Grow Stronger Together

Simple steps protect your lungs, your family, and your livelihood.

Urgent Updates

DOH + West Coast Health Alliance Statement

In Washington, our commitment to evidence-based public health has not changed. State immunization recommendations, aligned with the American Academy of Pediatrics, are based on decades of research showing vaccines are effective and essential for protecting health.

Thanks to high vaccination rates, children in the U.S. experience far fewer severe illnesses and hospitalizations than they would without these vaccines. We strongly encourage families to keep their children up to date on recommended vaccinations and to talk with trusted health care providers about any questions or concerns.

United States Measles Cases Updates

As of January 29, CDC reported 588 confirmed measles cases in 17 states in the first month of the year. South Carolina accounts for 427 of the 2026 cases (73%). Since its outbreak began in October 2025, South Carolina reported 847 measles cases. The South Carolina outbreak also spread into North Carolina, which reported 15 measles cases, including one hospitalization, since late December.

Influenza increasing day by day

Respiratory illness visits and influenza hospitalizations are escalating across most of the country, with activity “expected to continue for several weeks,” according to surveillance data released Monday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Washington State vaccination rate for flu this season is at 24.7% with Benton County being 18.2% and Franklin County is at 13.7%. There is still time to get a flu vaccine this season. Please reach out to your local pharmacy and providers office to receive this vaccine.

A Word from our Health officer

Welcome to Stay in the Loop. This is a message from our local health officer Dr Steve Krager.

Protect Against These Common Respiratory Illnesses

Vaccines help protect against common respiratory illnesses that can impact your health, your family, and your ability to work. Learn more about each illness and how to stay protected.

Resources

COVID-19

COVID can cause serious illness in people of all ages, especially those with underlying conditions.

RSV

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that can be dangerous for infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

Influenza (Flu)

Influenza (Flu) spreads quickly and can lead to missed work, hospitalization, or worse, especially during peak season.

Whooping Cough

Whooping Cough (Pertussis) causes intense coughing fits and is especially dangerous for babies and those who haven’t been vaccinated.

Stay Protected with the Right Vaccines

Vaccines are one of the simplest, most effective ways to protect your health and the health of those around you. Whether you’re heading into a new school year, starting a new job, or caring for family, staying up to date on immunizations helps prevent serious illness at every stage of life.

Vaccine Information What Vaccines Have I Gotten?

About the Stay in The Loop Campaign

Stay In The Loop is a community health campaign focused on prevention, protection, and empowerment.

Created by Benton-Franklin Health District, the campaign aims to make it easier for individuals and families to access trusted information about immunizations and respiratory illness prevention. From vaccine guidance to everyday health habits, Stay In The Loop offers simple, actionable resources to help you make informed choices, and protect the people who count on you.