Active Public Health Outbreaks in Washington State
Report generated on November 30, 2025
CRITICAL ALERT Avian Influenza (Bird Flu): First Global H5N5 Death
In a significant epidemiological development as of late November 2025, Washington State has recorded the first known human death globally attributed to the H5N5 strain of avian influenza. The patient, an older adult from Grays Harbor County with underlying health conditions, died on November 21, 2025. This case is distinct from the H5N1 outbreaks seen earlier in poultry and dairy workers.
Official Risk Assessment
The CDC and Washington State Department of Health (DOH) maintain that the immediate risk to the general public remains low. Investigations indicate the patient had direct exposure to a backyard poultry flock. No evidence of human-to-human transmission has been detected among close contacts or healthcare workers.
Expert Concerns & Viewpoints
Contrasting the official "low risk" stance, virologists and pandemic experts express heightened concern regarding the novelty of the H5N5 strain in humans. The severity of the outcome (death) in the index case raises urgency to rule out mutations that could facilitate transmission. Experts warn that every novel human infection increases the statistical probability of the virus adapting for pandemic potential.
| Strain | Recent WA Impact | Primary Vector | Status (Nov 2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| H5N5 | 1 Human Death (Grays Harbor) | Backyard Poultry | Active Investigation |
| H5N1 | Multiple Poultry Worker Cases | Commercial Poultry/Dairy | Ongoing Surveillance |
Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Surge
Washington is experiencing a multi-year surge in Pertussis cases, with 2024 and 2025 numbers far exceeding pre-pandemic baselines. Following a 25-fold increase in cases in 2024 (2,293 cases), high transmission rates have persisted into 2025. The outbreak claimed the life of a child under five in late 2024, the state's first pertussis death since 2011.
Case Count Comparison
*2025 data preliminary as of May report
Contributing Factors & Debate
- Vaccination Gaps: Kindergarten vaccination rates in key counties like King and Pierce have dropped to approximately 91%, below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity.
- Vaccine Fatigue: Medical providers report increasing "vaccine hesitancy" and fatigue among parents, contributing to missed boosters.
- Waning Immunity: Epidemiologists note that acellular pertussis vaccines have waning efficacy over time, necessitating strict adherence to booster schedules (Tdap).
Candida auris
Healthcare Associated
Ongoing transmission identified in major healthcare facilities including Harborview Medical Center and Kindred Hospital. This multi-drug resistant fungus poses a severe threat to hospitalized patients. Strict screening protocols are now in place for patient transfers.
E. coli O121
Foodborne (Carrots)
Washington reported 8 cases linked to a multi-state outbreak involving organic bagged carrots (Grimmway Farms). While products have been recalled, consumers are urged to check fridges for "best-by" dates ranging into late 2024.
Infant Botulism
Product Recall
A nationwide recall of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula in November 2025 includes Washington State. At least one local infant case has been linked to the product. Providers are on alert for symptoms in infants.
2025-2026 Respiratory Season Outlook
The respiratory virus season is currently active. The DOH's new Respiratory Illness Data Dashboard indicates "High" activity levels for Influenza in several counties. RSV and COVID-19 markers remain elevated but stable. Public health officials strongly recommend concurrent vaccination for Flu and COVID-19, particularly given the concurrent circulation of avian influenza risks.