News
Proposal: Expansion of the Board of Health
The current Skagit County Board of Health is composed of the three elected Skagit County Commissioners. This Board of County Commissioners is scheduled to consider adding a new Skagit County Code Chapter 12.01, which will expand by Ordinance the Board of Health to add two additional at-large members if approved. [more] [comment form]
VAPING ILLNESS ALERT
State Board of Health passes emergency ban on flavored vapor products
The rule takes effect on October 10, 2019 and lasts for 120 days. [more]
Cases of severe lung disease associated with vaping devices/e-cigarette products continue to rise in the nation and in Washington State.
Seek medical care if you use vaping products and experience symptoms of coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea or fatigue.
While all cases reported nationally have a history of using vaping devices, no specific product or substance has been identified that is causing the illnesses. The healthiest option is to not smoke or vape.
The latest information on the vaping illness outbreak is available from the Washington State Department of Health.
 Public Health Biennial Report 2017-2018
Marine biotoxin levels have decreased in areas of Skagit County allowing some harvest areas to re-open partially or fully.
BEFORE YOU DIG CHECK FOR REMAINING CLOSURES
Alcohol use remains at an all-time low while vaping use increases among Skagit County youth
Aerosols from nicotine-containing vapor products contain nicotine and potentially harmful chemicals. [more]
Septic system repair or replacement loan program now available!
Pilot needle pickup program kicked off countywide
Used needles can pose a public health hazard.
[more]
Blue green algae blooms
As Skagit County lakes heat up with the season they may be more likely to have blue green algae blooms. Blue green algae can produce toxins that can make people and animals sick. People and pets should stay away from water that has intense color and scum, like spilled paint. Recreate where lake water appears clear and clean. More information on blue green algae can be found at www.nwtoxicalgae.org .
Opioid Workgroup
A public health crisis has hit our nation and our local community. Opioid-related deaths have now surpassed motor vehicle crashes as the leading cause of accidental death. Learn more.
What else is new at Skagit County Public Health:
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