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COVID-19 vaccines
Clark County Public Health and Washington State Department of Health continue to recommend that everyone 6 months and older, including pregnant people, stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccination to protect against severe illness, hospitalization and death. This guidance is in alignment with trusted national medical associations including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the American Academy of Family Physicians.
To help increase access for people who want to get vaccinated, Washington State Department of Health issued a standing order for COVID-19 vaccines. The standing order acts like a prescription and allows physicians, pharmacists, medical assistants, and other qualified health care providers to give COVID-16 vaccines to people 6 months and older, including pregnant people. Standing orders are not directives and do not require anyone to receive the vaccine.
While some health care providers have already received the 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccine, other providers are still waiting to receive supplies of the updated vaccine, which may limit appointments. Check with your health care provider or pharmacy to see when they expect to have vaccine available.
COVID-19 vaccines continue to be covered by most private insurers, Apple Health (Medicaid), and Washington’s Adult Vaccine and Childhood Vaccine Programs. Check with your insurance provider if you have questions about COVID-19 vaccine coverage and cost.
For more information, see the state Department of Health's COVID-19 Vaccine Standing Order and frequently asked questions about the standing order.
Water quality monitoring at Clark County waterbodies
Before visiting a local lake, be sure to check for water quality advisories. Public Health monitors water quality at local waterbodies throughout the summer to determine if the water is safe for swimming and recreation.
Public Health collects water samples from swim beaches at Vancouver Lake, Klineline Pond and Battle Ground Lake to test for bacteria that can make people sick. Public Health also monitors swim beaches and other local waterbodies for harmful algal blooms that can pose a health risk to people and can be fatal to pets.
Public Health will issue advisories if bacteria levels exceed state thresholds or toxin levels are elevated from algal blooms. Visit the Current advisories webpage for the latest advisory information.
Benthic algae mats
Benthic algae mats have been identified along the shoreline of the Columbia River in Clark County. The mats can contain toxins that can make people and pets sick and can be fatal to pets.
Typically, benthic algae mats are attached to the lakebed or riverbed, but the mats can detach and float on the surface of the water or wash ashore. If algae mat material is present, people and pets should avoid contact with the algae and the water.
Locations where possible benthic algae mats have been identified are available on the Current advisories webpage.
Bat season is here
Bats are the primary animal that carries rabies in Washington. Spring and summer are when bats are most active. People may find bats in their living spaces.
Never touch a bat with bare hands. People who think they may have been bitten, scratched, or had direct contact with a bat should close the doors and windows to the room where the bat is located. Then call Clark County Public Health.
Visit the Animal bites and rabies webpage to learn more.
Back to school
Parents can help to keep their children healthy and ready to learn this school year by ensuring they’re up to date on their routine vaccinations.
Vaccines works with children’s natural defenses to help them develop protection against serious and preventable diseases, like measles and whooping cough.
Some childhood vaccines are required before children can attend school, preschool or child care. Talk to your child’s health care provider or use MyIR Mobile to make sure your child is up to date on their vaccines and protected for the new school year.
Wildfire smoke
Breathing smoke from wildfires isn’t healthy for anyone. But some people, such as children, older adults, pregnant people and people with heart and lung conditions, are more likely to have health problems when the air quality isn’t good.
Visit the Smoke from wildfires webpage to learn more about how wildfire impacts health, how to prepare for smoky days, and steps to take to protect your health when the air is smoky.
Portable air cleaners with HEPA filters can improve indoor air quality. But, if you’re looking for a cheaper option, consider making your own box fan filter
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