Health and Wellness

While the forecast tsunami was not a disaster on any level, it was, on every level, a good thing for us in Whatcom County. Why? Because of all we learned.

Residents are advised to avoid contact with wild animals, especially bats, and to keep their pets’ vaccinations up to date.

Before harvesting shellfish, check for biotoxin and pollution closures by using the Washington Shellfish Closure map or by calling the Department of Health Biotoxin Hotline at 1-800-562-5632.

The department says the risk to the public is very low as it works with the state Department of Health and CDC to investigate the source of the infection.

Skagit Bay remains closed for harvesting, as it still has high reported levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning biotoxins.

Just over 10% of the county is now experiencing an extreme drought.

Pet owners can contact Whatcom Veterinary Hospital at (360) 384-0212 or visit whatcomvethospital.com for more information or to schedule an appointment.

By making small changes to your daily habits—especially during hot, sunny weather—you can help reduce ozone pollution and protect both your health and the environment. Let’s all do our part to keep the air clean this summer!

The vaccine clinic takes place from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.

The closure applies to all molluscan shellfish including clams, oysters, mussels, and scallops.