Whooping cough cases in Washington state might hit 2,000 by end of 2024 So far this year, close to 2,000 cases have been reported in Washington state, compared to just 78 at the same time last year. This year’s total is the highest since 2012. KUOW Staff
Bird flu scrambled Western Washington egg market for the holidays, and good luck finding eggnog If you’ve visited your neighborhood grocery store over the holiday season, you might have noticed a lack of the usual variety of egg selection and higher prices for the few options that remain. Stephen Howie
New online dashboard tracks weather-related health incidents in Washington state The Department of Health has launched a public dashboard tracking weather-related health incidents using data reported by hospitals across the state. The aim is to help residents and agencies make smarter, more timely decisions when it comes to severe weather. KUOW Staff
How brain-mapping research by Seattle scientists could help prevent Alzheimer's Research by a group of Seattle scientists may help doctors and drug companies target specific brain cells to help people keep their minds sharp as they age. KUOW Staff
Oysters recalled in Washington and Oregon over potential norovirus contamination The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is recalling oysters harvested from Puget Sound in December, citing possible norovirus contamination. It’s one of several recalls to impact the Pacific Northwest’s shellfish supply in the past month. KUOW Staff
Washington's tribes want Medicaid to cover traditional healing When Washington’s legislative session kicks off next week, lawmakers will take up the issue of traditional Native American medicine. Eilís O'Neill
Role reversal: Avian flu makes birds a menace to cats Scientists and volunteers with the Olympic Cougar Project said they have the opportunity now to study bird flu in wild animals – to hopefully prevent it from spreading to people. Casey Martin John Ryan Play AudioListen 4 mins
Avian flu is driving up egg prices, but this Seattle diner manages to keep its famous omelets on the menu Beth’s Café, a diner in North Seattle, is known for its 12-egg omelets. But at a time when avian flu is driving up the cost of their key ingredient, that may seem a little egg-cessive. Ruby de Luna
Washington's hospital system is financially 'fragile' despite improvements For the first time in four years, financial losses at hospitals across Washington state are slowing down. Noel Gasca
Seattle Children's halts gender-affirming surgeries after executive order threatens loss of federal funds After three years on the wait list, Children’s canceled the 16-year-old's surgery hours before it was scheduled. "Losing eligibility would jeopardize care for our patients across the region," Children’s explained. Ann Dornfeld