Respiratory illnesses

Respiratory illnesses like influenza, RSV and COVID-19 are spreading in Clark County and more people are getting sick and being hospitalized. By taking simple steps to prevent viruses from spreading, we can help keep ourselves, our loved ones and our community healthy this winter. 

The best way to protect yourself and others is to get vaccinated – and it’s not too late to get protected for the rest of the season. An annual influenza vaccine and the updated COVID-19 vaccine provide the best protection against illness and severe infections, including hospitalization and death. Search VaccineFinder.org for nearby vaccine locations. This year, a vaccine that protects against RSV is also available for older adults and pregnant people. Talk to your health care provider to learn more about the RSV vaccine.

We can also stop the spread of germs by washing hands often with soap and water, avoiding touching our eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands, covering coughs or sneezes, staying home when sick and avoiding close contact with sick people. While viruses are circulating, consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor places, especially if you or someone you live with is at higher risk for serious illness.

And you can better equip your body to help fight viruses by eating well, being physically active, getting enough sleep and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use. 

Visit the respiratory illnesses data webpage for the latest information about COVID-19, influenza and RSV activity in Clark County.

Access to Baby & Child Dentistry

Children younger than 6 who have Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) insurance qualify for the free Access to Baby & Child Dentistry (ABCD) program. The ABCD program supports free preventive dental care for children from birth to 6, as well as children 6-13 years old who have special health care needs. 

Each year, children in the ABCD program receive two dental exams, three fluoride varnish applications, two parent-education sessions and restorative care, as needed. 

Visit the ABCD program webpage to learn more.

Free battery disposal locations

Several retail stores across Clark County are now accepting a variety of batteries from Clark County households, including cell phones and rechargeable batteries, for safe disposal at no charge. 

Proper battery disposal helps prevent old batteries from ending up in the trash and protects our sanitation workers from fires. Batteries that end up inside garbage or recycling carts can explode, posing significant fire risks during transportation and at transfer stations. 

Find convenient battery drop-off locations by visiting the Household Hazardous Waste webpage or by downloading the RecycleRight app.

PFAS in public and private drinking water

Per– and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a large group of human-made chemicals used for decades in many products, such as water-resistant clothing, non-stick cookware, and cleaning products. When PFAS are made, used, disposed of, or spilled near water sources, like rivers, aquifers or wells, the chemicals can get into drinking water.

Scientists are still studying how PFAS affect people’s health. Some PFAS can build up in people’s bodies and, over time, may cause harmful health effects. Visit the PFAS in drinking water webpage to learn more.

 

Public records request

To request public records involving Public Health, please access the Public Records Request Portal, create an account and complete the submittal process.