News & Stories for Oregonians
Oregon is seeing real progress in the fight against drug overdoses. New data from Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and federal partners show that overdose deaths have gone down for the second year in a row. While the work isn’t over, these numbers are a strong sign that our communities’ efforts are making a real difference. A downward […]
Every young person in Oregon deserves the chance to thrive. When youth have the support they need, whether that’s mental healthcare, school services or help for disabilities, they are safer, more confident, and better able to reach their goals. And when our youth succeed, our entire state becomes stronger, healthier, and more connected. That belief is at […]
In early May, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) epidemiologists learned that an Oregon resident had been aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, where health officials were investigating an outbreak of a rare virus called Andes hantavirus. Since then, OHA has worked closely with local, federal, and international partners to monitor the Oregon resident and plan for their safe return. Return from quarantine The […]
Our partners at Oregon Department of Human Services share that the Oregon Summer EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) program is back! The Summer EBT program gives families money to help buy groceries when school is out. Healthy eating throughout the summer helps students stay strong and prepared for the next school year. Each eligible student can […]
Families in rural Oregon will soon see stronger, more reliable maternity care thanks to new federal funding approved by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Governor Tina Kotek has secured state funding that will help keep maternity care services strong and stable in some of the state’s most remote areas. With funds matched by the federal government now […]
Families across Oregon work hard to keep children healthy, and vaccines are a big part of that. Most parents choose to vaccinate their children, but new data shows that some schools have lower vaccination rates than they used to. Because of this, state health officials are encouraging families to take a moment to check their school’s immunization rates. […]
Building on a strong foundation Construction is now underway on a new Latino-focused residential treatment center in Madras. The BestCare Treatment Services center, located at 316 NW Fourth Street, will offer 16 beds and expand access to substance use disorder treatment for the growing Latino community in Central Oregon. The new facility will provide care with respect to Latino culture and language. It […]
When a young person is experiencing a mental health crisis, families often find themselves navigating fear, confusion and uncertainty all at once. In those moments, having access to the right support can make all the difference. The Oregon Family Support Network (OFSN) is here to help families feel less alone and more empowered. If you’re […]
The air we breathe affects our health every day. Even though air quality across the United States has improved over the last 20 years, air pollution remains a challenge, especially during wildfire season or periods of heavy smoke. Poor air quality has been linked to health problems like asthma, heart disease, and difficulty breathing. Some people, including […]
As summer gets closer, the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program is launching its 2026 season. From May through September, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) work together to check water quality at some of Oregon’s most popular beaches so everyone can enjoy the coast safely. Why do we test ocean water? Sometimes […]