Portland health brief: vaccine deadline, winter safety, and OHSU research highlights

School vaccine catch-up deadline approaches

Multnomah County health officials are reminding families that Oregon’s annual school immunization check is coming up fast. Children who are missing required vaccines or documentation may be excluded from school or child care starting Wednesday, Feb. 25.

If you received a notice from your school, look it over and schedule an appointment with your child’s usual clinic if possible. For families who can’t get in quickly or don’t have a regular provider, the county says its Student Health Centers can provide required vaccines for ages 5 to 18 with no out-of-pocket cost, regardless of insurance.

Winter weather adds injury risk

With snow showers possible in higher elevations and the potential for slick roads in parts of the city, Portland transportation officials are urging residents to track forecasts and plan ahead for safer trips through Thursday. From a health standpoint, short bouts of winter weather often mean more slips, falls, and cold-related stress for older adults and people with chronic conditions.

Simple ways to stay safer

Give yourself extra time and avoid steep hills if conditions worsen.
Wear shoes with traction and keep one hand free for balance.
Check on neighbors who may have trouble getting heat, food, or medications.
If you must be outside, dress in layers and watch for early signs of hypothermia, such as confusion or shivering that won’t stop.

OHSU spotlights new research support

OHSU recently highlighted awards and appointments across the institution, including new research support tied to childhood cancer. One spotlighted project aims to identify new treatment targets in juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia, a rare pediatric blood cancer. While lab advances take time to translate into new therapies, local research investments can eventually expand options for Oregon families who need highly specialized care.

What to do today

If you’re a parent or caregiver, take a minute to confirm your child’s vaccine records and make a plan before Feb. 25. And as winter weather moves in and out, keep a small safety checklist: a charged phone, warm layers, and at least a few days of essentials and medications.

Sources

https://multco.us/news/feb-25-deadline-required-childhood-vaccines-oregon
https://www.portland.gov/transportation/news/2026/2/17/winter-travel-advisory-pbot-advises-traveling-public-be-mindful
https://news.ohsu.edu/2026/02/17/accolades-awards-honors-and-appointments-february-6916757