OHA To Revisit New Pool Rule Requiring Adults Accompany Kids Under 14 - 06/09/26

June 9, 2026

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

OHA to revisit new pool rule requiring adults accompany kids under 14

Agency to convene additional public process and ‘recommend’ rather than ‘require’ age limit this season

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority is revisiting a new pool rule requiring children younger than 14 to be accompanied by adults at general-use public swimming pools during open swim periods.

OHA will adopt a temporary rule to require public pools post a sign with the message that OHA recommends children under 14 be accompanied by an adult. The agency will convene a public process this fall to hear input from parents, caregivers, public pool operators, lifeguards, regulators and other interested parties to inform a decision about making that rule permanent or adopting a different rule.

“After hearing from parents and caregivers of older elementary and early middle school-age children, the Food, Pool and Lodging Health and Safety Program is proposing additional discussion with the community and regulated partners to gather more input, ensure equitable access to public pools and continue to keep kids safe,” said Gabriela Goldfarb, manager of OHA’s Environmental Public Health Section.

OHA will be notifying all pool operators and local health inspectors that the agency is initiating a temporary rule adoption to amend the signage language.

The update to the state’s Aquatic Facility Rules, which were processed through a Rule Advisory Committee (RAC), were formally adopted April 1, 2025. The current language states that “Children under the age of 14 years must have direct supervision by a person aged 18 years or older.” The upcoming temporary rule will require a sign stating, “OHA recommends children under the age of 14 years have direct supervision by a person aged 18 years or older.”

For the rule adopted in 2025, OHA and the RAC selected an age limit to align with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Model Aquatic Health Code (MAHC), which serves as the primary national framework for aquatic safety. This limit was based on national data from CDC, which has consistently shown deaths in swimming pools are high through age 13, then drop starting at 14. That same CDC data show drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children ages 5-14.

Additionally, even though the RAC agreed unanimously with the proposal to require those 13 and younger be accompanied by an adult at public pools, the extensive rulemaking process included a broad range of more technical issues, such as pool equipment and chemistry.

“Given the technical nature of most of the rules, OHA typically gets participation from pool facility operators and builders, and not the community members using the pool,” Goldfarb noted. “Going forward, when CDC updates its model codes, we’ll work to identify proposed changes that need community conversations to find the right path for Oregon.”

Those interested in participating in a workgroup for this issue in the fall can email pool.safety@oha.oregon.gov to be considered. Diverse representation for the discussion is welcomed. 

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Nye Beach Health Advisory Issued June 9 - 06/09/26

June 9, 2026

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

Nye Beach health advisory issued June 9

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 Updates Guidance For Youth Outdoor Activities During Wildfire Smoke, Air Pollution Events - 06/08/26

June 8, 2026

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

OHA updates guidance for youth outdoor activities during wildfire smoke, air pollution events

Changes reflect increasing evidence of smoke’s harm to children

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority is publishing updated guidance to help families and youth-serving organizations, such as schools and athletic leagues, make decisions about participation in outdoor activities during wildfire smoke and other air pollution events.

The update to the Oregon Air Quality Guide for Children and Youth reflects the increasing scientific evidence that smoke can harm the health of children at lower levels of exposure than previously thought. All children and youth 18 and younger are considered a population sensitive to smoke. Particles in the air measuring less than 2.5 microns, known as PM2.5, can penetrate deep into the lungs and travel through the bloodstream, causing damage throughout the body.

“We fully recognize the importance of outdoor time and exercise for the physical and mental health of children and youth,” said Gabriela Goldfarb, manager of the Environmental Public Health Section at OHA’s Public Health Division. “We offer this guide to support adults making decisions that balance those needs with the reality that children are more likely to be affected by health threats from smoke, because their airways are still developing and because they breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults.”

The guide relies on the familiar air quality index (AQI). PM2.5 is one of the key pollutants tracked by the AQI. AQI categories range from “Good” through “Hazardous” using colors and numbers to communicate risk. The main changes from OHA’s previous guide are:

• At Moderate AQI (yellow, AQI 51-100), the updated guide encourages caution for youth with health conditions during short and medium duration activities, and all youth during activities lasting four or more hours. The prior guide stated, “It’s a good day to be active outside” for short duration activities.
• At Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (orange, AQI 101-150), OHA recommends limiting activity intensity for all youth at any activity duration and considering canceling or moving the event if intensity and length of the activity can’t be changed. The previous guide focused on the most sensitive youth with underlying health conditions.

• Unhealthy, Very Unhealthy, or Hazardous (red, purple and maroon, any AQI above 150) now has the same guidance at any activity duration: Cancel outdoor activities or move to an area with safer air quality for all children and youth. Previously, that level of health protection was reserved for Very unhealthy or Hazardous at any activity duration.

• OHA removed “Infants” from the title of the guide. The guide still applies to everyone under 18, but most of the guide is designed for kids who are over 2 years of age.
• Medium length activity duration changed to one to four hours, instead of one to two hours.
• The guide emphasizes that exposure can occur during transit, such as walking to school or riding on buses with open windows and advises decision makers to consider total exposure over a day when estimating duration of exposure, if possible.

See the guide for additional changes.

For organizations that wish to make the guide available online, OHA recommends linking directly to Oregon Air Quality Guide for Children and Youth (https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served//le8815H.pdf) rather than attaching a pdf version. Using this evergreen link ensures access to the most current version of the guide.

The guide and other resources about wildfires and health are available at healthoregon.org/wildfires. The guide is also available in Spanish (Guía de actividades sobre la calidad del aire en Oregon para niños y jóvenes or  https://sharedsystems.dhsoha.state.or.us/DHSForms/Served/ls8815h.pdf).

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CORRECTION: As Summer Begins, OHA Connects LGBTQIA2S+ Youth, Families With Support Across Oregon - 06/05/26

CORRECTION: Some resources have been discontinued and have been removed from this version of the release.

June 5, 2026

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

As summer begins, OHA connects LGBTQIA2S+ youth, families with support across Oregon

Resources help young people stay connected, supported and safe when school-based services are less accessible

PORTLAND, Ore. — As students across Oregon head into summer break and many school-based support systems pause, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is encouraging LGBTQIA2S+ youth and their families to stay connected to resources that promote mental health, belonging, safety and well-being.

"Every young person deserves to feel safe, supported and valued for who they are," said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA. "For many LGBTQIA2S+ youth, school provides important connections to trusted adults, peers and affirming services."

Just in time for Pride Month, the statewide and local resources are designed to help lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, two-spirit, questioning and other LGBTQIA2S+ young people thrive year-round.

"We want young people and their families to know that support doesn't end when the school year does,” Sidelinger added. “Resources and caring communities remain available across Oregon."

Since 2022, OHA has helped celebrate gender and sexual orientation diversity by highlighting resources available to LGBTQIA2S+ youth during summer.

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.

Here are some of the local, state and national resources available:

• 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 to live 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. Education materials are available on its
• New Avenues for Youth's Sexual & Gender Minority Youth Resource Center in downtown Portland provides culturally specific support for LGBTQIA2S+ youth. 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.
• The Living Room provides support to GLBTQQ (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning) youth in Clackamas County through drop-in activities, events, school support and community education. It believes all youth deserve a safe place to be themselves, be supported, and be comfortable and accepted in their own skin.
• Transponder is a transgender-founded and led nonprofit based in Eugene, providing support, resources, and education for the transgender and gender-diverse community and their allies. Its mission is to foster healthy communities through wellness programs, support meetings, socials, and special events; trans-inclusive resources; and training and consultation services to improve the lives and outcomes of LGBTQIA2S people, emphasizing trans and gender-diverse Oregonians.
• Rainbow Youth creates safe and welcoming spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth and their friends to find connection, support, and friendship. It promotes sexuality and gender acceptance (SAGA) through weekly gatherings, social activities and individual support.
• Sankofa Collective (formerly PFLAG Portland Black Chapter) is a home for Portland’s Black LGBTQ community. Its mission is to bring together communities so that people living at the intersections of these important identities are free to be their full selves.
• The Marie Equi Center works to enrich the health of the trans, queer, intersex and gender-diverse communities through trauma-informed care, culturally affirming services and social justice advocacy.
• Rogue Trans is a grassroots nonprofit led by and for transgender people that is committed to fostering community and support for transgender, non-binary and gender-diverse individuals. It is committed to building affirming spaces, fostering community connection, and connecting individuals with vital resources and support to empower trans lives and promote acceptance.
• 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.

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 or the Spanish option here.

  • 988 Oregon is a state specific program that is available in English and Spanish.

• Oregon Alliance to Prevent Suicide is dedicated to preventing youth and young adults in Oregon from dying by suicide.
• 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 

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Oregon Law Expands ‘tobacco Products’ Definition To Prevent Underage Sales, Youth Nicotine Addiction - 06/03/26

Editors: Find video clips of Sarah Wylie discussing SB 1571 on OHA’s Media Resources page.

June 3, 2026

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

Oregon law expands ‘tobacco products’ definition to prevent underage sales, youth nicotine addiction

Oral nicotine pouches, lozenges, other emerging nicotine products included under Oregon’s tobacco regulations starting June 5

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is reminding Oregon’s 3,700 tobacco retailers that a new state law expanding the definition of tobacco products takes effect June 5.

People must be 21 to purchase tobacco products and inhalant delivery systems in Oregon and nationwide. Senate Bill 1571, signed into law in March, expands the state’s definition of tobacco products to include oral nicotine pouches, lozenges, gum and other nicotine products, regardless of whether they are naturally or synthetically made.

Nicotine pouches are the fastest-growing product on the U.S. tobacco market. In 2024, oral nicotine pouches became the second most commonly used tobacco product among U.S. middle and high school students.

The revision brings Oregon’s tobacco regulations in line with federal law to reduce youth access to addictive nicotine products, many of which are sold in flavors marketed as cool mint, citrus burst, refreshing chill and wild berry. A national study showed that 80% of youth who ever used a tobacco product started with a flavored product.

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Oregon, accounting for 8,000 deaths annually. Sarah Wylie, manager of the Oregon Tobacco Retail License Program at OHA's Public Health Division, said “SB 1571 is a significant step in responding to the shifting tobacco retail landscape and the emergence of new and addictive nicotine products.”

“As the tobacco industry continues to introduce these products designed to appeal to new consumers, public health policies must evolve to keep pace and ensure communities are protected from emerging health risks,” Wylie said.  

Between January and July 2025, OHA’s Tobacco Prevention and Education Program conducted a statewide tobacco retail assessment to examine tobacco availability, advertising, marketing and promotion across 1,147 Oregon retail outlets, including convenience stores, gas stations and grocery stores, among others.

The assessment found that 65% of tobacco retailers offered price promotions, including 43% promoting oral nicotine products. One product, Zyn, had the lowest advertised price of any tobacco or nicotine product assessed, averaging just $5.60. The low cost is especially concerning as oral nicotine pouches continue to grow in popularity among youth, who are often the most price-sensitive consumers.

The new law takes important steps toward reducing youth nicotine addiction and reducing tobacco-driven health inequities. Nearly 90% of people who smoke start before they turn 18, and teenagers’ developing brains are vulnerable to the highly addictive nicotine in tobacco products.

Moving forward, oral nicotine products will be regulated similarly to cigarettes and inhalant delivery systems, such as e-cigarettes or vapes.

OHA encourages Oregon tobacco retailers to review age verification and ID-checking procedures with employees to ensure compliance with the updated law before it takes effect. OHA and local public health authorities will continue to conduct undercover compliance checks, which now include enforcement of the updated law.

Retailers are urged to visit OHA's website for tobacco retailers for a training manual, fact sheets, compliance checklists and other educational resources to help them stay in compliance with Oregon tobacco sales laws. For questions about OHA compliance inspections and enforcement, visit healthoregon.org/tobaccoretailsales, email Tobacco.Inspections@odhsoha.oregon.gov, or call: 971-673-2283.

Quitting tobacco makes a difference – and quitting is different for everyone. That’s why there are a variety of free options across Oregon to help you succeed.

• You can get free counseling with a Quit Coach and Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) sent to your door at no cost:
  • Texting “Ready” (English) or “Listo” (Spanish) to 21586
  • Calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW or 1-855-DEJELO-YA (Spanish)
  • Visiting the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line at quitnow.net/oregon
  • Downloading the free “Quit for Life” app on your mobile device
• You can ask your local pharmacist if they offer counseling and treatment on site. Pharmacists that offer counseling and treatment on site will work with you to build a personalized treatment plan and provide follow-up to see how the treatment plan works.
• You can also learn how to quit in your own way, with or without the help of a coach or pharmacist, by visiting https://smokefreeoregon.com/im-ready-to-quit.

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OHA, Local Public Health Monitoring Passenger Exposed To Andes Virus - 06/02/26

June 2, 2026

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

OHA, local public health monitoring passenger exposed to Andes virus

Individual was aboard outbreak-stricken MV Hondius cruise ship

PORTLAND, Ore.—Public health officials are monitoring an Oregon resident after their return this week from a Nebraska quarantine facility, where the individual stayed after disembarking from the cruise ship MV Hondius.

The resident, who has asked for privacy, arrived home in Oregon June 1 and will remain in quarantine through June 21—42 days following their return to the United States on May 10.

Since May 10, the Oregon resident has been at the National Quarantine Unit (NQU) at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. The resident was transported to the facility after disembarking with other U.S. passengers from the MV Hondius in Spain following an outbreak of the Andes strain of hantavirus aboard the cruise ship, which departed Ushuaia, Argentina, April 1.

Oregon Health Authority has collaborated closely with federal and local partners, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local public health authorities, on the response to the Andes virus outbreak. This has included implementing guidelines for the safe return of any Oregon passenger to the state.

OHA reminds people that the risk of infection with Andes virus in Oregon remains extremely low and there are no concerns of transmission to the general public.

CDC has published Interim Guidance for Public Health Assessment and Management of People with Potential Exposure to Andes Virus to support monitoring of individuals with exposure to the Andes virus on the MV Hondius cruise.

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Recreational Use Advisory Issued For Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge - 05/28/26

May 28, 2026

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

Recreational use advisory issued for Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

PORTLAND, Ore.— Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge due to the presence of a cyanotoxins above recreational use value. The wildlife refuge is in Klamath County.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the wildlife refuge where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion or inhalation 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 Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy activities such as fishing, bird watching and canoeing. 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 for drinking and cooking.

Symptoms for people, pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size, level of activity, and likelihood of ingesting water.

For people, exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramps, 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 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 crusts along the shore. This is regardless of whether a recreational use health advisory in place. Symptoms in dogs can include difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, and loss of appetite, and more.  If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible. OHA recommends keeping dogs on leashes, away from affected water and mat material, to help reduce the chance of exposure.

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, where toxins are more likely to build up, before cooking or freezing. 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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Vaccination Rates For Oregon Students Reach New Low; Nonmedical Exemptions At New High - 05/28/26

May 28, 2026

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

Vaccination rates for Oregon students reach new low; nonmedical exemptions at new high

Most families choose to vaccinate children, but more than a third of Oregon schools at risk of measles outbreak

PORTLAND, Ore.—State health officials urge parents and guardians to check their school’s vaccination rate to help families understand the local risk of a disease outbreak, especially for children who are not up to date on the MMR vaccine for measles.

Parents and caregivers can see vaccination rates for individual schools on OHA’s School Immunization Data dashboard.

Kindergarteners and nonmedical exemptions

For the 2025-2026 school year, Oregon’s rate of nonmedical exemptions for required school vaccines for kindergarteners has climbed to a record high of 10.9%—up from 6.9% in the 2021-2022 school year.

Only 85.6% of kindergarteners were up to date on required vaccines, according to data, continuing an overall downward trend that began a decade ago. The steepest decline happened during the last four years—a 3-percentage point drop since the 2021-2022 school year, when the rate was 88.4%.

“Although the vast majority of families in Oregon are still choosing to protect families through vaccination, the downward trends are deeply concerning,” said Howard Chiou, M.D., PhD., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division. “We risk seeing the return of diseases such as measles and polio—diseases of the past that once caused widespread harm but are entirely preventable with vaccines.”

The vaccine with the highest rate of kindergarten nonmedical exemptions is the second dose of the measles vaccine (MMR) at 9.4%, up from 4.9% 10 years ago, a 92% jump. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in the world, and the best way to prevent infection is to get vaccinated.

The vaccine with the second highest rate of kindergarten nonmedical exemptions is the DTaP vaccine, which protects against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough). Pertussis rates in Oregon hit a 75-year high in 2025—1,475 cases.

Pertussis and measles cases have also risen to record highs in the past year nationally.

K-12 students

While the majority of K-12 students statewide, 90.2%, is up to date on required vaccinations, pockets of risk remain in individual schools. These pockets of risk at schools exist in all 36 counties in Oregon.

“Even when overall vaccination rates are high at the state or county level, that can sometimes hide significant risk at an individual school, so parents should not assume their local schools will also be well protected,” Chiou said. “We encourage families to look at the immunization rates for their child’s school to better understand personal and community risks.”

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 92% to 94% of the population needs to be immune to measles, through vaccination or previous infection, to prevent or limit the spread of infections in a community. Chiou says Oregon’s public health system strives for a 93% vaccination rate to achieve herd immunity.

Currently, more than one in three (36%) Oregon schools with 10 or more students in grades K-12 report MMR vaccination rates under 93% and are therefore at high risk of a measles outbreak.

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Governor Kotek Secures Additional Funding To Help Stabilize Maternity Care In Rural Communities - 05/28/26

May 28, 2026

Contact: Kristen Lambert, Kristen.lambert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-271-1347

Governor Kotek secures additional funding to help stabilize maternity care in rural communities

New federal funding will bolster state investment, strengthen labor and delivery services across 21 rural hospitals serving families in 17 counties

SALEM, Ore. — Governor Tina Kotek, Oregon Health Authority (OHA), and the Hospital Association of Oregon, announced today that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approved Oregon’s proposed state directed payment to strengthen and stabilize maternity care services in rural communities. By matching state funding secured by Governor Kotek , these approved federal funds will result in a total investment of up to $37.5 million for 21 rural hospitals that provide maternity services for some of Oregon’s most remote communities. For rural hospitals, many of which will navigate reductions in Medicaid funding due to H.R. 1, these payments will help provide additional staffing and essential medical equipment, sustain and create good paying jobs and invest in strategies that improve overall quality of care of maternity services, such as supporting community outreach to pregnant Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members.

"I fought for these funds in my budget to stabilize services in Oregon because rural communities deserve reliable, high quality maternity care close to home,” Governor Kotek said. “The Trump Administration’s cuts to Medicaid will make rural maternity care harder to sustain and I applaud the work by the agency to maximize state dollars to support Oregon providers. I appreciate this partnership from hospital leaders who participated in conversations with my office to devise how these funds will be spent, and our continued partnership as we work together to improve access to care where it’s needed most.”

The directed payment is part of a one-time $25 million investment authorized by the Legislature in House Bill 5025 (2025). The coordinated effort is led by Governor Kotek with OHA and the Hospital Association of Oregon to strengthen maternity services. Roughly half of all births in the state are covered by OHP, and Medicaid funding changes have already begun to impact rural healthcare providers in Oregon and across the country.  

“CMS’s approval enables us to support rural hospitals at a moment when maternity services are under tremendous pressure,” said Dr. Sejal Hathi, Director of OHA. “OHA worked hard to secure this funding because rural families and communities cannot wait as healthcare costs rise and labor and delivery units close. These funds will help reinforce essential care for expecting OHP members while also strengthening services for entire communities. As we implement this directed payment, OHA remains committed to bolstering the full continuum of maternity care and closing longstanding gaps—so that families can access the safe, high-quality care they need throughout pregnancy and beyond.”

At a time when Oregon’s rural hospitals are increasingly impacted by federal policy changes, these payments are designed to stabilize maternity services, strengthen access to care, and create good paying jobs in communities with limited resources. The funding aims to ensure safe, reliable services for OHP members. The investments are expected to improve access to prenatal and postpartum care, reduce preventable complications, and promote more equitable maternal health outcomes across rural Oregon.

“Oregon's rural hospitals face mounting financial and workforce challenges in sustaining the maternity services families rely on,” said Becky Hultberg, president and CEO of the Hospital Association of Oregon. “CMS’s approval was a critical step in releasing funds to rural hospitals, providing much-needed support to help protect access to maternity care in rural Oregon. This investment highlights what can be achieved when state leaders, hospitals, and our partners work together to protect care in communities.”

There is no application process for rural hospitals. Rural hospitals that currently offer maternity services will automatically receive payments. OHA is working with CCOs and rural hospitals to coordinate a payment schedule.

Investments Aimed at Stabilizing Care and Expanding Access

These efforts are part of a broader statewide strategy to strengthen maternity care. In 2025, the Governor requested and the Legislature authorized a one-time $25 million investment to support, stabilize, improve and expand rural maternity hospital services. Governor Kotek directed OHA to distribute the funds in a targeted approach based on input from impacted hospitals. In addition to the CMS‑approved directed payment, OHA increased the 2026 maternity care rates for larger hospitals that are paid by coordinated care organizations (CCOs) through diagnosis-related group (DRG) rates.

Rural hospitals may use the funds to strengthen maternity services and improve quality of care for OHP members, including: 

• Hiring or retaining maternity care staff
• Upgrading or purchasing clinical equipment
• Expanding outreach, navigation, or perinatal support for OHP members

Below is a list of rural hospitals that will receive direct payment (in alphabetical order by county):

In counties such as Malheur County — where more than half of residents are enrolled in OHP — improvements to maternity services often benefit the broader community. While activities like outreach may focus specifically on OHP members, other investments, such as equipment upgrades or additional staffing, enhance care for all patients.

In addition to the directed payment, OHA is continuing to strengthen the full continuum of maternity care by expanding access to doulas and lactation counselors, implementing a community-based access program to support culturally specific and geographically diverse perinatal service providers, and prioritizing maternal and child health through the Rural Health Transformation Program. OHA recognizes that maternity care extends far beyond hospital services—from prenatal visits and labor and delivery to postpartum supports, home visiting, and lactation services—and is working across this entire continuum to close gaps and improve equitable access to care for families in every community. 

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Every day, in multiple ways, the Oregon Health Authority supports individuals, communities, and partners across the state so that all families can thrive. OHA is further supporting rural hospitals by providing a total of $35 million in federal Rural Health Transformation Program funding this year. While most rural hospitals are eligible to receive $963,000 each through this opportunity, three larger rural hospitals with more than 50 beds can each receive nearly $1.4 million. This direct funding is designed to help rural Oregon improve access to critical services during a time of tremendous change and challenge in healthcare. On May 7, OHA announced which hospitals are eligible for this federal funding and how much each hospital can receive. For more details, please refer to the Rural Health Transformation Program newsletter.

New Roadmap Lays Out How To Help Youth With Complex Needs Thrive - 05/27/26

May 27, 2026

Contact: Franny White, OHA Communications, franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971-349-3539 

New roadmap lays out how to help youth with complex needs thrive

System of Care Advisory Council implementing 2026-2029 Strategic Plan

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon’s System of Care Advisory Council (SOCAC) is working to implement actionable strategies described in its new strategic plan to help youth with complex, unmet behavioral health or intellectual and developmental disabilities needs be safe, well and thrive.

Having more youth receive treatment and services at their homes or in their communities, increasing the high school completion rate for system-involved youth, reducing suicide attempts among youth, and decreasing substance use disorder in youth are among the key goals outlined in SOCAC’s 2026-2029 Strategic Plan.

“We are determined to ensure Oregon’s youth can thrive despite many challenges,” said SOCAC Executive Director Anna K. Williams. “To help make that happen, the System of Care Advisory Council is putting its new strategic plan into action statewide.”

For example, SOCAC is prioritizing making it easier for caregivers to access temporary, short-term respite and improving school-based services for students with disabilities. The council is also improving its support of local systems of care that address barriers across the state. And in addition to improving access to community-based supports and services, the strategic plan prioritizes access to high-acuity treatment and services for youth with multiple diagnoses.

The Oregon Legislature established SOCAC in 2019 to provide oversight for, and facilitate coordination between, the state agencies and community partners that provide behavioral, foster and other forms of care for Oregon youth with complex needs. SOCAC partners directly with youth, their families and other individuals as well as organizations involved in education, juvenile justice and more.

Co-developed with youth and families, SOCAC’s new strategic plan lays out small, but meaningful steps for the council to take during the next three years. The plan prioritizes four broad goals: 

• Improve access to coordinated, integrated and community-based systems of care
• Promote the co-creation of equitable policy and systems by providers and the youth and families they serve
• Create sustainable infrastructure that increases the systems of care’s capacity and credibility
• Transform the systems that serve children, youth and families

SOCAC is an independent state council with 29 members who are appointed by the governor. It partners with the following state agencies: Oregon Health Authority, Oregon Department of Human Services, Oregon Department of Education and Oregon Youth Authority. More information is at the SOCAC website and its fact sheet. People who are interested in contributing to SOCAC’s efforts are encouraged to email statewide.soc@oha.oregon.gov.

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OHA Kicks Off 2026 Oregon Beach Monitoring Season - 05/15/26

May 15, 2026

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

OHA kicks off 2026 Oregon beach monitoring season

Agency shares safety tips for coastal beach visitors

Editors: A media kit with videos of Linda Novitski, Ph.D., recreational waters specialist at OHA, discussing beach monitoring, is available on our media resources webpage. You can also watch a video about Oregon’s beach monitoring effort on our YouTube channel.

PORTLAND, Ore.—The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program is kicking off the 2026 beach monitoring season, a joint effort between Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality that monitors about two dozen of Oregon’s most used beaches for fecal bacteria between May and September.

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

Through the Beach Monitoring Program, DEQ regularly samples marine water and freshwater at 25 beaches along Oregon’s 360 miles of coastline between May and September. To protect public health, OHA issues advisories at beaches where bacteria levels in marine waters are high.

The following Oregon beaches are being monitored during 2026, including beach name, and the city and county in which they are located:

• Seaside Beach – Seaside, Clatsop County
• Cannon Beach – Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
• Tolovana Beach State Park– Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
• Short Sand Beach (Oswald West State Park) – Arch Cape, Tillamook County
• Manzanita Beach – Manzanita, Tillamook County
• Rockaway Beach – Rockaway, Tillamook County
• Twin Rocks Beach – Twin Rocks, Tillamook County
• Oceanside Beach – Oceanside, Tillamook County
• Cape Kiwanda Beach – Pacific City, Tillamook County
• Neskowin Beach – Neskowin, Tillamook County
• D River Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Siletz Bay Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Beverly Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Agate Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Nye Beach – Newport, Lincoln City
• Ona Beach (Brian Booth-Beaver Creek State Park) – Seal Rock, Lincoln City
• Roads End Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Seal Rock Beach – Seal Rock, Lincoln County
• Heceta Beach – Florence, Lane County
• Bastendorff Beach – Coos Bay, Coos County
• Sunset Bay State Park Beach – Coos Bay, Coos County
• Hubbard Creek Beach – Port Orford, Curry County
• Harris Beach State Park – Brookings, Curry County
• Mill Beach – Brookings, Curry County
• Crissey Fields State Recreation Site – Brookings, Curry County

Monitored locations include beaches where the Beach Monitoring Program has found bacteria in the past, or beaches for which local partners and the public have requested monitoring due to potential pollution concerns.

When visiting the Oregon Coast, the Beach Monitoring Program encourages visitors to remember the following tips to protect :

• Check for advisories before you head to the beach.
• If a beach is under advisory:
  • Avoid swimming and swallowing ocean water.
  • Avoid swimming 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 can be higher in these types of water sources.
  • Shower after playing at the beach.
  • Wash your hands before eating or drinking.
  • Enjoy activities such as picnicking, beach walking and kite flying.

Note: Beach advisories are only issued for beaches that are actively being monitored within the May to Sept. sampling window. However, 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 no advisory is in effect, avoid swimming in the ocean within 48 hours after a rainstorm.

For more information and current beach monitoring conditions please visit: www.healthoregon.org/beach, or contact the Beach Monitoring Program at Beach.Health@oha.oregon.gov or 1-877-290-6767.

Clinic In Clackamas County Is Latest Measles Exposure Location - 05/15/26

Opioid Settlement Board Allocated $90 Million For Prevention, Treatment, Recovery Services Across Oregon - 05/14/26

May 14, 2026

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

Opioid Settlement Board allocated $90 million for prevention, treatment, recovery services across Oregon

What you should know: 

• The Oregon Opioid Settlement Prevention, Treatment and Recovery Board allocated more than $90 million over the past two years to support substance use and recovery services and supports.
• Thirty percent—more than $27 million—went to the Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon.
• Eighty-one Oregon cities and counties received more than $71 million.

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Oregon Opioid Settlement Prevention, Treatment and Recovery Board (OSPTR) has allocated more than $90 million statewide for substance use prevention, treatment and recovery services and supports statewide over the last two years, according to a new report that details spending in 2024-2025.

“These investments will create lasting, positive change in Oregon's prevention, treatment and recovery systems, supporting vital programs for those impacted by the overdose and substance use disorder crisis,” said OSPTR Co-Chair Annaliese Dolph. “Together, we are seizing a historic opportunity to build and strengthen high-impact initiatives that reach those who need them most.”

During the 2023–2025 biennium, from July 2023 to June 2025, the OSPTR Board allocated 30% of the state portion of opioid settlement funds— $27.7 million—to the Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon.

A total of 81 cities and counties received 55% of Oregon’s opioid settlement funds. Local jurisdictions spent the funds primarily on supporting people in treatment and recovery (29%) and connecting people who need help to care (26%).

The OSPTR Board funds have paid for a range of care around the state, including:

• $14.3 million to expand existing Oregon opioid treatment programs in high-needs areas, including The Dalles, Klamath Falls, Redmond, Oregon City, Gresham, NE Oregon, rural Linn County, East Lane County, Florence and the North Coast, and for training and technical assistance to jails to improve access to medications for opioid use disorder.
• $13.7 million for the Save Lives Oregon Clearinghouse to distribute naloxone and other life-saving supplies to organizations statewide.
• $13.7 million to support primary prevention programs—those that help prevent substance use before it starts—through counties and community-based organizations, and to replenish and strengthen the statewide substance use disorder prevention workforce.
• $13 million to establish new recovery community centers in Coos Bay, Roseburg, Grants Pass and in the Gorge, and for expansions of existing recovery community centers in Klamath Falls, Portland and Medford, with a focus on expanding access to culturally specific services across the state.

About the OSPTR Board

Since July 2021, the State of Oregon has reached agreements several companies for their roles in the opioid crisis. Through these agreements, more than $700 million will be awarded to Oregon by 2039.

Settlement funds from opioid manufacturers, distributors and pharmacies are divided between the State of Oregon (45%) and local jurisdictions (55%).

The state’s share is deposited into the Opioid Settlement, Prevention, Treatment and Recovery Fund as it becomes available. This fund is controlled by the 18-member OSPTR Board. OHA provides administrative support to the fund and board.

To learn more about Oregon’s opioid settlement funds, visit oregon.gov/opioidsettlement.

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New Bend Recovery Center Expands Support For Young Adults In Recovery - 05/14/26

May 14, 2026

Media Contact: Amber Shoebridge, 503-931-9586

New Bend recovery center expands support for young adults in recovery

BEND, Ore.— Community and state officials recently joined local partners to celebrate the opening of a new center that will expand recovery resources and provide a welcoming space for peer connection, mentoring and youth-focused activities in Central Oregon.

4D Recovery celebrated the opening of its new Recovery Community Center, at 1841 NE Lytle Street, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“This opening highlights the important work happening across Oregon to provide more help for people who are struggling,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “Peer services are critical to the continuum of care, and I’m excited for Central Oregon to have this new support for their community.”

The center will provide peer-led recovery support services and programming for young adults navigating substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges. The Behavioral Health Resource Network (BHRN) program, based in Oregon Health Authority’s Behavioral Health Division, awarded 4D Recovery in Bend approximately $2 million over four years.

Abbey Stamp, executive director of the Behavioral Health Resource Networks, emphasized the importance of community-based recovery services and peer support for young people in recovery during the event.

“Recovery happens in community,” Stamp said. “Creating spaces where young people can access support, build connections and feel a sense of belonging is critical to long-term recovery and well-being.”

4D Recovery is a peer-led recovery organization that serves young adults through recovery community centers, peer mentoring, recovery housing and other support services in Oregon and Washington.

"Our Deschutes County ribbon cutting had a strong turnout, with a great mix of community partners, representatives, and local leaders in attendance,” said Gabrie Ward, 4D Recovery Deschutes County Community Center Manager. “One of the standout moments was hearing from the speakers, who highlighted the importance of community, collaboration and continued support for young people and the work being done."

The organization will host another ribbon cutting ceremony next week for its Young Adult Recovery Center in Medford.

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Oregon Overdose Deaths Declined In 2024, 2025 - 05/13/26

May 13, 2026 

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

Oregon overdose deaths declined in 2024, 2025

New data show fewer fentanyl overdoses, but continued strain on emergency services

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon’s overdose deaths have decreased over the past two years, according to provisional federal data and a new report released by Oregon Health Authority (OHA).

Preliminary data show there were around 1,100 deaths in 2025, representing a continued downward trend, although the total is likely to increase slightly as more data from 2025 is processed. A total of 1,544 people died of a drug overdose in 2024, down from 1,833 in 2023.

The decline marks the first year-over-year decline since 2016, according to a legislatively mandated report on the ongoing statewide overdose crisis.

“This improvement is the result of deep partnerships between state agencies, behavioral health providers, local officials and law enforcement and shows what is possible when all of us work together,” Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek said. “We have to stay on track. Together, we can save the lives of our neighbors, friends and family members.” 

John W. Mcllveen, Ph.D., Oregon’s State Opioid Treatment Authority, said that while all overdose deaths are tragic, and historically underserved communities and populations still bear the brunt of the opioid crisis, the data show Oregon’s investments in prevention, treatment and harm reduction are helping save lives.

“But with fentanyl and methamphetamine still involved in most deaths, continued collaboration is critical to sustaining this progress,” he said, noting that more than 90% of the reported overdose deaths involved fentanyl, methamphetamine or some combination of both.

There were 4,193 in-patient overdose-related hospitalizations, and 10,365 overdose-related emergency room visits in 2024, according to the report. Those totals do not account for overdoses that are reversed in the community, using opioid-reversing medications such as naloxone.

In 2024, 62.2% of Oregon overdose deaths involved multiple substances (polysubstance), with the majority (70%) of polysubstance overdose deaths involving fentanyl and methamphetamine.

Addressing this issue requires a cross-agency, multisector response to simultaneously address factors contributing to substance use and overdose.

Some investments contributing to Oregon’s decrease in overdoses include:

• Funding the Save Lives Oregon Harm Reduction Clearinghouse, which partners with community-based and front-line organizations to provide direct services to people experiencing fentanyl addiction and other substance use issues.
• Expanding investments in opioid treatment programs and services throughout the state.

• Funding Behavioral Health Regional Networks (BHRNs). This statewide network of services and supports, available in every Oregon county, serves people with substance use disorders regardless of their ability to pay.
• Funding prevention programs and peer services and supports around the state.

“The sustained decline in overdose deaths is encouraging to see, but we still have a long way to go,” said Tom Jeanne, M.D., MPH, deputy state health officer and deputy state epidemiologist at OHA. “Continued investment by the state and community partners across the full spectrum of prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery is needed to keep overdoses on a downward trajectory.”

You can see Jeanne’s complete interview here.

Ways to save lives in your community:

• Learn how to administer naloxone with this Save Lives Oregon video
• Connect with your regional overdose prevention coordinator to learn about local overdose prevention activities and resources.
• Find more overdose and prevention resources on OHA’s website.

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