Public Health Advisory Board Accepting Applications - 09/23/26

September 23, 2026

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

Public Health Advisory Board accepting applications

What: The Office of Governor Tina Kotek and Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) Public Health Division are seeking applicants for two positions on the state Public Health Advisory Board (PHAB).

• An expert in health equity
• An individual who represents a community-based organization serving an urban community

When: Due to the timing of application review, interviews and the Governor’s appointment process, the term for this position is scheduled to begin Jan. 1, 2027. The end dates for the positions vary, but terms may last a total of four years with the option to renew for a second term. Board members are appointed by the Governor.

About: Oregon's Public Health Advisory Board (PHAB) is a committee of the Oregon Health Policy Board (OHPB) focused on public health Oregon Revised Statutes: Chapter 431. It serves as an advisory body to the OHPB and OHA, with its recommendations most directly informing the OHA Public Health Division (PHD), to guide public health policy and priorities across the state, helping to ensure recommendations are grounded in community need and equitable practices.

PHAB is a 21-member board representing different parts of Oregon's public health system including local public health administrators, community-based organizations, tribal representatives, healthcare partners (CCO/non-CCO), academic partners, health equity and metrics experts and a member-at-large.

Time Commitment: PHAB meets on the second Thursday of each month from 3 - 5:30 p.m. PST. Members are expected to join at least one subcommittee or workgroup during their term. Most meetings are held virtually, with an in-person only retreat each year and the possibility of additional hybrid sessions. PHAB members are eligible for travel reimbursement.

Please consider the time and responsibilities required of members before you apply - contact PHAB staff if you have any questions or concerns.

For information and materials from previous PHAB meetings, visit the board’s website at http://www.healthoregon.org/phab.

Under Oregon Revised Statutes 292.495, board members may qualify to receive compensation for their service.

How to apply: If you are interested, complete the electronic application process by Oct. 23, 2026, at this link: https://oregon.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/Boards/job/Oregon-Public-Health-Advisory-Board---Board-Member_REQ-192980

Applicants must provide:

• A resume
• A short personal biography
• A brief statement of interest, specifying the position sought by the applicant
• A brief statement on how the board can address equity
• A brief statement on the applicant’s understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion

Background: Learn about the application process at this link: https://www.oregon.gov/gov/Pages/board-list.aspx.

Those unable to complete the form electronically should contact the Executive Appointments Office at executive.appointments@oregon.gov for assistance.

Support Services: Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services.

OHA provides free help.

Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

1. Sign language and spoken language interpreters
2. CART (live captions)
3. Written materials in other languages
4. Braille
5. Large print
6. Audio and other formats

Contact: Requests for help, information and questions can be sent to Veronica Herrera at 503-979-8498, PublicHealth.Policy@odhsoha.oregon.gov or 711 TTY.

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OHA Statement: Agency Not Moving Forward With Proposed Fee Increases For Psilocybin Licensees - 09/22/26

Recreational Use Advisory Issued For Powder Arm Of Brownlee Reservoir Sept. 21 - 09/21/26

September 21, 2026

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

Recreational use advisory issued for Powder Arm of Brownlee Reservoir Sept. 21

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Powder Arm of Brownlee Reservoir due to the presence of a cyanotoxins above Recreational Use Value (RUVs).

A recreational use health precaution has been in place since July 14 due to the presence of cyanotoxins. The waterbody is in Baker County.

People should avoid swimming and other water activities with a high risk of swallowing water or inhaling water droplets in areas lake where blooms are present. Ingestion or inhalation of water is the exposure route of concern. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA’s RUVs are designed to protect the most vulnerable, including children, who have a higher activity level and are more likely to swallow water while recreating.

OHA encourages people to visit Powder Arm of Brownlee Reservoir and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, and motorized or non-motorized boating activities that have a low risk of swallowing or inhaling water droplets.

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 swallowing 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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Reminder: Virtual Media Briefing Today On Federal Changes - 09/21/26

September 21, 2026

Media Contact: Amy Bacher, amy.bacher2@oha.oregon.gov

Reminder: virtual media briefing today on federal changes

OHA will hold a media briefing today to outline federal changes and answer related questions

SALEM, OR – Beginning this month, about 600,000 Oregon Health Plan members will begin receiving notices about upcoming changes to the Oregon Health Plan (OHP / Medicaid). These updates are required under new federal mandates outlined in House Resolution 1, also known as HR1 or the Big Beautiful Bill, which states must follow to maintain federal funding.

One of the first changes will take effect January 1, 2027, when new work or activity rules begin for certain OHP members ages 19 to 64. While most adults with OHP who can work already do, some will need to provide documentation when they apply for or renew coverage once the rules are in place.

The notices going out this month are informational only and no action is required yet; however, OHA is urging members to keep their contact information up to date, so they don’t miss these notices or future updates. Members can do that by:

• Going to benefits.oregon.gov
• Calling 1-800-699-9075 (all relay calls welcome),
• Downloading the ONE mobile app, or
• Visiting a local Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) office

Community partners are encouraged to help spread the word about upcoming changes by sharing flyers, social media posts, and information available at: https://ohp.oregon.gov/toolkit.

Media are invited to an OHA virtual briefing today

OHA leaders will brief the media and answer questions about upcoming federal changes during a virtual session. Details about the briefing:

Date: Monday, September 21, 2026

Time: 11:00am – 11:30am

Location: Virtual, via Zoom

Meeting ID: 165 737 0403, Passcode: 932201, +16692545252,,1657370403#

Community partners can view the briefing via YouTube.

Oregon Prepares Medicaid Members For New Federal Rules, Calls On Community Partners To Help Keep People Covered - 09/18/26

September 18, 2026

Media Contact: Amy Bacher, amy.bacher2@oha.oregon.gov

Oregon prepares Medicaid members for new federal rules, calls on community partners to help keep people covered

OHA will hold a media briefing on Sept. 21 to outline federal changes and answer related questions

SALEM, OR – Beginning this month, about 600,000 Oregon Health Plan members will begin receiving notices about upcoming changes to the Oregon Health Plan (OHP / Medicaid). These updates are required under new federal mandates outlined in House Resolution 1, also known as HR1 or the Big Beautiful Bill, which states must follow to maintain federal funding.

One of the first changes will take effect January 1, 2027, when new work or activity rules begin for certain OHP members ages 19 to 64. While most adults with OHP who can work already do, some will need to provide documentation when they apply for or renew coverage once the rules are in place.

The notices going out this month are informational only and no action is required yet; however, OHA is urging members to keep their contact information up to date, so they don’t miss these notices or future updates. Members can do that by:

• Going to benefits.oregon.gov
• Calling 1-800-699-9075 (all relay calls welcome),
• Downloading the ONE mobile app, or
• Visiting a local Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) office

Community partners are encouraged to help spread the word about upcoming changes by sharing flyers, social media posts, and information available at: https://ohp.oregon.gov/toolkit.

Media are invited to an OHA virtual briefing on Monday, Sept. 21

OHA leaders will brief the media and answer questions about upcoming federal changes during a virtual session. Details about the briefing:

Date: Monday, September 21, 2026

Time: 11:00am – 11:30am

Location: Virtual, via Zoom

Meeting ID: 165 737 0403, Passcode: 932201, +16692545252,,1657370403#

Community partners can view the briefing via YouTube.
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OSH Junction City Apple Orchard Rooted In Community - 09/18/26

September 18, 2026

Media contact: Marsha Sills, marsha.sills@oha.oregon.gov, 971-240-3344

OSH Junction City apple orchard rooted in community

JUNCTION CITY – The small apple orchard planted on Oregon State Hospital (OSH) grounds more than a decade ago continues to bear fruit for the community with the recent harvest of around 5,000 pounds of apples to help support families in Lane County.

Patients and staff led the picking of the crop while local volunteers with Fern Ridge Connection Gleaners completed the harvest in a separate event. The harvest was split between Food for Lane County (FFLC) and the gleaners group, which serves about 140 families in the Fern Ridge and Veneta area.

“Food for Lane County has been our partner from the beginning – and they provide meaningful opportunities for our patients through their volunteer programs,” said Tom Anhalt, OSH Chief Experience Officer and Junction City Administrator.  “It takes coordination to make the harvest and patient engagement in the community to happen, and I’m grateful to our OSH staff for creating and strengthening these community relationships so our patients can grow and develop skills that will help them as they leave the hospital.” 

Michael and David were among a small group of OSH patients who helped with this year’s harvest.

“Coming out here, being able to be a part of the community – still even within these walls – is a good opportunity,” said Michael. 

David added, “I think everybody should give of their time.” 

FFLC helped fund and plant more than 200 dwarf Liberty and Empire trees when the Junction City campus opened in 2015. Three years later, patients, staff and community volunteers joined together for the first harvest. While the picking events have evolved into separate events for OSH patients and staff with volunteer groups completing the picking of the crop, the harvest remains rooted in community connection.

As FFLC’s food resource developer, Kara Smith connects partners – any food business, including farms and organizations like gleaner groups – with the food bank’s mission of feeding the hungry in the community.  

“Every little bit helps,” Kara Smith said. “We’re feeding right around 80,000 individuals every month in Lane County. Everything helps. Every piece is part of the big puzzle that helps to make sure our community has access to food. We’re grateful for the partnership and it’s awesome to see the collaboration from various parts of our community.” 

The OSH Junction City campus serves people who were admitted by the courts under a guilty except for insanity order – meaning the courts decided their mental illness was a factor in their crime. Staff begin working with patients at admission on a discharge plan that often includes volunteerism and engagement to help them prepare to reintegrate into the community. 

OSH Associate Director of Social Work Travis Smith (left) worked with community partners to ensure the harvest supported local families. OSH Treatment Services supported staff supported the event for patients like Jonathan (right) who wanted to give back to the community.

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Recreational Use Advisory Issued For Cullaby Lake Sept. 17 - 09/17/26

September 17, 2026

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

Recreational use advisory issued for Cullaby Lake Sept. 17

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Cullaby Lake due to the presence of a cyanotoxins above recreational use values (RUVs). The lake is in Clatsop County.

People should avoid swimming and other water activities with a high risk of swallowing water or inhaling water droplets in areas of the lake where blooms are present. Ingestion or inhalation of water is the exposure route of concern. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA’s RUVs are designed to protect the most vulnerable, including children, who have a higher activity level and are more likely to swallow water while recreating.

OHA encourages people to visit Cullaby Lake and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, and motorized or non-motorized boating activities that have a low risk of swallowing or inhaling water droplets.

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 swallowing 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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OHA Accepting Comment On Proposed Changes To Health Database - 09/15/26

September 15, 2026

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

OHA accepting comment on proposed changes to health database

Recreational Use Advisory Lifted For Thief Valley Reservoir - 09/11/26

September 11, 2026

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Thief Valley Reservoir

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

OHA issued the advisory July 2.

Water monitoring has confirmed that water levels are too low for regular recreational use.

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, 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 Downgraded To A Precaution For Agency Lake - 09/10/26

September 10, 2026

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

Recreational use advisory downgraded to a precaution for Agency Lake

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has downgraded the recreational use health advisory to a precaution for Agency Lake in Klamath County.

OHA issued the advisory July 1.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Agency Lake are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from areas with blooms.

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 the signs of a bloom, and exposure routes 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 such as swimming or motorized or non-motorized boating activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, 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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New Facility Expands Secure Inpatient Behavioral Health Care Capacity For Oregon Youth By A Third - 09/08/26

September 8, 2026

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

New facility expands secure inpatient behavioral health care capacity for Oregon youth by a third

EUGENE, Ore. -Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has partnered with Nexus Family Healing to open a new 12-bed secure inpatient treatment facility in Eugene, significantly increasing Oregon’s capacity to serve youth who need care.

The facility expands Oregon’s capacity of secure inpatient program (SIP) beds for youth by roughly one third. The 12 new beds build the state’s total SIP beds for youth to 44, adding to the 20 beds in Corvallis, for youth 10-17, and the 12 beds in Portland, for youth 5-11.  

Youth who need this setting will have had treatment at lower levels of care and need more intensive services and support. The average stay at this level of care is six to nine months.

"Expanding Oregon’s secure residential infrastructure is vital to ensuring that young people with complex behavioral health challenges receive the right level of care in a safe, therapeutic environment," said Jessie Eagan, OHA child and family behavioral health manager.

The Nexus project is among a wave of new facilities for youth behavioral health treatment statewide that started in 2024 and will continue through 2027.

OHA invested $6.8 million for the development of two private residential treatment facilities (PRTF) for youth through House Bill 5024 (2021):

• Madrona Recovery Center Inc., Washington County, 18 beds, $2.2 million, completed in February 2024.
• Community Counseling Solutions, Morrow County, 14 beds, $4.6 million, anticipated to open in October or November 2027.

Two additional facilities for youth are in development:

• Looking Glass is receiving a total of $11.5 million from OHA to complete projects in Lane County for youth. Of that total, $5.2 million from House Bill 5025 (2025) and $1.5 million from House Bill 5030 (2025) is for the development of a 12-bed SIP facility. The remaining funds will help move and renovate their youth Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Network (BHRN) program. Anticipated completion is July 2027.
• Live. Grow. Share. is receiving $2.1 million from House Bill 5030 (2025) for the development of a 10-bed children's psychiatric residential treatment home. Anticipated project completion is December 2028.

Oregon will exceed its goal for a total of 268 youth psychiatric treatment facility beds in 2026 and expects to reach a total of 311 by December 2027. This increased capacity provides more timely and appropriate help and support to youth who need psychiatric residential treatment.

The Nexus project was funded through a $3 million grant as part of House Bill 5024 (2021).

“The opening of this campus is a testament to the dedication of the many individuals who worked tirelessly to bring this project to life,” said Toni Miller, executive director at Nexus. “For the youth we serve, healing requires more than treatment alone. Every aspect of this environment was intentionally designed to support healing, learning, growth, and long-term stability. This campus reflects our commitment to partnering with the state to restore hope and help reshape the futures of Oregon’s youth.”

Like other SIP programs, access to the Nexus facility will be managed by OHA. Nexus began accepting youth ages 10-17 on Sept. 2.

The increase in youth behavioral health capacity is happening at a time when the adult system is also experiencing significant growth, adding 1,660 licensed residential treatment beds to Oregon's continuum of care – a more than 45% increase in capacity. Of those, 1,067 are already open and serving Oregonians today, with 593 more scheduled to open within the next two and a half years. The state was the primary investor in 960 of the beds.

About Nexus

Nexus Family Healing operates specialized residential and community-based mental health services for youth and families in Portland and Eugene.

About OHA

Oregon Health Authority works to improve the lifelong health and well-being of all people in Oregon by expanding access to quality health care, strengthening behavioral health services, advancing public health, and reducing health inequities.

For behavioral health resources and information on OHA’s child and family initiatives, visit https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HSD/BH-Child-Family/Pages/index.aspx

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Siletz Bay Health Advisory Lifted Sept. 4 - 09/04/26

September 4, 2026

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

Siletz Bay health advisory lifted Sept. 4

PORTLAND, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today lifted a public health advisory for contact with ocean water at Siletz Bay, located in Lincoln County.

The health authority issued the advisory Sept. 3, after water samples showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters.

Results from follow-up tests taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) showed lower bacteria levels. Contact with the ocean water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk. Officials recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.

Since 2003, state officials have used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies participating in this program are OHA, DEQ and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

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Oceanside Beach Health Advisory Lifted Sept. 4 - 09/04/26

September 4, 2026

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

Oceanside Beach health advisory lifted Sept. 4

PORTLAND, Ore.—The health authority issued the advisory Sept. 2, after water samples showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters.

Results from follow-up tests taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) showed lower bacteria levels. Contact with the ocean water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk. Officials recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.

Since 2003, state officials have used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies participating in this program are OHA, DEQ and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

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OHA Issues Standing Order For updated COVID-19 vaccines enabling Broad Pharmacy Access - 09/04/26

OHA issues standing order for updated COVID-19 vaccines enabling broad pharmacy access

Order aligns with West Coast Health Alliance recommendations, allows providers to administer vaccines for 2026-2027 respiratory virus season

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority has issued a standing order that will allow vaccine providers statewide to begin administering updated COVID-19 vaccines as soon as this weekend.

Oregon’s COVID-19 vaccine standing order, issued today and signed by Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA, aligns with similar protocols in the other three states of the West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA)—Washington, California and Hawaii.

Oregon’s standing order is based on data for those at highest risk for severe outcomes, including recommending COVID-19 vaccination for children younger than 2, adults 65 and older, people of any age with underlying medical conditions, pregnant individuals, previously unvaccinated children, those living in congregate settings, and health care workers. The standing order also recommends COVID-19 vaccines be available to all who choose them—including those between ages 2 and 65—as they have been in previous respiratory virus seasons.

The announcement about the standing order follows West Coast Health Alliance recommendations for the 2026-2027 respiratory virus season. These recommendations are informed by trusted national medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and viewablehere.

Immunization is the best protection available against respiratory viruses such as COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Seasonal immunization is also a critical public health tool to reduce serious illness including hospitalization and death, community transmission, and health care systems strain.

“We are delighted that anyone who wants protection can get the COVID-19 vaccine starting this weekend,” Sidelinger said. “I join my public health colleagues in the other West Coast Health Alliance member states in celebrating this important step toward ensuring our communities are well prepared for the 2026-2027 respiratory virus season.”

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

About West Coast Health Alliance

The West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA) is a partnership between California, Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington to ensure that public health recommendations are guided by safety, efficacy, transparency, access and trust. For more information, visit Oregon’s WCHA page.

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New Facility Expands Secure Residential Behavioral Health Bed Capacity In Multnomah County - 09/04/26

September 4, 2026  

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

New facility expands secure residential behavioral health bed capacity in Multnomah County

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Mill Beach Health Advisory Lifted Sept. 4 - 09/04/26

September 4, 2026

Media contacts: Erica Heartquist PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Mill Beach health advisory lifted Sept. 4

PORTLAND, Ore.  - Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today lifted a public health advisory for contact with ocean water at Mill Beach, located in Curry County.

The health authority issued the advisory Sept. 3, after water samples showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters.

Results from follow-up tests taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) showed lower bacteria levels. Contact with the ocean water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk. Officials recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.

Since 2003, state officials have used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria. Oregon state agencies participating in this program are OHA, DEQ and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

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Siletz Bay Health Advisory Issued Sept. 3 - 09/03/26

September 3, 2026

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

Siletz Bay health advisory issued Sept. 3

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 Siletz Bay 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 Siletz Bay, 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).

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Mill Beach Health Advisory Issued Sept. 3 - 09/03/26

September 3, 2026

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

Mill Beach health advisory issued Sept. 3

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 Mill Beach in Curry 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 Mill 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).

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Kaiser Permanente Mt. Talbert Medical Office Is Latest Measles Exposure Location - 09/02/26

September 2, 2026

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

Kaiser Permanente Mt. Talbert Medical Office is latest measles exposure location

Health officials recommend those who were at location during times, dates consider vaccination if not immune

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Clackamas County health officials are warning the public about a location where people may have been exposed to measles.

People might have been exposed if they were at the following location at this date and time:

• Kaiser Permanente Mt. Talbert Medical Office, first floor, 10100 SE Sunnyside Road, Clackamas, between 10:31 a.m. and 6:07 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29.

People who were at this location during this date and time should check their vaccination records and monitor for signs and symptoms of measles. People born after 1957 who have not had measles and have not been vaccinated against measles should receive an MMR vaccine as soon as possible.

Early administration of MMR should be considered for infants as it offers protection during this time that measles is circulating in Oregon. The first dose of MMR may be given as early as 6–12 months old. Children who receive their first dose of MMR prior to 12 months of age should receive two additional doses separated by at least 28 days after 12 months of age. As the number of measles cases rises, people may reconsider their vaccination decisions and discuss them with their medical providers to make sure they and their family members are adequately protected.

Families without a primary care provider can establish care at any of Multnomah County's seven primary care clinics or nine student health centers (based at high schools but open to anyone ages 5-18) by calling 503-988-5558 to make a new patient appointment. Clackamas County residents can schedule an appointment with a Clackamas County Health Center. 

Facts about measles

Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles also can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area.

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication.

Measles can be dangerous, especially among infants and children younger than 5 years old, adults older than 20 years, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. In developed countries in recent years, one to three out of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal. The measles vaccine is highly effective at providing protection, as two doses of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles. The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are up to date on their vaccines is very low.

What to do if you suspect measles in your household

Public health officials urge people experiencing symptoms of measles not to arrive unannounced at a medical office if they:

1. Have a measles-like rash, or
2. Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, AND have any other symptom of measles (such as fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes).

Individuals planning to seek medical care should first call a health care provider or urgent care center by telephone to create an entry plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.

Learn more about measles on OHA’s website.

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Oceanside Beach Health Advisory Issued Sept. 2 - 09/02/26

September 2, 2026

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

Oceanside Beach health advisory issued Sept. 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 Oceanside Beach in Tillamook 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 Oceanside 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).

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Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center, Randall Children's Hospital Are Latest Measles Exposure Locations - 09/01/26

September 1, 2026

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

Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center, Randall Children's Hospital are latest measles exposure locations

Health officials recommend those who were at location during times, dates consider vaccination if not immune

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Multnomah County health officials are warning the public about a location where people may have been exposed to measles.

People might have been exposed if they were at the following locations at these dates and times:

• Randall Children’s Primary Care Clinic, 501 N. Graham St., Suite 250, Legacy Emanuel Medical Center, Medical Office Building 2, Portland, between 1:20 p.m. and 4:11 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 25.
• Randall Children’s Hospital Emergency Department waiting room, 2801 N. Gantenbein Ave., Portland, between 3:21 p.m. and 5:23 p.m., Friday, Aug. 28.
• Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center emergency room waiting room and department, 24800 SE Stark St., Gresham, between 10:04 a.m. and 1:49 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 30.

People who were at these locations during these dates and times should check their vaccination records and monitor for signs and symptoms of measles. People born after 1957 who have not had measles and have not been vaccinated against measles should receive an MMR vaccine as soon as possible.

Families without a primary care provider can establish care at any of Multnomah County's seven primary care clinics or nine student health centers (based at high schools but open to anyone ages 5-18) by calling 503-988-5558 to make a new patient appointment.

Facts about measles

Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles also can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area.

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication.

Measles can be dangerous, especially among infants and children younger than 5 years old, adults older than 20 years, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. In developed countries in recent years, one to three out of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal.

The measles vaccine is highly effective at providing protection, as two doses of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles. The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are up to date on their vaccines is very low.

What to do if you suspect measles in your household

Public health officials urge people experiencing symptoms of measles not to arrive unannounced at a medical office if they:

1. Have a measles-like rash, or
2. Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, AND

 have any other symptom of measles (such as fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes).

Individuals planning to seek medical care should first call a health care provider or urgent care center by telephone to create an entry plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.

Learn more about measles on OHA’s website.

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Recreational Use Advisory Issued For Eckman Lake August 28 - 08/28/26

August 28, 2026

Media contact: Larry Bingham, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Eckman Lake August 28

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Eckman Lake due to the presence of a cyanotoxins above Recreational Use Value (RUVs). The lake is in Lincoln County.

People should avoid swimming and other water activities with a high risk of swallowing water or inhaling water droplets in areas of the river, lake or reservoir where blooms are present. Ingestion or inhalation of water is the concern because toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA’s RUVs are designed to protect the most vulnerable, including children, who have a higher activity level and are more likely to swallow water while recreating.

OHA encourages people to visit Eckman Lake and enjoy activities such as camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, and motorized or non-motorized boating activities that have a low risk of swallowing or inhaling water droplets.

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 swallowing 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.

‘Friends For Life’ Aims To Prevent Overdoses Among Oregon Youth, Young Adults - 08/27/26

August 26, 2026

Media contacts:

• Erica Heartquist, Oregon Health Authority, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

• Liz Merah, Oregon Department of Education, Liz.Merah@ode.oregon.gov

‘Friends for Life’ aims to prevent overdoses among Oregon youth, young adults

New statewide resources give students, families and schools tools to prevent and respond to overdoses

PORTLAND, Ore.—As students return to high school and college, Oregon and Washington state public health and education leaders are encouraging young people and their loved ones to look out for one another through Friends for Life, a new overdose prevention effort focused on teens and young adults ages 13 to 25.

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE), in partnership with the Washington State Health Care Authority, are bringing resources to Oregon to help young people and families talk about fentanyl and other drugs, prevent overdoses, recognize the signs of an overdose and use naloxone.

“Young people want to be there for their friends, so we need to equip young people and the adults in their lives to talk openly about drugs, mental health and supporting each other,” said Tom Jeanne, M.D., MPH, deputy state health officer and deputy epidemiologist at OHA. “With Friends for Life, we’re recognizing the importance of relationships to keep our communities safe and healthy.”

The campaign offers practical, youth-focused resources in English and Spanish at www.orfriendsforlife.com, including information on fentanyl, fake pills, overdose prevention, naloxone, treatment and recovery.

“Our schools play an essential role in helping students build the knowledge, skills and trusted relationships they need to make healthy, informed decisions,” said ODE Director Charlene Williams. “By partnering with families, communities and public health leaders, we can give young people tools to recognize risks, support one another, and know what to do in an emergency.”

Why it matters

Oregon’s overdose deaths have declined over the past two years, reaching a four-year low in 2025. But fentanyl and methamphetamine remain major drivers of overdose deaths, with more than 90% of reported overdose deaths involving fentanyl, methamphetamine or both.

Young people ages 24 and younger accounted for 4% of Oregon’s overdose deaths in 2024. Although youth and young adults represent a small percentage of overdose deaths in Oregon, preventing substance use early in life dramatically reduces future risk of substance use disorder and other related health outcomes. Fifty-nine youth and young adults died from drug overdoses that year, down from 106 in 2023.

Importantly, more than half of youth overdose events involved someone else being present, meaning a friend, family member or other bystander may have been able to call 911 and administer naloxone.

Resources for schools, families and communities

Friends for Life includes:

• A free toolkit for schools and community organizations with materials in seven languages, including posters, wallet cards, rack cards and social media content.
• Technical assistance to help schools and community partners adapt the campaign for their communities.

Oregon’s Friends for Life campaign is supported by federal funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“We hope Friends for Life can help us take care of each other by preventing addiction and drug use before it starts, as well as giving people the tools to stay safe,” Jeanne said.

Learn more and access resources at www.orfriendsforlife.com.

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