Whooping cough cases reach epidemic levels in Washington

Pertussis (whooping cough) is reaching epidemic levels in our state. So far in 2012 more than 600 cases have been
reported, compared to fewer than 100 cases in the same time period in 2011. This puts us on track to have the highest number of cases in decades.

For further information, see the pertussis advice sheet from the Washington State Department of Health.

Getting Started

Certain resources in HEAL-WA (indicated by a lock lock) require a HEAL-WA access code (UW NetID) and password for access.

Once you have set up your HEAL-WA access code and password, LOG IN to HEAL-WA by clicking on the "Log In" button at the top of this column.

LOG OUT from HEAL-WA by simply closing your browser.

Set up your HEAL-WA access - to set up a HEAL-WA access code and password, see the instructions on the Getting Started page.

PLEASE NOTE that once you have set up your access code, it can take up to a day for your access code to be recognized so you can log in to HEAL-WA.

  • “This critical resource allows providers the opportunity to learn best practices used in their professions and furthers the ongoing education of all health care professionals.” Gov. Christine Gregoire
  • “I find HEAL-WA intuitive to use. It's a nicely organized resource with point-of-care tools that clinicians can use in the line of fire.” Jim Anderson, PA
  • “HEAL-WA underscores the state's commitment to supply quality medical resources to providers and therefore to all their patients, in all settings.” Jim Anderson, PA
  • “The tools at HEAL-WA help us access the information we need to keep up with our practice and make sure we are providing quality care for our patients.” Jim Anderson, PA
  • “I like the clarity and simplicity of HEAL-WA. It's not unwieldy, like some other information resources. I know where things are, and I can find them more quickly.” Jim Anderson, PA
  • “I can quickly go online with HEAL-WA and within three minutes, I'll know what a specific disease is, how it is diagnosed, what the most common treatments are, and what patient resources are available. I owe it to my patients to have this information, and this point-of-care tool gives it to me in minutes.” Jim Anderson, PA
  • “I don't know how I got along without HEAL-WA. It is a direct pipeline to the latest research and medical/mental health information.” Denise Ottosen, mental health therapist
  • “I use HEAL-WA all the time. The research that I am able to do on PsycInfo and MEDLINE keep me abreast of new developments.” Denise Ottosen, mental health therapist
  • “Nurses who are on the run every moment at work don't have time to noodle around on the Web looking for information. HEAL-WA puts all the information you need in one spot, and it can be accessed anywhere, anytime.” Katy Brock, RN
  • “With HEAL-WA, you can get the continuing education credits you need, at your own convenience, on your own time, without paying any additional money.” Katy Brock, RN
  • “It is easy to access good patient education materials and diagrams through HEAL-WA and you're getting them from reliable sources.” Katy Brock, RN
  • “HEAL-WA gives us quick access to high-quality information, continuing education credits, and educational materials. It's a 24/7 information source that you can access anywhere, anytime.” Katy Brock, RN
  • “With HEAL-WA, the state has made getting essential information for decision-making easier. The long-term result will be better quality of care for the people of Washington.” Tom Cloyd, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
  • “Too often, we blow off accessing library resources because it's too much trouble. This gets rid of that excuse.” Tom Cloyd, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
  • “If you make the path to a goal shorter, more people will get to that goal. HEAL-WA does this, by making crucial information more convenient and accessible.” Tom Cloyd, Licensed Mental Health Counselor