Flu Season 2025–2026

As we move deeper into respiratory virus season, I want to share a quick update on where flu activity stands, what trends we’re watching, and what you can do to stay healthy.

2025-26 Influenza Season
Week 50 ending Dec 13, 2025
© 2025 CDC

Stories of Hope and Humanity: My Speech at The Olympia Free Clinic Breakfast Fundraiser

I recently had the honor of speaking at the Olympia Free Clinic’s Annual 'Care for All' Breakfast Fundraiser—a morning filled with compassion, community, and hope!

Fall 2025: WA State COVID-19 Vaccine Update

Last year I shared an overview of fall vaccines for respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV (see that post here). This year brings some important changes—especially around COVID-19. The FDA has narrowed eligibility nationally, but Washington state is continuing with broader access. Here’s what you need to know:

Measles Outbreak

As you know, we are having the largest measles outbreak in many years in the US. The recent measles death in Texas underscores the critical importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Source: Dr. Kim's Kids (Winnsboro Pediatrics)

Unprecedented Influenza Season

The Cascade Pacific region (including Thurston, Mason, Lewis, Grays Harbor, Pacific, Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties) is grappling with one of its worst flu seasons in recent history, as emergency department visits for influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) continue to exceed alert thresholds.

Emergency department visits for influenza for week of 2/2-2/8/25 was 10.4%

Updated CDC guidelines for pneumococcal vaccinations in adults

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have recently updated their recommendations for pneumococcal vaccinations in adults, aiming to enhance protection against diseases like pneumonia. These updates are particularly significant for adults aged 50 and older, as well as those with certain health conditions. Understanding these changes can help individuals make informed decisions about their health.

Source: Mount Sinai Health System
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/special-topic/
pneumococcal-polysaccharide-vaccine-what-you-need-to-know

Health-related book recommendations for your wellness journey

Taking control of your health starts with knowledge. Here are some highly rated books on diet, lifestyle, exercise, women's and men’s health, aging, and more.

Medicare Supplement Plan G

Once again, the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period has begun, and here's an update on a high deductible Medicare Plan G for those of you who already have or want to enroll in Original Medicare and need Medicare supplement health insurance.

'Tis the season: Upper Respiratory Illnesses (URIs)

Most upper respiratory illnesses (URIs) are viral in nature, which means that antibiotics are not useful and can sometimes even cause harm, such as rash, severe diarrhea, or allergic reactions. Instead, we focus on reducing your symptoms so that your immune system can do its job and take care of the infection on its own.

Source: NIH National Institute on Aging:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/covid-19/it-cold-flu-or-covid-19

Fall vaccines for respiratory illnesses

The long-awaited announcement from the FDA about the new annual COVID vaccine is here!

Understanding Perimenopause, Menopause, and Postmenopause

As women age, many changes occur in their bodies, especially around their midlife years. The transition from perimenopause to menopause and postmenopause is a natural biological process, but it's often surrounded by confusion, myths and misinformation. To help women navigate this important phase of life, here's an overview on what to expect and how to manage symptoms effectively.

Kicking Off My Journey to the Seattle Half Marathon

Week 1 - Half Marathon Training

After over five weeks of battling sciatica, I'm thrilled to announce that I'm back on track and diving into my training for my very first half marathon! This journey is not just about crossing the finish line; it's about reclaiming my fitness and pushing my limits. Here's a glimpse into my first week of training.

Battling for the Soul of Medicine: The Critical Role of Direct Primary Care (DPC)

Direct Primary Care (DPC) stands as a beacon of hope amidst the complexities of modern healthcare. It presents a compelling alternative to the prevailing fee-for-service model, which burdens doctors with excessive administrative tasks, sapping their time and energy.

DPC haiku written by Dr. Kim

Unleashing the Power of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) for Weight Loss

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has gained immense popularity in the fitness world for its efficiency in burning fat and promoting weight loss. This revolutionary workout method involves short bursts of intense exercise alternated with periods of rest or lower-intensity activity.

The Sleep-Weight Loss Link: Unveiling the Hormonal Harmony

In the quest for weight loss, we often focus on diet and exercise, but there's a crucial player we sometimes overlook – sleep. Reflecting on last week's minimal weight loss despite my efforts, I explored the profound connection between sleep and weight management.

Fat Burn vs Cardio Zone

Understanding the Fat Burn Zone vs. Cardio Zone: Maximizing Your Workout

When it comes to exercise, optimizing your heart rate is key to achieving specific fitness goals. Two commonly discussed zones during workouts are the fat burn zone and the cardio zone, each catering to different objectives. Understanding these zones, along with the concept of maximum heart rate, can greatly influence the effectiveness of your fitness routine.

Training Day 1

A slow and steady start to my training for two races this year! https://www.instagram.com/p/C1lxzR9sQzo/

Check back often as I explore fitness and lifestyle topics along my journey!

Why Do You Need Vitamin D Supplementation in WA State?

As the vibrant colors of fall fade and the winter chill sets in, residents of Washington State, situated at a northern latitude, may find themselves longing for the warmth of the sun. However, beyond providing a comforting glow, sunlight plays a crucial role in the production of vitamin D within the human body. Despite spending ample time outdoors during the fall and winter months, many individuals in this region might still experience vitamin D deficiency. This phenomenon can be attributed to the angle at which the sun's rays hit the Earth's surface, particularly in regions with higher latitudes such as Washington State.

Areas north of 37°N latitude) face challenges
in obtaining sufficient Vit D from sunlight alone.

🚨 Important COVID-19 Booster Update 🚨

If you've been wondering about the latest on COVID boosters, we've got you covered!

Free COVID-19 home tests for Washingtonians

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) announced that they will continue to provide free COVID-19 home test kits to residents at least through the end of 2022, despite the end of federal financial support for testing programs. The rapid antigen tests take 15 minutes to complete, offering users a convenient way to check whether they are infected with COVID-19 without needing to access the healthcare system, especially during the peak season for upper respiratory infections.

Scientifically accurate atomic model of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Each "ball" is an atom.
Source: Alexey Solodovnikov (Idea, Producer, CG, Editor), Valeria Arkhipova (Scientific Сonsultant). CC BY-SA 4.0.