Local Health Officials Uphold Vaccine Schedule For Children In Marin County Despite Federal Changes

MARIN COUNTY, CA — Marin County Public Health is standing firm on its commitment to the established, evidence-based childhood and adolescent immunization schedule, reassuring the community that its recommendations remain unchanged despite recent federal action regarding the schedule.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced federal changes on Jan. 5, but Marin County Public Health stressed that there is no change to its vaccine recommendations. These recommendations continue to align with the longstanding schedule supported by a consensus of medical and public health experts.

“While ongoing federal actions related to vaccines create confusion at the national level, they do not change the scientific evidence or our recommendations here in Marin County,” said Dr. Lisa Santora, Marin County Public Health Officer. “The existing childhood immunization schedule reflects decades of independent scientific review and remains the best way to protect children, families, and the broader community.”

For decades, the recommended childhood immunization schedule has been developed through a rigorous, transparent scientific process and reflects best practices for preventing serious and sometimes life-threatening diseases, a Marin County Public Health spokesperson stated. The local agency continues to support the schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and endorsed by the California Department of Public Health and the West Coast Health Alliance.

Marin County Public Health noted that childhood vaccines are among the most thoroughly studied medical interventions in history, supported by decades of research, continuous safety monitoring, and real-world data confirming their safety and effectiveness.

In California, the recommended immunization schedule, including requirements for school and childcare entry, remains unchanged. Vaccines recommended by the State of California and the AAP continue to be covered by state-regulated health plans and insurers and are available at no cost from health care providers, many local pharmacies, and other authorized providers.

The vaccines recommended under the established schedule remain accessible and covered by both public and private insurers, including the federal Vaccines for Children program. In Marin County, the VFC program provides more than half of all childhood vaccines, officials said.

Marin County Public Health encourages parents and caregivers with questions about conflicting national messages to speak with their child’s healthcare provider.

Marin County Public Health will continue to align with CDPH and regional partners and will monitor federal and state developments.

For more information, visit the following resources:

• California Department of Public Health — Immunization Recommendations
• Marin County Public Health — Vaccine Resources
• American Academy of Pediatrics — Vaccine Safety and Facts