May 24 Statement from the Washington State DOH

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is aware of reports of a small number of cases of myocarditis or pericarditis in some patients, post-vaccination. Further investigation is needed to determine if these cases are connected in any way to COVID-19 vaccines.

Health care providers in Washington, Idaho and Oregon have been notified about this issue so they can be ready to quickly identify symptoms if more cases occur.

Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart tissue, and is usually caused by a viral infection. Symptoms include chest pain, abnormal heartbeat, and shortness of breath. Pericarditis is swelling and irritation of the thin, saclike tissue surrounding the heart.

DOH is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), local public health, and healthcare providers in our state to gather data and other information about these incidents.

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