Oregon WIC Updates Food List To Boost Nutrition, Expand Choice -07/03/25

July 3, 2025

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

Oregon WIC updates food list to boost nutrition, expand choice

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is updating its food package today for participants to enhance nutrition and expand choice for families statewide.

The updated WIC food package reflects the latest nutrition science and aligns with healthy dietary patterns recognized around the world. This marks the third update to WIC foods in the program’s 50-year history of promoting family and child health.

The last update to the WIC foods was in 2009 and introduced improvements such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. The new update builds on that progress by expanding access to healthy foods for families across Oregon.

“The changes bring increased flexibility, variety and choice, allowing families to honor cultural traditions, enjoy shared meals and have healthy and whole food options,” said Tiare Sanna M.S., RDN, Oregon WIC director. “There are even better supports now for special dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegan and allergen-free options.”

• Hear Perla Castillo, RD, nutrition consultant at Oregon WIC, discuss the updated food list in videos available in English and Spanish.

Enhancements to the WIC Food Package include:

• More fruits and vegetables, expanded to include fresh-cut herbs.
• A wider variety of protein and plant-based options, including fish options for all kids and adults; more cheese varieties, including sliced, string and shredded; new yogurt brands with reduced added sugar; new plant-based milks; and new nut and seed butters.
• Expanded whole-grain bread choices such as 100% whole wheat buns, bagels, pita and naan. Plus, new gluten-free, whole-grain bread options. WIC now offers a dozen whole grains including quinoa, teff, corn masa flour, and barley to name a few.

See the WIC food package changes website for more details.

In response to WIC’s nutrition standards, food manufacturers have improved the nutritional content of products available to all consumers.

Sanna explained that when WIC increases choices and options for WIC participants, it improves choices and access for the whole community.

“When grocery stores improve access to more nutritious food options for WIC participants, it has a positive ripple effect on the entire community,” Sanna said. “For the stores, that means more customers.”

Sanna added that WIC conducts a price and availability survey throughout Oregon to ensure participants in every community across the state have similar access to food.

Starting today, July 1, Oregon WIC participants can shop for foods on the updated list using their benefit card at any of the 426 WIC-authorized grocery stores across Oregon.

About WIC

The Oregon WIC Program improves nutrition security for families by providing healthy food, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and connections to community resources for pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding individuals, infants, and children up to age 5. WIC serves families in all 36 Oregon counties through more than 100 clinics

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OHA Urges Parents, Caregivers To Avoid Recalled Baby Food -07/02/25

July 2, 2025

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

OHA urges parents, caregivers to avoid recalled baby food

PORTLAND, Ore.—Following reports of lead poisoning cases in two counties, Oregon Health Authority is urging parents and caregivers to avoid using a baby food that has been recalled by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

Two cases of elevated blood lead levels in babies were detected in Oregon. During interviews with the families, investigators determined the children consumed the flavor affected by the recall.

The cases followed a recall alert in March of more than 25,000 packages of a baby food called Good & Gather Baby Pea, Zucchini, Kale, Thyme Vegetable Puree. The product was sold in 4-ounce containers. No other flavor of the product has been subject to recall.

Good & Gather is a Target store brand, and the product was sold nationwide at the company’s stores. The FDA has since labeled the recall a Class II event, which means that use of or exposure to this product “may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences,” but the probability of serious health impacts is low. 

While the FDA recall is considered “terminated,” the product has a best use date of December 2025, so there may be families with the product still in their homes.

Lead is of special concern for babies, toddlers and children because even small amounts of lead may affect behavior, cognitive development and academic achievement, according to American Academy of Pediatrics.

“While lead is toxic for all people regardless of age, small children are especially at risk because they’re still growing and developing,” said Ryan Barker, OHA’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program coordinator. “Continued exposure over time can permanently damage their central nervous system, which may result in long-term health problems, such as learning disorders, impaired speech and brain damage.”

• Hear Barker discuss the effects of child lead poisoning in this video.

Signs of lead poisoning are not always easy to see and can be mistaken for other illnesses. Without a blood test, lead poisoning may go undiagnosed, especially since affected children often don’t look or act sick.

Possible signs of lead exposure and symptoms in children include:  

• Tiredness or loss of energy.
• Hyperactivity.
• Reduced attention span.
• Irritability or crankiness.
• Poor appetite.
• Weight loss.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Constipation.
• Aches or pains in stomach.

More information on blood testing and lead can be found on the following pages:

• CDC’s Testing Children for Lead Poisoning
• Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Units' Recommendations on Management of Childhood Lead Exposure
• Oregon Health Authority’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program

Oregon health care providers and laboratories are required by law to report certain diseases and conditions, including elevated and non-elevated lead test results, to local health departments or OHA.

Last year Oregon had 361 lead poisoning cases in children, with 237 affecting children younger than 6.  The most common cases are due to ingesting paint and paint dust containing lead, but exposures from traditional cosmetics, glazed pottery, and informally imported spices have been identified.

For more information, visit OHA’s lead poisoning in Oregon page, and visit the CDC’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program page.

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Nye Beach Health Advisory Issued July 2 -07/02/25

July 2, 2025

Media contacts: Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8843, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Nye Beach health advisory issued July 2

High bacteria levels prompt OHA recommendation to avoid water contact

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is issuing a public health advisory today for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters at Nye Beach in Lincoln County. People should avoid direct contact with the water in this area until the advisory is lifted.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Children, elderly and those with a compromised immune system should use extra caution as they are more vulnerable to illness from waterborne bacteria.

Visitors should avoid wading in nearby creeks, pools of water on the beach, or in discolored water, and stay clear of water runoff flowing into the ocean. Levels of fecal bacteria tend to be higher in these types of water sources.

Unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters can come from both shore and inland sources including:

• Stormwater runoff
• Sewer overflows
• Failing septic systems
• Animal waste from livestock, pets and wildlife

Even if there is no advisory in effect, avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.

Ocean waters will be re-tested after an advisory is issued. Once bacteria levels are at a safe level, OHA will notify the public that the advisory is lifted.

While this advisory is in effect at Nye Beach, state officials continue to encourage other recreational activities (flying kites, picnicking, playing on the beach, walking, etc.) on this beach because they pose no health risk even during an advisory.

For the most recent information on advisories, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0482, or 877-290-6767 (toll-free).

OHA Encourages Everyone To Rethink The Drink As Summer Campaign Launches To Address Excessive Alcohol Use -07/02/25

July 2, 2025

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

OHA encourages everyone to Rethink the Drink as summer campaign launches to address excessive alcohol use

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is launching a summer Rethink the Drink campaign this week to encourage people in Oregon to consider their alcohol use.

The state’s Excessive Alcohol Use Prevention Program is urging people to come together to prevent the harms of excessive alcohol use and make communities safer. People may see or hear advertisements, including on TV, radio, online and social media.

Independent evaluation data from Rethink the Drink’s recent campaigns show 92% of Oregonians agree excessive drinking causes community harm, and 66% believe alcohol should have less presence in their communities. Those exposed to the Rethink the Drink campaign were significantly more likely to have conversations about their drinking. The full evaluation report is available online.

Increase in sales, increase in harms

More than 2,500 people in Oregon die from alcohol-related causes every year. During summer months, the state sees liquor sales increase, which means there is more alcohol in communities and people may be drinking more.

“Whether you’re at home, attending an event or outside at a gathering, it can feel like many of our favorite summer activities encourage drinking,” says Tom Jeanne, M.D., M.P.H., deputy state health officer and epidemiologist at OHA. “With an increase in summer drinking, we see an increase in the harms as well.”

Jeanne adds that the immediate harms include motor vehicle crashes, boating injuries, drownings and heat deaths. “On top of these, alcohol contributes to cancer, heart disease, poor mental health, and many other health harms all year long,” he says.

• Hear Dr. Tom Jeanne discuss excessive alcohol use and ways to prevent it during summer in this video: https://youtu.be/24kQwi3XPpg.

Luis Pimentel, alcohol and drug prevention coordinator at Lane County Public Health, says, “We appreciate Rethink the Drink and this round of summer messaging reminding people to have conversations about alcohol.”

“We have so much interest in safe drinking messages from our partners in law enforcement, transportation and those who plan summer events, that we truly value Rethink the Drink’s presence in our community,” Pimentel adds.

Tips for a safe summer season:

• Plan ahead: Arrange for a designated driver and use public transportation or ride-share services.
• Host responsibly: Offer non-alcoholic beverages for summer events you’re planning.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and eat food while you’re drinking.
• Drink less: Consider swapping every other drink with water or a non-alcoholic beverage, or watering down a drink with more ice or low-sugar mixer.
• Decide your alcohol limit for the week: If you want to reduce your drinking, think about what triggers you to drink too much and create a plan to handle urges.
• Count: Track your drinking using a mobile app or other tools. Find resources at rethinkthedrink.com/resources
• Have conversations: Take time to pause, learn about the harms caused by excessive drinking, and talk with your loved ones about the way alcohol is prevalent in our lives and communities. Join the conversation at rethinkthedrink.com

Rethink the Drink, an OHA initiative, aims to build healthier communities by decreasing excessive drinking and the harm it causes to individuals, families, and communities. Rethink the Drink raises awareness of the effects of excessive alcohol use across Oregon. It aims to start conversations about alcohol’s role in our own lives and communities. Rethink the Drink is committed to OHA’s larger goal to end health inequities in our state by 2030.

Resource Links:

• OHA’s Rethink the Drink tools and resources
• ODOT’s Transportation Safety Impaired Driving Program
• Summer Safety Driving Tips
• Tips to Boat Safe and Sober

If you or someone you care about is suffering from alcohol dependence or an alcohol use disorder, free confidential resources and support are available online or by calling or 1-800-923-4357.

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New Public Health Equity Funding Opportunity Opened For Community-based Organizations -07/01/25

July 1, 2025

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

New public health equity funding opportunity opened for community-based organizations

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division has released a new funding opportunity for community-based organizations (CBOs). The Public Health Equity Request for Grant Applications (RFGA) opened today and will close Aug. 22, 2025, at 5 p.m.

Through this RFGA, OHA seeks to improve health outcomes through increased access to health care and prevention services for all Oregonians. OHA recognizes that past and present policies, barriers in systems such as health care and housing, and lasting social and economic challenges have made it harder for some communities to be healthy and create the futures they want for themselves and their families. Differences in income, education and opportunities have led to critical and persistent health gaps.

Some communities most affected by health inequities include communities of color, Tribal communities, individuals with disabilities, immigrants and refugees, undocumented populations, migrant and seasonal farmworkers, LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, faith-based communities, people living with lower incomes, older adults, rural communities, individuals without stable housing and others.

OHA invites grant applications from local CBOs that aim to improve the health of Oregon communities by using the strengths, knowledge, skills, and leadership of the people they serve. The goal of this RFGA is to build strong partnerships that put community-led ideas first.

Areas of funding

Grants from this funding—total statewide funding amount will be determined in late fall 2025—will be flexible to allow CBOs to develop work that best addresses the needs of the community within specified program areas. OHA’s Equity Office will work with CBOs and programs within the Public Health Division to engage communities on long-term public health efforts in the following program areas, rooted in health equity:

• Adolescent and School Health
• Communicable Disease: Immunizations
• Communicable Disease: Prevention of HIV, Sexually Transmitted Infections, and Tuberculosis
• Commercial Tobacco Prevention
• Community Resilience: Community Connection & Empowerment
• Community Resilience: Emergency Preparedness and Response
• Environmental Public Health
• Lower Umatilla Basin Ground Water Management Area (LUBGWMA)/Domestic Wells
• Overdose Prevention
• Preventing Environmental Exposures for Children’s Health (PEECH)

RFGA informational webinars

OHA’s Equity Office and Public Health Division program staff will offer RFGA informational webinars and application technical assistance sessions in English and Spanish from July 2 through Aug. 5, 2025, with specific dates subject to change. All webinars will feature the same content and will be recorded. Those interested can choose the date and time that works best for their schedule.

Click the links below to view list of informational webinars and application technical assistance (TA) registration sessions:

• English: https://conta.cc/445fxVh
• Spanish: https://conta.cc/4kfRIQV

Visit the Request for Grant Application landing page to view program activities eligible for funding and to apply:

• Public Health Equity Grant Application landing page: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/publish?EQBCT=b25dfb74b57f4dd09f935732ecb531e5

To receive regular communications about this funding opportunity:

• Sign up for the RFGA listserv: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/a9Osm6Z/OHA2025RFGA
• Contact us: Community.PublicHealth@dhsoha.oregon.gov.
• Visit the OHA Public Health Division webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/ABOUT/Pages/CBO.aspx.

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Recreational Use Advisory Lifted For Lost Creek Lake -07/01/25

July 1, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Lost Creek Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Lost Creek Lake in Jackson County. 

OHA issued the advisory June 24.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cylindrospermopsin in Lost Creek Lake is below recreational guideline values for people.

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 green or brownish-red mats are visible, or 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.

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Recreational Use Advisory Lifted For Lake Billy Chinook -07/01/25

July 1, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Lake Billy Chinook

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Lake Billy Chinook in Jefferson County.

OHA issued the advisory June 18.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of microcystin in Lake Billy Chinook is below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s safety 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.

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Recreational Use Advisory Issued For Lost Creek Lake -06/24/25

June 24, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Lost Creek Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.— Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Lost Creek Lake. This is due to the presence of cylindrospermopsin. at OHA’s recreational use value. The lake is in Jackson County.

Cyanobacteria blooms, also known as harmful algae blooms, are naturally occurring. Some of these bacteria produce toxins that can cause serious illness in people, and illness or death in animals, which are more sensitive. Warm weather and nutrients in the water can cause bacteria to multiply rapidly, forming a “bloom.”

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA encourages people to visit Lost Creek Lake and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of swallowing or inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Drinking waters sources for the public campgrounds and public parks around Lost Creek Lake rely on groundwater wells that are not affected by the toxins from the blooms. They are required to meet public water system rules that assure safe drinking water.

If a residence draws in-home water directly from Lost Creek Lake, OHA advises use of an alternative water source. Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins.

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. Children’s size, play activities and less ability to prevent swallowing may increase their exposure. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Other symptoms may include headache and skin rashes. 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, vomiting, diarrhea, and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

People should alert health care providers if they or a family member are ill and may have been exposed to cyanotoxins. Pet owners should alert their veterinarians to suspected exposure if they seek care.

Fishing

Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks, so OHA recommends not eating fish from those areas. Those who decide to eat the fish should remove fat, skin and organs before cooking or freezing. Toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website. You can report a bloom, human illness, or animal illness directly to OHA.

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Oregon’s First Measles Case Of 2025 Confirmed In Multnomah County -06/24/25

Oregon’s first measles case of 2025 confirmed in Multnomah County

Recreational Use Advisory Lifted For Fern Ridge Reservoir -06/24/25

June 24, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Fern Ridge Reservoir

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Fern Ridge Reservoir in Lane County.

OHA initially issued the advisory on June 18.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Fern Ridge Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for people.

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 a person 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.

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OHA Issues Recreational Use Advisory Issued For Lake Billy Chinook -06/18/25

June 18, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA issues recreational use advisory issued for Lake Billy Chinook

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today issued a recreational use health advisory for Lake Billy Chinook in Jefferson County, due to the presence cyanotoxins above recreational use values for human exposure.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA encourages people to visit Lake Billy Chinook and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. People who do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area are advised to use an alternative water source.

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms 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, vomiting, diarrhea, and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

Fishing

Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks, so OHA recommends not eating fish from those areas. Those who decide to eat the fish should remove fat, skin and organs before cooking or freezing. Toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water.

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

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Recreational Use Advisory Issued For Fern Ridge Reservoir -06/18/25

June 18, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8843, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Fern Ridge Reservoir

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Fern Ridge Reservoir due to the presence of a cyanobacteria bloom. The lake is in Lane County.

The decision to issue the advisory is based on a report of a toxigenic bloom from a partner agency. Results of testing in the days to come will either confirm the advisory or allow us to lift.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA encourages people to visit Fern Ridge Reservoir and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. People who do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area are advised to use an alternative water source.

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from mats attached to the bottom of the lake, floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms 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, vomiting, diarrhea, and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

Fishing

Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks, so OHA recommends not eating fish from those areas. Those who decide to eat the fish should remove fat, skin and organs before cooking or freezing. Toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water.

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

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Oregon Third Worst For Hepatitis C Deaths In U.S., According To Reports -06/16/25

June 16, 2025

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

Oregon third worst for hepatitis C deaths in U.S., according to reports 

PORTLAND, Ore.—As national data show Oregon’s hepatitis C rates are among the worst in the nation, state officials are emphasizing a need for increased community-based screenings and prevention and treatment services in the most affected populations.

According to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people in Oregon are 2.7 times more likely than people who live in other U.S. states to die from hepatitis C--the leading cause of preventable death from reportable disease in Oregon.

The rate of hepatitis-caused deaths in Oregon is 6.76 per 100,000 population, compared with the nationwide average of 2.52 per 100,000.

That is the second-worst rate among U.S. states and ranks behind only Oklahoma and the District of Columbia, according to the CDC’s recently released 2023 Viral Hepatitis Surveillance Report and the 2025 Viral Hepatitis National Progress Report.

“Hepatitis C is common, causes serious illness and leads to a lot of hospitalizations and deaths. The good news is that we can now treat it and spare people a lot of suffering,” said Paul Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division.

“My hope is that public health can play the important role of linking people with hepatitis C to appropriate care,” he said.

Additional resources for bolstering community-based hepatitis C screening, prevention and treatment would be devoted to:

• Developing proven peer-supported services.
• Connecting those afflicted with hepatitis C to life-saving care.
• Training and assisting communities and health care partners in developing systems to eliminate hepatitis C within affected populations.
• Developing systems at the state and local levels to track progress from testing through cure.

The two CDC reports summarize hepatitis A, B and C surveillance and mortality data, which inform the nation’s viral hepatitis response and monitor progress toward national elimination goals.

Hepatitis is liver inflammation, most commonly caused by a virus. In the United States, the most common hepatitis viruses are A, B and C. Each produces similar symptoms, but only B and C can cause chronic (long-term) infection. Chronic hepatitis C can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer and death.

Effective vaccines exist for hepatitis A and B; there is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C, but it can be cured with medication.

Analysis of CDC’s hepatitis C data for Oregon found that:

• People who use illicit drugs run the highest risk of hepatitis C infection.
• Hepatitis C is most common in people 20–29 years of age.
• Due to systemic challenges increasing risk factors, members of the Black, American Indian and Alaska Native populations are twice as likely to contract hepatitis C, compared with the state average.

In this video, Cieslak explains why hepatitis is a significant public health threat.

Hepatitis C used to be very difficult to treat, but it can now be cured with a short course of treatment. However, additional resources are needed for public health to increase community-based hepatitis C screening and linkage to prevention and treatment services in affected populations.

An Oregon Health & Science University study published in March 2025 showed that significant success in treating hepatitis C could be achieved in rural Oregon by using a combination of peer support services and telehealth. But these are not available statewide.

Peer support from people with lived experiences in drug use, shown to build trust and reduce barriers to care, and easy access to care using telemedicine led to a 63% cure rate compared to just 16% with enhanced usual care, the study found.

National goals for 2030 call for at least 80% of people with hepatitis C to be cured. Data from 2013–2022 show only 27% of Oregonians with hepatitis C have been cured, compared with a national average of 35%.

“We’d love to be able to implement peer support services and telehealth for hepatitis C systematically across the state,” Cieslak said.

OHA maintains a dashboard tracking reportable communicable diseases, including hepatitis.

Increasing awareness and education about primary prevention, public health risks and preventive health services are among actions OHA is taking as part of its 2024-2027 Strategic Plan.

The plan further supports expanding access to vaccines and other health resources for children, parents and families in all communities in Oregon. 

To learn more about viral hepatitis in Oregon, visit OHA’s webpage.

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Oregon Psilocybin Services Publishes Interactive Data Dashboard -06/12/25

June 12, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist,  PHD.Communications@oha.state.or.us

Oregon Psilocybin Services publishes interactive data dashboard

Data show 1,509 clients received services between January and April 2025, with six experiencing behavioral, medical or post-session reactions

PORTLAND, Ore.— Oregon Psilocybin Services (OPS) at Oregon Health Authority has published new data on a just-launched interactive online dashboard based on implementation of new legislation.

The OPS Data Dashboard includes data reported by licensed service centers in accordance with SB 303 (2023), now codified in Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 475A. See ORS 475A.372 and ORS 475A.374.

The dashboard contains multiple datasets that can be accessed on interactive pages related to safety, psilocybin product sales, licensing, compliance and demographic data. Each page includes an overview, a summary of data, methods and limitations, and data tables.

According to new data posted on the dashboard which became available following the passage of SB 303, a total of 1,509 clients received psilocybin services between January and April 2025. During that time, two clients experienced severe adverse behavioral reactions, three experienced adverse medical reactions, and one experienced post-session reactions.

Examples of other new data include client demographics such as the reasons for accessing services, county of residence, age and income level. Also included are the number of clients served, the number and type of administrative violations and the number and severity of adverse reactions.

For the complete list of available data, visit the OPS Data Dashboard.

Background:

The OPS Data Dashboard publishes available data on regulated psilocybin services in Oregon under the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act (ORS 475A). This data will be updated on a quarterly basis.

Senate Bill 303 and Data Collection Information: In 2023, the Oregon Legislature passed Senate Bill 303 (SB 303) which requires psilocybin service centers to collect and report this data beginning in 2025. In addition, SB 303 requires OPS to publish certain license and compliance data.

OPS Data Privacy and Security Fact Sheet: OPS prioritizes data privacy and security, ensuring accountability with OHA’s data standards before publishing on the OPS Data Dashboard.

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OHA Shares Summer Resources List For LGBTQIA2S+ Youth -06/12/25

June 12, 2025

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

OHA shares summer resources list for LGBTQIA2S+ youth

As school year ends, agency reaffirms support for queer young people

PORTLAND, Ore. — As the 2024-2025 school year wraps up statewide this week, Oregon Health Authority is sharing resources to promote well-being, safety, security and inclusion among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, two-spirit, questioning and (+) (LGBTQIA2S+) youth.

“We’ve shared this list of resources the last few years because young people in our state need to have access to resources that help them celebrate the diversity of their identities all year long, not just during the school year,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA.

Summer months can be a challenging time for queer youth and their families as many supports they have access to during the school year are no longer available. Since 2022, OHA has helped celebrate gender and sexual orientation diversity by highlighting resources available to LGBTQIA2S+ youth during summer.

June also happens to be Pride Month, Sidelinger noted, when OHA and its public health partners show support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth, families and organizations.

Communities, families and trusted adults play a critical role in supporting their LGBTQIA2S+ children’s well-being. When families promote self-esteem, overall health and strong, affirming relationships, they protect LGBTQIA2S+ young people against potential suicidal behavior, depression and substance use.

Many local, state and national resources are available for LGBTQIA2S+ youth and families to help them thrive all summer, and all year:

• The Oregon Youth Resource Map is designed to help young people ages 16-25 and their allies connect to youth-serving resources, organizations and leadership opportunities. The map centers youth needs and voices, and includes services for health and mental health care, housing, education and more.
• TransActive Gender Project at Lewis & Clark Graduate School works to empower transgender and gender-expansive children, youth and their families in living healthy lives free of discrimination through a range of services and expertise.
• PFLAG (formerly Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) offers quick tips to parents and caregivers for supporting their LGBTQIA2S+ children during the coming-out process. PFLAG also has eight chapters in Oregon, including in Eastern, Southern and Central Oregon and the Portland metro area.
• The Family Acceptance Project works to increase family and community support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth, decrease health and mental health risks, and promote well-being. An Oregon page also is available.
• The Trevor Project promotes suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ young people. Public education materials are available on its website, and it recently published the results of its 2023 National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People.
• Outside In (Portland) welcomes and encourages all from the LGBTQIA2S+ community to connect, feel seen and heard, and provides free resources such as counseling, medical services and wraparound support for homeless youth and other people that have been marginalized who meet diagnostic criteria. Call 503-535-3828.
• New Avenues for Youth’s Sexual & Gender Minority Youth Resource Center in downtown Portland provides culturally specific support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth. Also, its Youth Opportunity Center is open 24/7 for youth ages 9-17 in crisis or who need a safe place to stay. Drop-in hours are Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for youth ages 9-24. Call 971-754-4350.
• The Next Door provides youth outreach in schools, life skills training and mentoring programs such as Gorge Youth Mentoring. It supports a youth advisory council, gender-affirming locker rooms and, in partnership with Columbia Gorge Pride Alliance, promotes 30 Days of Gay events as part of Pride Month in June.
• Eastern Oregon Center for Independent Living (EOCIL) provides safe spaces, community building and empowerment for two-spirit and LGBTQIA+ populations, including people with and without disabilities, and allies in 13 Eastern Oregon counties. As one of the largest and oldest two-spirit and LGBTQIA+ service providers and employers in Eastern Oregon, EOCIL proudly serves the two-spirit and LGBTQIA+ communities of Baker, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Hood River, Malheur, Morrow, Sherman, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco and Wheeler counties.

OHA works with other state agencies, counties, Tribal nations, communities and advocacy groups across the state to ensure youth in Oregon have access to support and services, including offering links and contact information to help lines and other resources:

• The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7, is for people in any type of behavioral health crisis, such as mental health-related distress, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or substance use crisis. People can get help by calling 988, texting 988 or chatting online at 988lifeline.org.
• 988 offers specialized support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth under age 25 by calling 988 and pressing 3 or texting “Q” to 988.
• Oregon Alliance to Prevent Suicide is dedicated to preventing youth and young adults in Oregon from dying by suicide. Call 503-399-7201 for more information (not a crisis hotline).
• Oregon LGBTQ Support, from Oregon LGBTQ Youth & Family Resources, lists resources that focus on providing services and support to reduce mental health risks and promote well-being for LGBTQ young people.
• The YouthLine offers peer-to-peer help, support and crisis intervention for youth ages 10-24. Phone, text, and chat support are available where trained youth respond from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Pacific Time, every day of the year (Adults are available by phone at all other times).  
  • Call: 877-968-8491
  • Text: teen2teen to 839863
  • Chat: theyouthline.org 

Oregon State Hospital Receives CMS Statement Of Deficiencies -06/11/25

June 11, 2025

Contact: Amber Shoebridge, Amber.shoebridge@oha.oregon.gov, 503-931-9586

Oregon State Hospital receives CMS statement of deficiencies

(Salem, Ore.) – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon State Hospital (OSH) are responding to a statement of deficiencies from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), following an April survey.

The deficiencies identified in the report relate to the hospital’s policies and procedures around patients’ rights and the responsibilities of its governing body to ensure patients receive safe and appropriate care.

“This report is a clarion call for the need for the immediate changes being implemented now that will have impact to assure that patients at OSH are safe and receiving the care they need and deserve,” said OHA Deputy Director Dave Baden, who was named OSH acting superintendent on April 11. “Sustained and ongoing cultural changes at the hospital will take time. We need to improve our processes in support of not only patients in seclusion or high-risk patients, but every patient at OSH.”

The statement of deficiencies, which cites instances of system-level failures, comes after CMS surveyors visited OSH after placing the hospital in immediate jeopardy (IJ) which could have resulted in the hospital losing CMS participation eligibility. The hospital put in place corrective actions, which led to CMS lifting the IJ status on May 12, 2025.

Hospital staff have worked to implement crucial improvements to the care and monitoring of patients in seclusion and restraint as well as high-risk patients. Other changes include innovations like transitioning three patient units into psychiatric intensive care units in April to improve care and interventions.  

“The culture at OSH must change if we hope to ensure accountability and provide the highest quality of care for every person admitted to OSH. There is no other option,” said OHA Acting Director Kris Kautz.  

“Our PoC will include strategies from our stabilization plan; many of which have already been implemented,” Baden said. “Two key changes implemented in the past few weeks are designed to provide more support for unit staff and leaders who are responsible for the daily care of patients. That’s our pause on telework for patient-facing staff and managers and mandatory rounding or visits to units by OSH leaders. The goal is increased visibility and improved communication between leadership and staff, as well as patients.”

The stabilization plan was released on April 30. It includes strategies to improve patient daily care and safety specific to three objectives: to decrease the likelihood of sentinel events (events that can lead to harm, injury or death), to improve OSH’s function as a 24/7 hospital, and to provide staff with clearer direction and empowerment to keep patients safe. 

The statement of deficiencies can be found on the OSH website. The document has been redacted. As a medical provider and a HIPAA-covered entity, OSH is prohibited by federal and state privacy law from sharing a patient’s protected health information.

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Oregon To Get Lower-cost, Lifesaving Treatment To People With Rare And Severe Diseases -06/11/25

Oregon to get lower-cost, lifesaving treatment to people with rare and severe diseases