Moon at Karli.moon@oha.oregon.gov or 971-240-8690.

# # #

OHA Seeks Applicants For The Oversight And Accountability Council - 12/10/25

December 10, 2025

Media Contact: Kim Lippert, Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-323-3831

OHA seeks applicants for the Oversight and Accountability Council

SALEM, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority is seeking applicants to serve on the Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC), a Council established by Ballot Measure 110 in 2020. The OAC is a public body of the state of Oregon that advises the Oregon Health Authority on the grant program described in ORS 430.389

Members of the OAC serve four-year terms. Members may be eligible for a stipend to compensate them for their time engaged official duties of the OAC. OHA is seeking new members in the categories described below:

  • (a)(G) An academic researcher specializing in drug use or drug policy

To apply, submit an application here by 11:59 p.m., Jan. 16, 2025.

A team at OHA will review applications and inform applicants of appointments by Feb. 1, 2026.

For questions or more information, email OHA.Measure110@oha.oregon.gov ,or contact Karli Moon at Karli.moon@oha.oregon.gov or 971-240-8690.

# # #

Health Officials Urge Pertussis Vaccination, Safety Measures To Protect Babies; Case Count Surpasses 75-year Record - 12/10/25

December 10, 2025  

 

OHA releases new data showing Oregon's maternal pertussis vaccination rate too low, especially in rural counties

  • What you need to know: 
    • Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a bacterial infection that spreads easily through droplets when someone coughs or sneezes.
    • Pertussis can cause severe disease in people of all ages, but babies are most at risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death from infection.
    • Vaccination is important for people of all ages, and it's the best way to prevent severe disease and hospitalization. 

PORTLAND, Ore - Pertussis cases in Oregon have reached an all-time high, prompting state officials to urge people to make sure they and their families are up to date on vaccinations—especially those who are pregnant or spend time with babies—and take steps to reduce spread. 

In 2025, as of today—Dec. 10—Oregon Health Authority has received a record-high 1,475 reported cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, breaking the state's all-time annual record of 1,420, set in 1950. The current outbreak began in spring 2024, when Oregon recorded 1,252 pertussis cases by year's end. Other U.S. states have reported similar caseload spikes.

Pertussis can cause severe disease in people of all ages, but babies are most at risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death from infection. To reduce that risk, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends every pregnant person receive a single dose of Tdap vaccine during their third trimester (weeks 27-36) to protect their newborn from pertussis. That's because babies' immune systems are too weak to protect against infection until they get vaccinated at 2 months old.

Spouses, partners, grandparents and any adult routinely in the baby's life should also consider receiving a Tdap dose at least two weeks before the baby is born.

However, vaccination is important for people of all ages, and it's the best way to prevent severe disease and hospitalization. In addition to pregnant people, pertussis vaccination is recommended for infants and children starting at 2 months through 4 to 6 years old, adolescents at age 11 or 12, and any adult who has not previously been vaccinated.

“I worry people may not fully appreciate the risk pertussis poses as case counts are rising, especially for babies and older adults," said Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA's Public Health Division. “One of the most important things someone can do to protect their newborn is to get the Tdap vaccine during pregnancy. Unfortunately, we've seen a statewide decline in maternal Tdap vaccination rates in Oregon, which is a dangerous trend."

VIDEO: Videos of Dr. Chiou discussing Oregon's historic pertussis spread and its impact are available at the top of OHA's Media Resources page.

The numbers

In 2025, 87 cases of infant pertussis (children younger than 12 months)--22 of whom were hospitalized—have been reported in Oregon so far. One infant died in Oregon earlier this year. It is the only death from pertussis reported in Oregon during 2025.

OHA's new Pregnancy Immunization Data dashboard shows only 69% of pregnant people received Tdap vaccination in 2024, down from 72% in 2020.

Maternal Tdap vaccination rates also vary widely from county to county, with rates as low as 17% and as high as 82%. The lowest rates are largely in rural counties, where it's often harder to find vaccinations, and where vaccine hesitancy rates are also higher.

Pertussis outbreaks occur regionally about every three to five years and do not necessarily follow seasonal patterns. Because of widespread masking and social distancing during the pandemic, Oregon saw only three reported cases of pertussis in 2021, followed by 17 in 2022 and 40 in 2023. Health officials attribute the skyrocketing cases since then to a return to pre-pandemic norms that coincides with waning immunity and decreased vaccination rates. 

Why the vaccine matters

Studies show Tdap vaccination during pregnancy is highly effective in preventing pertussis infection and hospitalization. Long-term protection from the pertussis vaccine wanes over time, however, which can create confusion about the vaccine.

“I hear the confusion in my community about pertussis vaccination," said Benton County Health Officer Carolina Amador, M.D., MPH. “When we use the word 'booster,' people may think the vaccine isn't very effective because protection fades, so they may not want to bother. At the same time, we strongly recommend it for certain people, such as children and pregnant people, because in the short term it does a great job protecting the most vulnerable among us."

The disease

The only way a baby will become infected with pertussis is if they are exposed to someone with pertussis, a bacterial infection that spreads easily through droplets when someone coughs or sneezes.

But pertussis often goes undiagnosed. The illness is tricky to diagnose because not everyone with pertussis will have the trademark “whooping" sound when coughing. For some, pertussis can be severe and result in a trip to the hospital, while others may experience mild symptoms and may not necessarily seek medical care while they still spread disease.

Jennifer Gibbons, N.D., is a naturopathic pediatrician in Portland whose practice attracts many parents who are vaccine hesitant.

“When parents of my little patients also happen to be pregnant, they often tell me their own OBGYN has recommended the Tdap vaccine, and they will ask me, 'But do you think it's right for me?' The answer is always yes," she said. 

“I can say, 'I've seen whooping cough, and it's truly awful for infants,'" Gibbons added. “Then I'll explain how the vaccine merely adds to the suite of protective antibodies that the mother is already providing the baby through the placenta. I'm always exploring ways to change my language with patients to see if I can get them to look at it differently."

Click here to learn more about pertussis in Oregon.

###

Health Officials Urge Pertussis Vaccination, Safety Measures To Protect Babies; Case Count Surpasses 75-year Record - 12/10/25

December 10, 2025  

 

OHA releases new data showing Oregon's maternal pertussis vaccination rate too low, especially in rural counties

  • What you need to know: 
    • Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a bacterial infection that spreads easily through droplets when someone coughs or sneezes.
    • Pertussis can cause severe disease in people of all ages, but babies are most at risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death from infection.
    • Vaccination is important for people of all ages, and it's the best way to prevent severe disease and hospitalization. 

PORTLAND, Ore - Pertussis cases in Oregon have reached an all-time high, prompting state officials to urge people to make sure they and their families are up to date on vaccinations—especially those who are pregnant or spend time with babies—and take steps to reduce spread. 

In 2025, as of today—Dec. 10—Oregon Health Authority has received a record-high 1,475 reported cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, breaking the state's all-time annual record of 1,420, set in 1950. The current outbreak began in spring 2024, when Oregon recorded 1,252 pertussis cases by year's end. Other U.S. states have reported similar caseload spikes.

Pertussis can cause severe disease in people of all ages, but babies are most at risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death from infection. To reduce that risk, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends every pregnant person receive a single dose of Tdap vaccine during their third trimester (weeks 27-36) to protect their newborn from pertussis. That's because babies' immune systems are too weak to protect against infection until they get vaccinated at 2 months old.

Spouses, partners, grandparents and any adult routinely in the baby's life should also consider receiving a Tdap dose at least two weeks before the baby is born.

However, vaccination is important for people of all ages, and it's the best way to prevent severe disease and hospitalization. In addition to pregnant people, pertussis vaccination is recommended for infants and children starting at 2 months through 4 to 6 years old, adolescents at age 11 or 12, and any adult who has not previously been vaccinated.

“I worry people may not fully appreciate the risk pertussis poses as case counts are rising, especially for babies and older adults," said Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA's Public Health Division. “One of the most important things someone can do to protect their newborn is to get the Tdap vaccine during pregnancy. Unfortunately, we've seen a statewide decline in maternal Tdap vaccination rates in Oregon, which is a dangerous trend."

VIDEO: Videos of Dr. Chiou discussing Oregon's historic pertussis spread and its impact are available at the top of OHA's Media Resources page.

The numbers

In 2025, 87 cases of infant pertussis (children younger than 12 months)--22 of whom were hospitalized—have been reported in Oregon so far. One infant died in Oregon earlier this year. It is the only death from pertussis reported in Oregon during 2025.

OHA's new Pregnancy Immunization Data dashboard shows only 69% of pregnant people received Tdap vaccination in 2024, down from 72% in 2020.

Maternal Tdap vaccination rates also vary widely from county to county, with rates as low as 17% and as high as 82%. The lowest rates are largely in rural counties, where it's often harder to find vaccinations, and where vaccine hesitancy rates are also higher.

Pertussis outbreaks occur regionally about every three to five years and do not necessarily follow seasonal patterns. Because of widespread masking and social distancing during the pandemic, Oregon saw only three reported cases of pertussis in 2021, followed by 17 in 2022 and 40 in 2023. Health officials attribute the skyrocketing cases since then to a return to pre-pandemic norms that coincides with waning immunity and decreased vaccination rates. 

Why the vaccine matters

Studies show Tdap vaccination during pregnancy is highly effective in preventing pertussis infection and hospitalization. Long-term protection from the pertussis vaccine wanes over time, however, which can create confusion about the vaccine.

“I hear the confusion in my community about pertussis vaccination," said Benton County Health Officer Carolina Amador, M.D., MPH. “When we use the word 'booster,' people may think the vaccine isn't very effective because protection fades, so they may not want to bother. At the same time, we strongly recommend it for certain people, such as children and pregnant people, because in the short term it does a great job protecting the most vulnerable among us."

The disease

The only way a baby will become infected with pertussis is if they are exposed to someone with pertussis, a bacterial infection that spreads easily through droplets when someone coughs or sneezes.

But pertussis often goes undiagnosed. The illness is tricky to diagnose because not everyone with pertussis will have the trademark “whooping" sound when coughing. For some, pertussis can be severe and result in a trip to the hospital, while others may experience mild symptoms and may not necessarily seek medical care while they still spread disease.

Jennifer Gibbons, N.D., is a naturopathic pediatrician in Portland whose practice attracts many parents who are vaccine hesitant.

“When parents of my little patients also happen to be pregnant, they often tell me their own OBGYN has recommended the Tdap vaccine, and they will ask me, 'But do you think it's right for me?' The answer is always yes," she said. 

“I can say, 'I've seen whooping cough, and it's truly awful for infants,'" Gibbons added. “Then I'll explain how the vaccine merely adds to the suite of protective antibodies that the mother is already providing the baby through the placenta. I'm always exploring ways to change my language with patients to see if I can get them to look at it differently."

Click here to learn more about pertussis in Oregon.

###

West Coast Health Alliance, OHA, Leading National Medical Organizations Continue To Recommend Hepatitis B Vaccination For Newborns - 12/05/25

December 5, 2025 

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov  

West Coast Health Alliance, OHA, leading national medical organizations continue to recommend hepatitis B vaccination for newborns

WCHA disagrees with CDC’s Advisory Committee’s change to decades-long vaccine recommendation that has reduced pediatric Hepatitis B infections by 99 percent 

  • What you need to know: Hepatitis B is a highly infectious virus that attacks the liver and can cause serious illness and death. The hepatitis B vaccination is an effective way to prevent infection and its complications. New ACIP recommendations could lead to more children and adults getting liver disease and liver cancer.

PORTLAND, Ore.—The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) strongly supports that hepatitis B vaccination continue to be routinely offered to all newborns, with the first dose of the vaccine given within 24 hours of birth for newborns weighing at least 2,000 grams (4 pounds, 7 ounces), followed by completion of the vaccine series. This recommendation aligns with trusted national medical organizations including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America.  

ACIP’s change to hepatitis B immunization lacks credible evidence

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has voted to end the universal recommendation for hepatitis B vaccination for all infants at birth—a strategy that has reduced pediatric hepatitis B infections in the United States by 99 percent. The ACIP also voted that parents should consult their provider regarding blood tests following each dose of the vaccine series. There was no credible evidence presented to support either of these changes. Delaying the birth dose of hepatitis B vaccine and using blood tests to guide vaccination will lead to more children and adults developing preventable liver disease and liver cancer with no evidence of a safety benefit.

A review by the Vaccine Integrity Project found that the vaccine is safe regardless of when it is given, and there are no safety benefits to delaying the first dose. Delaying the first dose increases the risk of infection and jeopardizes completion of the full vaccine series, which is required for long-lasting protection. Many with chronic hepatitis B do not know they are infected, and infants may unknowingly be infected by household and other contacts following birth. The birth dose acts as a critical safety net to protect newborns from infection. It is not known for how long and how strongly children are protected against hepatitis B infection if they don't receive a complete vaccine series. The unproven recommendation to obtain blood tests to guide the number of hepatitis B shots will subject infants to painful and unnecessary blood draws, increase health care costs, delay immunization, and risks decreased protection against infection. Completion of the vaccine series has been shown to offer the best protection. 

Importance of the hepatitis B “birth dose” vaccine

Hepatitis B is a highly infectious virus that attacks the liver and can cause chronic liver disease, liver cancer, liver failure, and death. It spreads easily — even without visible blood or body fluids and can survive on surfaces for up to seven days. Before the United States adopted a recommendation for universal infant hepatitis B vaccination in 1991, thousands of children were infected each year — both at birth and during childhood. Infants and young children are especially vulnerable: up to 90 percent of infants infected at birth develop chronic infection and 25 percent of infected children die prematurely from hepatitis-related disease.

The hepatitis B vaccine is effective, well tolerated, and decades of global data support its safety. It should continue to be offered to all parents at birth. Universal vaccination of newborns within 24 hours of birth, followed by completion of the vaccination series, is essential to protecting infants and young children, who are at greatest risk from complications from hepatitis B.

“The birth of a child is a precious occasion that should be the start of many years of happiness for a family,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA. “That happiness should not be marred by an increased risk of a preventable hepatitis B infection. Years of scientific evidence supports hepatitis B vaccination for newborns within 24 hours of birth, which can prevent serious illness and premature death.”

The West Coast Health Alliance

The West Coast Health Alliance was formed to ensure that public health recommendations are guided by science, effectiveness and safety at a time when CDC leadership changes, reduced transparency and the compromise of key advisory panels have called into question the federal government’s capacity to address the nation’s public health challenges.  

New WCHA charter

WCHA has established a charter that lays out the shared principles and scope that guides its work. California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii formed the West Coast Health Alliance to uphold integrity of effective public health strategies to protect the health of our communities. Through this partnership, WCHA will collaborate on the review of the best available science and evidence to make unified recommendations that support safety, efficacy, transparency, access, and trust.  

WCHA goals and objectives

The goals and objectives of the WCHA include the following: 

  • Work together to ensure the public has access to credible information
  • Coordinate to reduce confusion and increase trust in public health
  • Provide evidence-based position statements, policy recommendations and guidance
  • Seek alignment with respected national professional organizations
  • Share tools and best practices 
 

WCHA Shared Principles

To protect the health of our communities, the West Coast Health Alliance will work to ensure that our public health strategies are based on the best available science. We will independently pursue strategies shaped by our unique laws, geographies, histories, and peoples, using these shared principles as the foundations of our Alliance: 

  1. Health as a right: We affirm that all members of our communities should have access to quality health care and information.
  2. Science and integrity: We are committed to leading with science and to grounding our policies and recommendations in rigorous research, clinical expertise, and decades of proven public health practice. We commit to reevaluating our recommendations as new data becomes available.
  3. Transparency and trust: Our communities deserve clear, transparent communication about health, rooted in science. We will safeguard public trust through honesty, clarity, and accountability.
  4. Public health responsibility: We recognize the responsibility entrusted to us to protect and promote the health of the public. We will serve in a manner worthy of that trust, prioritizing prevention and evidence-based care to save lives.
  5. Equity at our core: We are committed to giving everyone in our communities the opportunity to attain their highest level of health, and to eliminating barriers to evidence-based care especially for disproportionately impacted or marginalized communities.
  6. Tribal sovereignty: We affirm and respect Tribal sovereignty, recognizing Tribes’ authority over their health services. We also acknowledge health disparities impacting Indigenous peoples.
  7. Coverage and access: We advocate for full coverage by payors of preventive services. 

WCHA’s planned scope of work

The scope of the WCHA will focus on the following: 

  • Evaluating and responding to threats to national public health policy and recommendations
  • Reviewing data, information, and reports from credible clinical and scientific professional organizations that use evidence-based methodologies and source materials to assess changes in public health policy
  • Develop unified public health position statements, policy recommendations and guidance
  • Addressing communications needs and countering mis- and dis-information 

###

West Coast Health Alliance, OHA, Leading National Medical Organizations Continue To Recommend Hepatitis B Vaccination For Newborns - 12/05/25

December 5, 2025 

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov  

West Coast Health Alliance, OHA, leading national medical organizations continue to recommend hepatitis B vaccination for newborns

WCHA disagrees with CDC’s Advisory Committee’s change to decades-long vaccine recommendation that has reduced pediatric Hepatitis B infections by 99 percent 

  • What you need to know: Hepatitis B is a highly infectious virus that attacks the liver and can cause serious illness and death. The hepatitis B vaccination is an effective way to prevent infection and its complications. New ACIP recommendations could lead to more children and adults getting liver disease and liver cancer.

PORTLAND, Ore.—The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) strongly supports that hepatitis B vaccination continue to be routinely offered to all newborns, with the first dose of the vaccine given within 24 hours of birth for newborns weighing at least 2,000 grams (4 pounds, 7 ounces), followed by completion of the vaccine series. This recommendation aligns with trusted national medical organizations including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America.  

ACIP’s change to hepatitis B immunization lacks credible evidence

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has voted to end the universal recommendation for hepatitis B vaccination for all infants at birth—a strategy that has reduced pediatric hepatitis B infections in the United States by 99 percent. The ACIP also voted that parents should consult their provider regarding blood tests following each dose of the vaccine series. There was no credible evidence presented to support either of these changes. Delaying the birth dose of hepatitis B vaccine and using blood tests to guide vaccination will lead to more children and adults developing preventable liver disease and liver cancer with no evidence of a safety benefit.

A review by the Vaccine Integrity Project found that the vaccine is safe regardless of when it is given, and there are no safety benefits to delaying the first dose. Delaying the first dose increases the risk of infection and jeopardizes completion of the full vaccine series, which is required for long-lasting protection. Many with chronic hepatitis B do not know they are infected, and infants may unknowingly be infected by household and other contacts following birth. The birth dose acts as a critical safety net to protect newborns from infection. It is not known for how long and how strongly children are protected against hepatitis B infection if they don't receive a complete vaccine series. The unproven recommendation to obtain blood tests to guide the number of hepatitis B shots will subject infants to painful and unnecessary blood draws, increase health care costs, delay immunization, and risks decreased protection against infection. Completion of the vaccine series has been shown to offer the best protection. 

Importance of the hepatitis B “birth dose” vaccine

Hepatitis B is a highly infectious virus that attacks the liver and can cause chronic liver disease, liver cancer, liver failure, and death. It spreads easily — even without visible blood or body fluids and can survive on surfaces for up to seven days. Before the United States adopted a recommendation for universal infant hepatitis B vaccination in 1991, thousands of children were infected each year — both at birth and during childhood. Infants and young children are especially vulnerable: up to 90 percent of infants infected at birth develop chronic infection and 25 percent of infected children die prematurely from hepatitis-related disease.

The hepatitis B vaccine is effective, well tolerated, and decades of global data support its safety. It should continue to be offered to all parents at birth. Universal vaccination of newborns within 24 hours of birth, followed by completion of the vaccination series, is essential to protecting infants and young children, who are at greatest risk from complications from hepatitis B.

“The birth of a child is a precious occasion that should be the start of many years of happiness for a family,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA. “That happiness should not be marred by an increased risk of a preventable hepatitis B infection. Years of scientific evidence supports hepatitis B vaccination for newborns within 24 hours of birth, which can prevent serious illness and premature death.”

The West Coast Health Alliance

The West Coast Health Alliance was formed to ensure that public health recommendations are guided by science, effectiveness and safety at a time when CDC leadership changes, reduced transparency and the compromise of key advisory panels have called into question the federal government’s capacity to address the nation’s public health challenges.  

New WCHA charter

WCHA has established a charter that lays out the shared principles and scope that guides its work. California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii formed the West Coast Health Alliance to uphold integrity of effective public health strategies to protect the health of our communities. Through this partnership, WCHA will collaborate on the review of the best available science and evidence to make unified recommendations that support safety, efficacy, transparency, access, and trust.  

WCHA goals and objectives

The goals and objectives of the WCHA include the following: 

  • Work together to ensure the public has access to credible information
  • Coordinate to reduce confusion and increase trust in public health
  • Provide evidence-based position statements, policy recommendations and guidance
  • Seek alignment with respected national professional organizations
  • Share tools and best practices 
 

WCHA Shared Principles

To protect the health of our communities, the West Coast Health Alliance will work to ensure that our public health strategies are based on the best available science. We will independently pursue strategies shaped by our unique laws, geographies, histories, and peoples, using these shared principles as the foundations of our Alliance: 

  1. Health as a right: We affirm that all members of our communities should have access to quality health care and information.
  2. Science and integrity: We are committed to leading with science and to grounding our policies and recommendations in rigorous research, clinical expertise, and decades of proven public health practice. We commit to reevaluating our recommendations as new data becomes available.
  3. Transparency and trust: Our communities deserve clear, transparent communication about health, rooted in science. We will safeguard public trust through honesty, clarity, and accountability.
  4. Public health responsibility: We recognize the responsibility entrusted to us to protect and promote the health of the public. We will serve in a manner worthy of that trust, prioritizing prevention and evidence-based care to save lives.
  5. Equity at our core: We are committed to giving everyone in our communities the opportunity to attain their highest level of health, and to eliminating barriers to evidence-based care especially for disproportionately impacted or marginalized communities.
  6. Tribal sovereignty: We affirm and respect Tribal sovereignty, recognizing Tribes’ authority over their health services. We also acknowledge health disparities impacting Indigenous peoples.
  7. Coverage and access: We advocate for full coverage by payors of preventive services. 

WCHA’s planned scope of work

The scope of the WCHA will focus on the following: 

  • Evaluating and responding to threats to national public health policy and recommendations
  • Reviewing data, information, and reports from credible clinical and scientific professional organizations that use evidence-based methodologies and source materials to assess changes in public health policy
  • Develop unified public health position statements, policy recommendations and guidance
  • Addressing communications needs and countering mis- and dis-information 

###

OHA Urges Vaccinations As Flu Activity Rises, Holidays Approach - 12/04/25

December 4, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov  

OHA urges vaccinations as flu activity rises, holidays approach  

PORTLAND, Ore – As influenza activity increases over the next two months before its expected peak in early spring, health officials urge everyone to get their flu vaccine, particularly as people gather indoors to celebrate the holidays. 

So far, hospitalizations remain low. But the percentage of positive flu tests is on the rise.

“The flu season generally continues into the spring, which means flu activity will continue to increase for many months,” said Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division. “That’s why it’s never too late to get the flu vaccine.”

Chiou added that getting vaccinated now is especially important. “People will leave Thanksgiving, not only with leftovers, but also with the flu. It’s not too late to get your flu shot, especially before the upcoming holidays. The flu shot is the best way to help make sure you don’t miss out on holiday festivities or get other people sick.”

Last year’s flu season in Oregon was the worst in the state’s recent history. OHA releases the latest information on the flu season in its weekly FluBites report. Information on flu activity can also be found on Oregon’s Respiratory Virus Data dashboard.

Flu is a contagious, respiratory tract infection caused by the influenza virus.

Symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy and runny nose, muscle aches, headache and fatigue. It can result in mild to severe illness, including hospitalization and death.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend seasonal flu vaccination for everyone ages 6 months or older.

Nearly 1 million people in Oregon have been vaccinated so far this year, which is about 5% lower than at the same time last year. The flu vaccination rate has been in decline for several years.

Certain groups, including older adults, young children, pregnant people and people with certain health conditions, are at higher risk for serious complications from influenza.

The hospitalization rate is highest for people ages 65 and older, but flu seasons are unpredictable and even young and healthy people can develop severe disease.

The best way people can protect themselves and others is by getting a flu vaccine every year.

People can get the COVID-19, influenza and RSV vaccines by contacting their health plan, health care provider, county public health clinic or federally qualified health center. Parents and caregivers of children can also search for a clinic by calling 211 or visiting 211info.org. 

This video reminds people not to let influenza take us out of the picture this year. 

###

OHA Urges Vaccinations As Flu Activity Rises, Holidays Approach - 12/04/25

December 4, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov  

OHA urges vaccinations as flu activity rises, holidays approach  

PORTLAND, Ore – As influenza activity increases over the next two months before its expected peak in early spring, health officials urge everyone to get their flu vaccine, particularly as people gather indoors to celebrate the holidays. 

So far, hospitalizations remain low. But the percentage of positive flu tests is on the rise.

“The flu season generally continues into the spring, which means flu activity will continue to increase for many months,” said Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division. “That’s why it’s never too late to get the flu vaccine.”

Chiou added that getting vaccinated now is especially important. “People will leave Thanksgiving, not only with leftovers, but also with the flu. It’s not too late to get your flu shot, especially before the upcoming holidays. The flu shot is the best way to help make sure you don’t miss out on holiday festivities or get other people sick.”

Last year’s flu season in Oregon was the worst in the state’s recent history. OHA releases the latest information on the flu season in its weekly FluBites report. Information on flu activity can also be found on Oregon’s Respiratory Virus Data dashboard.

Flu is a contagious, respiratory tract infection caused by the influenza virus.

Symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy and runny nose, muscle aches, headache and fatigue. It can result in mild to severe illness, including hospitalization and death.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend seasonal flu vaccination for everyone ages 6 months or older.

Nearly 1 million people in Oregon have been vaccinated so far this year, which is about 5% lower than at the same time last year. The flu vaccination rate has been in decline for several years.

Certain groups, including older adults, young children, pregnant people and people with certain health conditions, are at higher risk for serious complications from influenza.

The hospitalization rate is highest for people ages 65 and older, but flu seasons are unpredictable and even young and healthy people can develop severe disease.

The best way people can protect themselves and others is by getting a flu vaccine every year.

People can get the COVID-19, influenza and RSV vaccines by contacting their health plan, health care provider, county public health clinic or federally qualified health center. Parents and caregivers of children can also search for a clinic by calling 211 or visiting 211info.org. 

This video reminds people not to let influenza take us out of the picture this year. 

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Recreational Use Advisory Lifted For Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge - 12/03/25

December 3, 2025

Media contact: Jonathan Modie PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

Pets should continue to be kept away as detected levels remain above educational guideline values for animals

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge in Klamath County.

OHA issued the advisory July 9.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge is below recreational guideline values for people. However, detected levels are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from these areas.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

Recreational Use Advisory Lifted For Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge - 12/03/25

December 3, 2025

Media contact: Jonathan Modie PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

Pets should continue to be kept away as detected levels remain above educational guideline values for animals

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge in Klamath County.

OHA issued the advisory July 9.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge is below recreational guideline values for people. However, detected levels are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from these areas.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

Recreational Use Advisory Lifted For Wapato Marsh At Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge - 12/02/25

December 2, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Wapato Marsh at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge

Continue to keep pets away as levels detected remain above educational guideline values for animals

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Wapato Marsh at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge in Multnomah County.

OHA issued the advisory May 1.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Wapato Marsh at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from these areas.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water.

If people see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind.

There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

Recreational Use Advisory Lifted For Wapato Marsh At Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge - 12/02/25

December 2, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Wapato Marsh at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge

Continue to keep pets away as levels detected remain above educational guideline values for animals

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Wapato Marsh at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge in Multnomah County.

OHA issued the advisory May 1.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Wapato Marsh at Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from these areas.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water.

If people see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind.

There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

Agencies Unite To Urge Oregonians To ‘Rethink The Drink’ This Holiday Season - 11/25/25

November 25, 2025

Media contacts: 

Agencies unite to urge Oregonians to ‘Rethink the Drink’ this holiday season

The Rethink the Drink invites open conversation about alcohol, how people can keep Oregon safe this holiday season.

PORTLAND, Ore. -  As Oregonians prepare to celebrate, gather and reconnect with loved ones this holiday season, state agencies renew their call to “Rethink the Drink” - encouraging people to pause, reflect and make mindful and healthy choices when it comes to their alcohol consumption.

Leading this effort is Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Oregon Alcohol & Drug Policy Commission (ADPC) Oregon Liquor & Cannabis Commission (OLCC) and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). Through statewide community outreach, they hope to shift the holiday drinking culture in Oregon to reduce the pressure to drink alcohol during family gatherings or holiday parties.

This year, Rethink the Drink is encouraging people to come together to help one another be healthy and care for their communities. That includes creating healthy environments that support people in their efforts to drink less.

“During celebrations, it’s easy to drink more than we intend to,” says Dr. Tom Jeanne, M.D., M.P.H., deputy state health officer at OHA. “We can support each other by having honest, compassionate conversations about our drinking - not judging, but looking out for one another.”

Holiday events and binge drinking sometimes go hand in hand. That can contribute to unsafe driving and other dangerous behavior. Binge drinking impairs judgement, slows reaction times and increases the likelihood of making fatal decisions.

“We see the consequences of impaired driving all year, but the risks increase around the holidays,” said Ryan Stone, Impaired Driving Program Analyst at ODOT. “If you plan to drink, plan your ride. A text, a call, or a quick rideshare request can prevent a crash, a DUII, or a tragedy. The people you share the holidays with want you to get home safely.”

More Oregon adults drink excessively than most of us realize, more than 1 in 5. Most people in this group are not affected by alcoholism or an alcohol use disorder. However, by drinking excessively, people increase their odds of developing an alcohol use disorder later in life.

Holiday gatherings often involve social drinking, which can lead to binge and heavy drinking, patterns of drinking associated with injury, impaired driving and long-term health risks. Each year, more than 2,500 Oregonians die from alcohol-related causes including eight types of cancer, liver disease, heart disease, memory and mental health issues, sleep disruptions and more.

What People Can Do to Celebrate Mindfully

To help people enjoy the season with their health in mind, the “Rethink the Drink” campaign offers practical strategies:

  1. Healthy Hosting:
    • Provide non-alcoholic beverage options.
    • Provide ample food since people drink more when they’re hungry.
    • Avoid asking people why they aren’t drinking or pressuring them to drink more.
  2. Pace your drinks:
    • Set a personal drink limit before you arrive.
    • Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or non-alcoholic ones.
    • Consider diluting drinks with ice or low-sugar mixers.
  1. Count and plan:
    • Decide ahead of time how many drinks feels “safe” for you.
    • Track how many drinks you have; consider using an app.
  1. Plan for a safe ride:
    • If you plan to drink, arrange a designated driver, use a rideshare, or take public transportation.
    • Impaired driving isn’t limited to alcohol. If you’re going to use anything that affects how you feel or think, make a transportation plan and line up a sober driver or another safe way home.
  1. Talk about it:
    • Encourage open conversations and ask loved ones how they feel about drinking.
    • Avoid pressuring others to drink; support those who choose not to.

Supporting Everyone

Not everyone drinks, and not everyone who drinks wants to drink a lot. It’s important to create holiday environments that feel safe and inclusive for all.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol dependence or misuse, confidential help is available: 1-800-923-4357 (Oregon’s substance use support line).

The Risks of Impaired Driving

Alcohol continues to play a major role in fatal and serious-injury crashes across Oregon, especially during the holiday season. Even small amounts of alcohol can affect decision-making and slow reaction time.

But alcohol isn’t the only concern. Impairment can come from any substance that makes you feel different — including cannabis, prescription medications, or combinations of substances. All can affect your ability to drive safely.

That’s why agencies are encouraging Oregonians to make a transportation plan before they drink or use any impairing substance. Planning ahead protects you, your loved ones, and everyone else on the road.

Learn more about impaired driving and Oregon’s safety efforts.  

About Rethink the Drink

Rethink the Drink is a health communications initiative led by the Oregon Health Authority, in partnership with ADPC, OLCC, and ODOT. The campaign invites Oregonians to have mindful conversations about when, how much and why they drink - for themselves, their families and their communities. There are several resources at RethinkTheDrink.com to help people who want to drink less, or to support individuals or their loved ones who might have an alcohol use disorder. You can also find Rethink the Drink on Facebook and Instagram.

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Agencies Unite To Urge Oregonians To ‘Rethink The Drink’ This Holiday Season - 11/25/25

November 25, 2025

Media contacts: 

Agencies unite to urge Oregonians to ‘Rethink the Drink’ this holiday season

The Rethink the Drink invites open conversation about alcohol, how people can keep Oregon safe this holiday season.

PORTLAND, Ore. -  As Oregonians prepare to celebrate, gather and reconnect with loved ones this holiday season, state agencies renew their call to “Rethink the Drink” - encouraging people to pause, reflect and make mindful and healthy choices when it comes to their alcohol consumption.

Leading this effort is Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Oregon Alcohol & Drug Policy Commission (ADPC) Oregon Liquor & Cannabis Commission (OLCC) and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). Through statewide community outreach, they hope to shift the holiday drinking culture in Oregon to reduce the pressure to drink alcohol during family gatherings or holiday parties.

This year, Rethink the Drink is encouraging people to come together to help one another be healthy and care for their communities. That includes creating healthy environments that support people in their efforts to drink less.

“During celebrations, it’s easy to drink more than we intend to,” says Dr. Tom Jeanne, M.D., M.P.H., deputy state health officer at OHA. “We can support each other by having honest, compassionate conversations about our drinking - not judging, but looking out for one another.”

Holiday events and binge drinking sometimes go hand in hand. That can contribute to unsafe driving and other dangerous behavior. Binge drinking impairs judgement, slows reaction times and increases the likelihood of making fatal decisions.

“We see the consequences of impaired driving all year, but the risks increase around the holidays,” said Ryan Stone, Impaired Driving Program Analyst at ODOT. “If you plan to drink, plan your ride. A text, a call, or a quick rideshare request can prevent a crash, a DUII, or a tragedy. The people you share the holidays with want you to get home safely.”

More Oregon adults drink excessively than most of us realize, more than 1 in 5. Most people in this group are not affected by alcoholism or an alcohol use disorder. However, by drinking excessively, people increase their odds of developing an alcohol use disorder later in life.

Holiday gatherings often involve social drinking, which can lead to binge and heavy drinking, patterns of drinking associated with injury, impaired driving and long-term health risks. Each year, more than 2,500 Oregonians die from alcohol-related causes including eight types of cancer, liver disease, heart disease, memory and mental health issues, sleep disruptions and more.

What People Can Do to Celebrate Mindfully

To help people enjoy the season with their health in mind, the “Rethink the Drink” campaign offers practical strategies:

  1. Healthy Hosting:
    • Provide non-alcoholic beverage options.
    • Provide ample food since people drink more when they’re hungry.
    • Avoid asking people why they aren’t drinking or pressuring them to drink more.
  2. Pace your drinks:
    • Set a personal drink limit before you arrive.
    • Alternate alcoholic drinks with water or non-alcoholic ones.
    • Consider diluting drinks with ice or low-sugar mixers.
  1. Count and plan:
    • Decide ahead of time how many drinks feels “safe” for you.
    • Track how many drinks you have; consider using an app.
  1. Plan for a safe ride:
    • If you plan to drink, arrange a designated driver, use a rideshare, or take public transportation.
    • Impaired driving isn’t limited to alcohol. If you’re going to use anything that affects how you feel or think, make a transportation plan and line up a sober driver or another safe way home.
  1. Talk about it:
    • Encourage open conversations and ask loved ones how they feel about drinking.
    • Avoid pressuring others to drink; support those who choose not to.

Supporting Everyone

Not everyone drinks, and not everyone who drinks wants to drink a lot. It’s important to create holiday environments that feel safe and inclusive for all.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol dependence or misuse, confidential help is available: 1-800-923-4357 (Oregon’s substance use support line).

The Risks of Impaired Driving

Alcohol continues to play a major role in fatal and serious-injury crashes across Oregon, especially during the holiday season. Even small amounts of alcohol can affect decision-making and slow reaction time.

But alcohol isn’t the only concern. Impairment can come from any substance that makes you feel different — including cannabis, prescription medications, or combinations of substances. All can affect your ability to drive safely.

That’s why agencies are encouraging Oregonians to make a transportation plan before they drink or use any impairing substance. Planning ahead protects you, your loved ones, and everyone else on the road.

Learn more about impaired driving and Oregon’s safety efforts.  

About Rethink the Drink

Rethink the Drink is a health communications initiative led by the Oregon Health Authority, in partnership with ADPC, OLCC, and ODOT. The campaign invites Oregonians to have mindful conversations about when, how much and why they drink - for themselves, their families and their communities. There are several resources at RethinkTheDrink.com to help people who want to drink less, or to support individuals or their loved ones who might have an alcohol use disorder. You can also find Rethink the Drink on Facebook and Instagram.

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Four Steps To A Happy (and Healthy) Holiday Meal - 11/24/25

November 24, 2025 

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov 

Four steps to a happy (and healthy) holiday meal

PORTLAND, Ore.— Families, friends and Thanksgiving guests can stay safe from foodborne germs by practicing four simple steps this holiday: Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill. 

Clean:  Wash hands and surfaces often 

  • Wash your hands at least 20 seconds with soap and water before, during and after preparing food, and before eating.
  • Always wash hands after handling uncooked meat, turkey and other poultry, seafood, flour, or eggs.
  • Wash utensils, cutting boards and countertops with hot, soapy water after preparing each food item.
  • Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water. 
 
 
 

Separate: Avoid cross contamination 

  • Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood and their juices away from other foods when grocery shopping.
  • Keep raw or marinating meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from all other foods at the bottom of the refrigerator; store raw meat, poultry, and seafood in sealed containers or wrap them securely so the juices don't leak onto other foods.
  • Use one cutting board or plate for raw meat, poultry, and seafood and a separate cutting board or plate for produce, bread and other foods that won't be cooked.
 
 

Cook: To the proper temperature 

  • The only way to tell if food is safely cooked to a temperature that kills germs is to use a food thermometer. For example, turkey should cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • This chart provides a detailed list of temperatures and foods, including shellfish and precooked ham. 
 

Chill: Refrigerate promptly 

  • Never leave perishable food out for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if exposed to temperatures above 90°F).
  • Package warm or hot food in clean, shallow containers and then refrigerate — it is OK to put small portions of hot food in the refrigerator since they will chill faster.
  • If the food is exposed to temperatures above 90°F, like sitting in a hot car or at a picnic, refrigerate it within 1 hour.
  • Thaw frozen food safely in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave – never thaw food on the counter because bacteria multiply quickly in the parts of the food that reach room temperature. 
 
 
 

Check out this informative video showing how to safely prepare your Thanksgiving meal. 

For more information, visit OHA’s Food Safety web page  

Four Steps To A Happy (and Healthy) Holiday Meal - 11/24/25

November 24, 2025 

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov 

Four steps to a happy (and healthy) holiday meal

PORTLAND, Ore.— Families, friends and Thanksgiving guests can stay safe from foodborne germs by practicing four simple steps this holiday: Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill. 

Clean:  Wash hands and surfaces often 

  • Wash your hands at least 20 seconds with soap and water before, during and after preparing food, and before eating.
  • Always wash hands after handling uncooked meat, turkey and other poultry, seafood, flour, or eggs.
  • Wash utensils, cutting boards and countertops with hot, soapy water after preparing each food item.
  • Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water. 
 
 
 

Separate: Avoid cross contamination 

  • Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood and their juices away from other foods when grocery shopping.
  • Keep raw or marinating meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from all other foods at the bottom of the refrigerator; store raw meat, poultry, and seafood in sealed containers or wrap them securely so the juices don't leak onto other foods.
  • Use one cutting board or plate for raw meat, poultry, and seafood and a separate cutting board or plate for produce, bread and other foods that won't be cooked.
 
 

Cook: To the proper temperature 

  • The only way to tell if food is safely cooked to a temperature that kills germs is to use a food thermometer. For example, turkey should cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • This chart provides a detailed list of temperatures and foods, including shellfish and precooked ham. 
 

Chill: Refrigerate promptly 

  • Never leave perishable food out for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if exposed to temperatures above 90°F).
  • Package warm or hot food in clean, shallow containers and then refrigerate — it is OK to put small portions of hot food in the refrigerator since they will chill faster.
  • If the food is exposed to temperatures above 90°F, like sitting in a hot car or at a picnic, refrigerate it within 1 hour.
  • Thaw frozen food safely in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave – never thaw food on the counter because bacteria multiply quickly in the parts of the food that reach room temperature. 
 
 
 

Check out this informative video showing how to safely prepare your Thanksgiving meal. 

For more information, visit OHA’s Food Safety web page  

The West Coast Health Alliance Stands With Scientific Evidence: Vaccines Are Not Linked To Autism - 11/21/25

November 21, 2025

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

The West Coast Health Alliance Stands with Scientific Evidence: Vaccines Are Not Linked to Autism

The West Coast Health Alliance continues to strongly recommend vaccines to protect our children, noting that rigorous research of millions of people in multiple countries over decades provides high quality evidence that vaccines are not linked to autism. The Alliance is deeply concerned about inaccurate claims to the contrary recently posted on the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.  

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with multiple contributing genetic and environmental factors. Suggesting it stems from any single cause, such as vaccination, misleads families who deserve accurate guidance. It is not only a disservice to families seeking clarity about vaccines but also potentially harmful to autistic individuals and their families.

Vaccines are thoroughly tested and remain one of the most import ant tools for preventing infectious diseases. Public health guidance on immunization must be grounded in credible, evidence-based science to help parents and caregivers who may be receiving conflicting or inaccurate messages about immunization.

The Alliance encourages families to seek information from trusted health care providers and reputable medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics.

###

The West Coast Health Alliance Stands With Scientific Evidence: Vaccines Are Not Linked To Autism - 11/21/25

November 21, 2025

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

The West Coast Health Alliance Stands with Scientific Evidence: Vaccines Are Not Linked to Autism

The West Coast Health Alliance continues to strongly recommend vaccines to protect our children, noting that rigorous research of millions of people in multiple countries over decades provides high quality evidence that vaccines are not linked to autism. The Alliance is deeply concerned about inaccurate claims to the contrary recently posted on the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.  

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with multiple contributing genetic and environmental factors. Suggesting it stems from any single cause, such as vaccination, misleads families who deserve accurate guidance. It is not only a disservice to families seeking clarity about vaccines but also potentially harmful to autistic individuals and their families.

Vaccines are thoroughly tested and remain one of the most import ant tools for preventing infectious diseases. Public health guidance on immunization must be grounded in credible, evidence-based science to help parents and caregivers who may be receiving conflicting or inaccurate messages about immunization.

The Alliance encourages families to seek information from trusted health care providers and reputable medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics.

###

Recreational Use Advisory Lifted For Hells Canyon Reservoir - 11/18/25

November 18, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider,  PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Hells Canyon Reservoir

Pet owners should continue to keep their pets away from areas that appear to have a bloom

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Hells Canyon Reservoir in Baker and Wallowa Counties.

OHA issued the advisory Aug 20.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Hells Canyon Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected may still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs. Pet owners should therefore keep their pets away from areas that have the appearance of a cyanobacteria bloom.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

Recreational Use Advisory Lifted For Hells Canyon Reservoir - 11/18/25

November 18, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider,  PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Hells Canyon Reservoir

Pet owners should continue to keep their pets away from areas that appear to have a bloom

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Hells Canyon Reservoir in Baker and Wallowa Counties.

OHA issued the advisory Aug 20.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Hells Canyon Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected may still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs. Pet owners should therefore keep their pets away from areas that have the appearance of a cyanobacteria bloom.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

Extremely High Microcystin Levels Detected In The Barnes Unit Of The Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge - 11/17/25

November 17, 2025

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Extremely high microcystin levels detected in the Barnes Unit of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

OHA urges caution for dog owners and waterfowl hunters

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority (OHA) urges caution for dog owns and waterfowl hunters after extremely high microcystin levels were detected in the Barnes Unit of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge.

The sample was taken from an area currently open for waterfowl hunting during the 2025–2026 season. The Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge has been under a recreational advisory since July 9.

Microcystin is a cyanotoxin produced by certain harmful algal blooms. Exposure can cause acute liver damage in people and is often fatal to dogs. Hunters should avoid using contaminated water for cleaning gear or handling harvested birds.

Dogs are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. They can become extremely ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time.

Symptoms

Symptoms of microcystin exposure may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention.

Dogs can experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, loss of appetite and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

For more information about the advisory issued for waterfowl hunting in the Barnes Unit of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, visit the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) news website.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 1-877-290-6767, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

Extremely High Microcystin Levels Detected In The Barnes Unit Of The Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge - 11/17/25

November 17, 2025

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Extremely high microcystin levels detected in the Barnes Unit of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

OHA urges caution for dog owners and waterfowl hunters

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority (OHA) urges caution for dog owns and waterfowl hunters after extremely high microcystin levels were detected in the Barnes Unit of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge.

The sample was taken from an area currently open for waterfowl hunting during the 2025–2026 season. The Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge has been under a recreational advisory since July 9.

Microcystin is a cyanotoxin produced by certain harmful algal blooms. Exposure can cause acute liver damage in people and is often fatal to dogs. Hunters should avoid using contaminated water for cleaning gear or handling harvested birds.

Dogs are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. They can become extremely ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time.

Symptoms

Symptoms of microcystin exposure may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention.

Dogs can experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, loss of appetite and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

For more information about the advisory issued for waterfowl hunting in the Barnes Unit of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, visit the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) news website.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 1-877-290-6767, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

CORRECTION: Seeking Health Care Affordability, OHA Finds Five Organizations Didn't Meet Acceptable Cost Growth Standards In 2023 - 11/17/25

CORRECTION: This news release has been reissued to correct a typo.

 

November 17, 2025

Media contact: Franny White, franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971-349-3539 

Seeking health care affordability, OHA finds five organizations didn't meet acceptable cost growth standards in 2023 

 

Report: Compensation for frontline health care workers growing slower than for others  

SALEM, Ore. – In support of its efforts to make care more affordable, a detailed review of statewide health care spending data led Oregon Health Authority to determine most of the state’s health care organizations had acceptable reasons for high cost growth in 2023. However, OHA also found five entities didn’t have an acceptable reason for their spending increases that year.

For the first time, OHA will require three organizations to develop plans to meet the state’s health care spending target. In a related analysis, OHA also found compensation for frontline health care workers grew slower than for others who worked for Oregon hospitals and medical groups in 2023.

“Making health care affordable benefits everyone: People can more easily maintain their health, employers can better support their workers, and the health care industry can serve more members of their communities,” said OHA Health Policy & Analytics Division Director Clare Pierce-Wrobel.

“As directed by state law, OHA’s Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target Program provides additional transparency into what the state spends on health care,” Pierce-Wrobel said. “In the few cases where OHA finds cost growth is unreasonably high, the program follows thoughtful and gradual accountability standards. When the state, insurers, hospitals, providers and others work together, we can make health care affordable and accessible for everyone in Oregon.”

Health care costs in Oregon and around the country are rising at an alarming rate, outpacing wages and making care unaffordable for working families. Rising costs also strain the budgets of businesses and government agencies that pay for employer health coverage. In addition, reduced federal support for Medicaid and Affordable Care Act health plans is expected to further increase costs by causing people to lose coverage and avoid care until they need more expensive emergency care.

Measuring spending

Each year, OHA’s Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target Program collects and analyzes data from health insurance companies and other sources to measure what people and organizations in Oregon spend on health care. The program has aimed to limit health care cost growth to a 3.4% average annual increase per person since 2021. The Oregon Legislature established the program to help control health care spending.

While evaluating how spending changed between 2022 and 2023, OHA found most entities had an acceptable reason for higher-than-hoped cost growth, including for things like increased frontline workforce costs, high drug costs or increasing services to meet growing community needs. OHA made a total of 120 comparisons between insurance plans, hospital systems and medical groups while examining how those organizations spent while serving people with commercial, Medicare Advantage and Medicaid coverage. These comparisons led OHA to determine three insurance plans, one hospital system and one medical group did not have an acceptable reason for spending more than the state’s target.

The following five entities were found to have unreasonably high health care cost growth in 2023: 

  • St. Charles Health System, whose costs for serving people with commercial insurance increased 26.3%
  • ModaHealth’s Medicare Advantage insurance plans, which increased 15.4%
  • The Corvallis Clinic, whose costs for serving people with commercial insurance increased 8.7%
  • PacificSource’s commercial insurance plans, which increased 7.3%
  • UHC Company’s Medicare Advantage insurance plans, which increased 6.3%
 
 
 
 

Improvement plans

The 2022-2023 measurement period marks the first time that OHA can require organizations to submit performance improvement plans if their high cost growth didn’t occur for an acceptable reason. OHA is requiring three of the above organizations – St. Charles Health System, UHC Company and PacificSource – to submit plans.

As allowed by state law, OHA is excusing two others with unreasonable cost growth. ModaHealth’s Medicare Advantage insurance plans don’t need to submit an improvement plan because they are no longer offered. OHA is also excusing The Corvallis Clinic this year so it can focus on holding its parent company, Optum, accountable in future measurement periods.

The organizations’ performance improvement plans must identify what is causing their high cost growth, name actions they will take to address those cost drivers, and provide a timeline by which their cost growth will be reduced. OHA must approve the plans, which will be due by the end of January 2026.

Starting in 2028, OHA can begin issuing fines to health care entities that consistently fail to meet the target in three out of five years. By design, the Cost Growth Target Program does not immediately penalize an organization for their high cost growth in a single year or two, even if it is determined to be unreasonable. The program may only penalize organizations that fail to meet the cost growth target – without an acceptable reason – three times in a five-year period.

Workforce costs 

Because workforce costs are a significant driver of health care spending and OHA considers spending on frontline workers an acceptable reason for exceeding the state’s health care cost growth target, OHA has also published a related report that examines frontline worker compensation at a subset of the hospitals and medical groups that are subject to the target.

Frontline health care worker compensation recently grew at a slower rate than compensation for others who work at hospitals and medical groups, concludes the report. Frontline worker compensation grew 3.3% in 2023, compared to 13.0% for non-frontline workers. Further, frontline worker compensation represented 60% of total compensation in 2023, down from 62% in 2022.

The 2023 state law that created a requirement for OHA to conduct this analysis defines frontline health care workers as those who aren’t managers and receive total compensation that is less than $200,000 a year. While some providers – including many physicians and nurse anesthetists – earn more than that, they are not considered frontline workers in this analysis.

As planned when Oregon’s Cost Growth Target was first created, OHA is currently revisiting the target’s rate for 2026 through 2030. A short-term workgroup is expected to make a recommendation to OHA after its last meeting on Nov. 19.

More information is in the following reports: 

CORRECTION: Seeking Health Care Affordability, OHA Finds Five Organizations Didn't Meet Acceptable Cost Growth Standards In 2023 - 11/17/25

CORRECTION: This news release has been reissued to correct a typo.

 

November 17, 2025

Media contact: Franny White, franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971-349-3539 

Seeking health care affordability, OHA finds five organizations didn't meet acceptable cost growth standards in 2023 

 

Report: Compensation for frontline health care workers growing slower than for others  

SALEM, Ore. – In support of its efforts to make care more affordable, a detailed review of statewide health care spending data led Oregon Health Authority to determine most of the state’s health care organizations had acceptable reasons for high cost growth in 2023. However, OHA also found five entities didn’t have an acceptable reason for their spending increases that year.

For the first time, OHA will require three organizations to develop plans to meet the state’s health care spending target. In a related analysis, OHA also found compensation for frontline health care workers grew slower than for others who worked for Oregon hospitals and medical groups in 2023.

“Making health care affordable benefits everyone: People can more easily maintain their health, employers can better support their workers, and the health care industry can serve more members of their communities,” said OHA Health Policy & Analytics Division Director Clare Pierce-Wrobel.

“As directed by state law, OHA’s Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target Program provides additional transparency into what the state spends on health care,” Pierce-Wrobel said. “In the few cases where OHA finds cost growth is unreasonably high, the program follows thoughtful and gradual accountability standards. When the state, insurers, hospitals, providers and others work together, we can make health care affordable and accessible for everyone in Oregon.”

Health care costs in Oregon and around the country are rising at an alarming rate, outpacing wages and making care unaffordable for working families. Rising costs also strain the budgets of businesses and government agencies that pay for employer health coverage. In addition, reduced federal support for Medicaid and Affordable Care Act health plans is expected to further increase costs by causing people to lose coverage and avoid care until they need more expensive emergency care.

Measuring spending

Each year, OHA’s Sustainable Health Care Cost Growth Target Program collects and analyzes data from health insurance companies and other sources to measure what people and organizations in Oregon spend on health care. The program has aimed to limit health care cost growth to a 3.4% average annual increase per person since 2021. The Oregon Legislature established the program to help control health care spending.

While evaluating how spending changed between 2022 and 2023, OHA found most entities had an acceptable reason for higher-than-hoped cost growth, including for things like increased frontline workforce costs, high drug costs or increasing services to meet growing community needs. OHA made a total of 120 comparisons between insurance plans, hospital systems and medical groups while examining how those organizations spent while serving people with commercial, Medicare Advantage and Medicaid coverage. These comparisons led OHA to determine three insurance plans, one hospital system and one medical group did not have an acceptable reason for spending more than the state’s target.

The following five entities were found to have unreasonably high health care cost growth in 2023: 

  • St. Charles Health System, whose costs for serving people with commercial insurance increased 26.3%
  • ModaHealth’s Medicare Advantage insurance plans, which increased 15.4%
  • The Corvallis Clinic, whose costs for serving people with commercial insurance increased 8.7%
  • PacificSource’s commercial insurance plans, which increased 7.3%
  • UHC Company’s Medicare Advantage insurance plans, which increased 6.3%
 
 
 
 

Improvement plans

The 2022-2023 measurement period marks the first time that OHA can require organizations to submit performance improvement plans if their high cost growth didn’t occur for an acceptable reason. OHA is requiring three of the above organizations – St. Charles Health System, UHC Company and PacificSource – to submit plans.

As allowed by state law, OHA is excusing two others with unreasonable cost growth. ModaHealth’s Medicare Advantage insurance plans don’t need to submit an improvement plan because they are no longer offered. OHA is also excusing The Corvallis Clinic this year so it can focus on holding its parent company, Optum, accountable in future measurement periods.

The organizations’ performance improvement plans must identify what is causing their high cost growth, name actions they will take to address those cost drivers, and provide a timeline by which their cost growth will be reduced. OHA must approve the plans, which will be due by the end of January 2026.

Starting in 2028, OHA can begin issuing fines to health care entities that consistently fail to meet the target in three out of five years. By design, the Cost Growth Target Program does not immediately penalize an organization for their high cost growth in a single year or two, even if it is determined to be unreasonable. The program may only penalize organizations that fail to meet the cost growth target – without an acceptable reason – three times in a five-year period.

Workforce costs 

Because workforce costs are a significant driver of health care spending and OHA considers spending on frontline workers an acceptable reason for exceeding the state’s health care cost growth target, OHA has also published a related report that examines frontline worker compensation at a subset of the hospitals and medical groups that are subject to the target.

Frontline health care worker compensation recently grew at a slower rate than compensation for others who work at hospitals and medical groups, concludes the report. Frontline worker compensation grew 3.3% in 2023, compared to 13.0% for non-frontline workers. Further, frontline worker compensation represented 60% of total compensation in 2023, down from 62% in 2022.

The 2023 state law that created a requirement for OHA to conduct this analysis defines frontline health care workers as those who aren’t managers and receive total compensation that is less than $200,000 a year. While some providers – including many physicians and nurse anesthetists – earn more than that, they are not considered frontline workers in this analysis.

As planned when Oregon’s Cost Growth Target was first created, OHA is currently revisiting the target’s rate for 2026 through 2030. A short-term workgroup is expected to make a recommendation to OHA after its last meeting on Nov. 19.

More information is in the following reports: 

Families Urged To Stop ByHeart Formula Use To Reduce Infant Botulism Risk As National Outbreak Investigation Continues - 11/14/25

November 14, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Families urged to stop ByHeart formula use to reduce infant botulism risk as national outbreak investigation continues 

Oregon now has two cases tied to company's products 

PORTLAND, Ore.—State agencies continue to track botulism cases linked to a nationally recalled infant formula—including two cases of infection in Oregon—but health officials say there are steps families can take now to reduce their babies’ exposure to the infection. 

Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Department of Agriculture are collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and public health and food safety officials from other states to investigate the multi-state outbreak connected with consumption of powdered infant formula produced by ByHeart.  

Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., OHA medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations, says it is helpful that ByHeart, which manufactures the formula implicated in the infant botulism outbreak, has voluntarily recalled its products. That ensures the ByHeart formula remains off store shelves until federal, state and local health agencies complete their investigations. 

It’s the ByHeart products that may still be on families’ shelves at home that are the biggest concern for Chiou and his public health colleagues in Oregon.  

“Many parents and caregivers may still have ByHeart infant formula products in their pantries, and they may not be aware of the national recall and botulism outbreak, or perhaps they don’t think the ByHeart products they do have are affected,” Chiou says. “Our message is clear: Do not use ByHeart infant formula.” 

Infant botulism is a rare illness that happens when a baby swallows Clostridium botulinum spores that grow in the gut and make toxin. The bacteria are commonly found in the environment, including soil, dust and honey. Infant botulism often starts with constipation and progresses to difficulty feeding, a weak and altered cry, and loss of muscle tone. Severe cases require hospitalization for specialized treatment.  

Nationally, there have been 23 cases of infant botulism from 13 states identified in connection with the outbreak, including two infants from Oregon;  ill infants have been hospitalized and there have been no deaths. ByHeart has issued a recall of all its infant formula and ODA is conducting recall effectiveness checks to ensure that all recalled product has been removed from stores statewide. 

OHA and ODA urge people to stop using any ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula, including cans and single-serve sticks: 

  • Label any leftover formula that your infant was fed as “DO NOT USE” and keep the container stored in a safe spot for at least a month in case your infant develops symptoms and the product needs to be tested. If no symptoms appear after a month, throw the leftover formula away.
  • Wash items and surfaces that may have touched the formula using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher. Special soaps or detergents are not needed. 
 

If your baby has consumed recalled formula, it is important to recognize that most infants who have consumed the formula have not become sick. Watch infants for progressive symptoms, as they may take up to a month to appear. Testing for botulism is not available for infants without symptoms.   

Seek immediate medical care if your infant develops any of these symptoms: 

  • Poor feeding, with loss of interest in feeding for at least six hours or weaker suck
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Loss of head control
  • Decreased facial expression 
 
 
 

“I know this is a scary message for parents to hear, that the formula they have given their child might have made them sick,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., state health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA. “We want to provide you the best information on who may be at risk, what symptoms to look for that your child may be getting sick, and steps you can take to help keep your baby healthy. Right now, we know of two babies who have gotten sick in Oregon, even though many more drank the formula we are talking about.” 

For the latest information regarding this active investigation, consult the outbreak investigation websites from the CDC and FDA. 

###

Families Urged To Stop ByHeart Formula Use To Reduce Infant Botulism Risk As National Outbreak Investigation Continues - 11/14/25

November 14, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Families urged to stop ByHeart formula use to reduce infant botulism risk as national outbreak investigation continues 

Oregon now has two cases tied to company's products 

PORTLAND, Ore.—State agencies continue to track botulism cases linked to a nationally recalled infant formula—including two cases of infection in Oregon—but health officials say there are steps families can take now to reduce their babies’ exposure to the infection. 

Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Department of Agriculture are collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and public health and food safety officials from other states to investigate the multi-state outbreak connected with consumption of powdered infant formula produced by ByHeart.  

Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., OHA medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations, says it is helpful that ByHeart, which manufactures the formula implicated in the infant botulism outbreak, has voluntarily recalled its products. That ensures the ByHeart formula remains off store shelves until federal, state and local health agencies complete their investigations. 

It’s the ByHeart products that may still be on families’ shelves at home that are the biggest concern for Chiou and his public health colleagues in Oregon.  

“Many parents and caregivers may still have ByHeart infant formula products in their pantries, and they may not be aware of the national recall and botulism outbreak, or perhaps they don’t think the ByHeart products they do have are affected,” Chiou says. “Our message is clear: Do not use ByHeart infant formula.” 

Infant botulism is a rare illness that happens when a baby swallows Clostridium botulinum spores that grow in the gut and make toxin. The bacteria are commonly found in the environment, including soil, dust and honey. Infant botulism often starts with constipation and progresses to difficulty feeding, a weak and altered cry, and loss of muscle tone. Severe cases require hospitalization for specialized treatment.  

Nationally, there have been 23 cases of infant botulism from 13 states identified in connection with the outbreak, including two infants from Oregon;  ill infants have been hospitalized and there have been no deaths. ByHeart has issued a recall of all its infant formula and ODA is conducting recall effectiveness checks to ensure that all recalled product has been removed from stores statewide. 

OHA and ODA urge people to stop using any ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula, including cans and single-serve sticks: 

  • Label any leftover formula that your infant was fed as “DO NOT USE” and keep the container stored in a safe spot for at least a month in case your infant develops symptoms and the product needs to be tested. If no symptoms appear after a month, throw the leftover formula away.
  • Wash items and surfaces that may have touched the formula using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher. Special soaps or detergents are not needed. 
 

If your baby has consumed recalled formula, it is important to recognize that most infants who have consumed the formula have not become sick. Watch infants for progressive symptoms, as they may take up to a month to appear. Testing for botulism is not available for infants without symptoms.   

Seek immediate medical care if your infant develops any of these symptoms: 

  • Poor feeding, with loss of interest in feeding for at least six hours or weaker suck
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Loss of head control
  • Decreased facial expression 
 
 
 

“I know this is a scary message for parents to hear, that the formula they have given their child might have made them sick,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., state health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA. “We want to provide you the best information on who may be at risk, what symptoms to look for that your child may be getting sick, and steps you can take to help keep your baby healthy. Right now, we know of two babies who have gotten sick in Oregon, even though many more drank the formula we are talking about.” 

For the latest information regarding this active investigation, consult the outbreak investigation websites from the CDC and FDA. 

###