The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has released its official immunization guidance for the upcoming respiratory virus season, aligning with public health partners in Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii. The new recommendations aim to protect Californians from COVID-19, influenza, and RSV by emphasizing the importance of seasonal vaccinations.
State officials stress that immunizations are a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of serious illness and help prevent community transmission. They also note that maintaining strong vaccination rates is important for limiting strain on healthcare systems during periods when respiratory viruses circulate widely.
Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed Assembly Bill 144 into law. This legislation ensures that CDPH’s immunization recommendations will be based on evidence from national medical organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). The bill also seeks to maintain insurance coverage for recommended vaccines and support access through pharmacies, clinics, and other healthcare providers.
“Heading into respiratory virus season, Californians deserve clear, science-based recommendations and access to immunizations to protect themselves from vaccine-preventable disease. Changes to state law will maintain insurance coverage and ensure access to vaccines across pharmacies, clinics, and other health care providers,” said CDPH officials.
Officials highlighted that these measures reflect shared principles among West Coast Health Alliance states. Ensuring continued accessibility to COVID-19, influenza, and RSV vaccines remains a key objective across California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii.
“This week, Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law Assembly Bill 144, which ensures that CDPH’s immunization recommendations are informed by evidence-based scientific recommendations from trusted national medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). These recommendations are also in alignment with the shared principles of the West Coast Health Alliance. An important shared goal of our four states is to ensure that COVID-19, influenza and RSV vaccines remain accessible.”
