Hello!

Measles cases are rising across the U.S. and Washington State is closely monitoring local activity. Currently, there is a measles outbreak in Snohomish County, prompting interim vaccination guidance for those who live in or travel there frequently. You can stay up to date on measles activity through the Washington Department of Health's Measles Tracker, which provides information on case counts, outbreaks, and public exposure locations.

Most reported cases continue to occur among unvaccinated individuals. Providers should monitor for common presentations—especially when there has been a possible or confirmed exposure within the past 21 days. Remember that measles may not look the same on everyone, and limited representation in clinical images can lead to delayed diagnoses. Resources from the American Academy of Dermatology Association and the Center for Outbreak Response Innovation offer helpful guidance on recognizing symptoms in diverse patients.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles and limit community spread. Encourage Washington residents to stay protected by reviewing their vaccination status and by keeping up with your county's guidance.

Continue reading for more resources, upcoming meetings, and events.

Stay safe, healthy, and protect your community!



In Partnership,

WithinReach - Immunization Initiatives Team

The Respiratory Season Subcommittee will meet next on Tuesday, February 24 from 2 - 3 pm. Email chair Ajia McAferty to learn more.

The Executive Committee will meet virtually on Wednesday, April 1 from 10 am - 12 pm. Interested in being a part of the committee or have an idea for IACW? Email to connect!

Join IACW for the Spring quarterly coalition meeting on Wednesday, May 13 from 12 - 2 pm. Registration is required to attend the meeting.

Join the Washington HPV Free Taskforce Meeting

You're invited to attend the WA HPV Free Taskforce meeting on February 27 from 8:30 - 10:30 AM. Their mission is to increase human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates in Washington and reduce the amount of HPV associated disease by engaging and supporting diverse partners and increasing knowledge about HPV and cancer prevention.

Navigating New Terrain: Keeping Up to Date with Evolving Vaccine Guidance

Join the Bree Collaborative on March 3, 2026 from 12-1:15pm for a webinar on:

• Interpreting new information.
• Determining when and how to adjust clinical or operational practices.
• Communicating updates clearly and confidently to patients and provider networks.

WA Vaccine Recommendations & Talking with Families about Recent Changes

DOH will host a webinar on February 23rd from 12-1pm to with Dr. John Dunn:

• Recent changes to the childhood and adolescent immunization schedule and DOH recommendations
• AAP Immunization schedule
• Talking to families about recent changes.

Vaccine Inventory Quality Improvement Project

Join Washington Chapter of the AAP’s statewide quality improvement pilot to improve inventory management and reduce waste. Earn free MOC Part 4/MC-FP Part IV credits for physicians. Simplify inventory management, save time, and resolve paint points with expert supports. Spots are limited - enroll by March 20th.

RSV Dinner Event with Sanofi



Join Sanofi Vaccines' Medical Affairs for a free dinner event focused on connecting medical professionals and discussing the impact of technology utilization on improving immunization rates against RSV. They are hosting two dinners:

• Downtown Seattle on February 18, 2026
• Tacoma on February 26, 2026

Podcast: You Matter - Voices in Healthcare

Produced by the Power of Providers at the Washington State Department of Health (DOH). Episodes feature conversations with health care workers and leaders about resilience, stress management, burnout prevention, and the systemic changes needed to better support Washington’s health care workforce. Hear from Secretary of Health, Dennis Worsham in episode 1.

Check out our free immunization e-courses on the Immunity Community website! These courses can be started and completed at any time. Courses are available for professionals who work in the immunization field.

QUESTIONS OR SUGGESTIONS?

Contact us: ic@withinreachwa.org

Making the connections Washington families need to be healthy and safe. Promoting, protecting & supporting immunization as a vital part of the health and development of children and families.

Founded in 1994, the Immunization Action Coalition of Washington (IACW), a program of WithinReach, works to improve the health of the community by minimizing the incidence of vaccine preventable diseases through the optimal use of immunizations across the lifespan.

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