DC Health News

Mayor Bowser Announces 21st Emancipation Day Celebration, New Location

Mayor Muriel Bowser announces the 21st annual DC Emancipation Day celebration on Sunday, April 19, 2026. The event moves to a new location at 13th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. The free day-long celebration includes a festival, parade, and star-studded concert featuring T.I., Mýa, and Tye Tribbett. DC Emancipation Day commemorates the 1862 signing of the DC Compensated Emancipation Act, which freed more than 3,100 enslaved people.

DC Emancipation Day 2026, District Services Modified

DC Department of Health announced modified District government services for DC Emancipation Day on Thursday, April 16, 2026. Low-barrier homeless shelters, mental health crisis services including the 988 helpline and DC Stabilization Center, select public libraries, and Department of Parks and Recreation outdoor facilities will remain open. No new compliance obligations are imposed.

Board of Acupuncture, Chiropractor and Naturopathic Physicians Newsletter

DC Health published the Winter/Spring 2026 newsletter for the Board of Acupuncture, Chiropractor and Naturopathic Physicians. The newsletter provides informational updates on DC Health services including the DC Health and Wellness Center, professional licensure resources, and contact information for licensed practitioners in the District of Columbia.

Mayor Bowser Kicks Off Earth Month and 10th Annual Spring Cleanup

Mayor Muriel Bowser and District of Columbia leaders announced the 10th Annual Spring Cleanup scheduled for April 25, 2026, and highlighted spring cleaning services resuming across the city. The Department of Public Works announced expanded food waste collection options, a new recycling partnership with the DC Housing Authority, and will now administer the Mayor's Office of the Clean City and Adopt a Block program.

DC Health Data Series Highlights Immunization Coverage Improvements

DC Health has released a new data brief highlighting significant improvements in childhood immunization coverage, particularly for the MMR vaccine among kindergarten students, which increased from 79% to 93% over four years. The report also notes variations in coverage across different wards and demographic groups within the District.

DC Health Investigates Measles Exposure

DC Health is investigating potential measles exposures among residents who visited specific locations in Washington D.C. between January 21 and February 2, 2026. The notice provides details on exposure sites and guidance for individuals who may have been exposed.

DC Health Investigates Measles Exposures

DC Health issued a notice regarding confirmed measles cases and potential exposures across multiple locations in Washington D.C. The notice lists specific dates and times of potential exposure and advises individuals who may have been exposed to contact DC Health or their healthcare provider.

DC Health Investigates Regional Measles Exposures

DC Health is investigating potential measles exposures among residents who visited specific locations while contagious. The notice provides details on exposure sites and guidance for individuals who may have been exposed, including recommended actions and symptom monitoring.

DC Health Statement on CDC Childhood Immunization Schedule Changes

DC Health issued a notice clarifying that the District's childhood immunization schedule remains unchanged despite recent modifications by the CDC. The notice assures that all recommended vaccines, including those for influenza and COVID-19, continue to be covered by insurers at no out-of-pocket cost to families in the District.

DC Health Highlights HIV/AIDS Prevention Resources on World AIDS Day

On World AIDS Day, the DC Department of Health highlighted free HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment resources available to residents. These resources include PEP, PrEP, at-home test kits, and support services through programs like the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program.