CA Health Alliance Endorses AAP Vaccine Schedule, Warns Measles Risk

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH), in coordination with the West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA), has officially endorsed the 2026 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule. This schedule differs from recent changes issued by the CDC. The CDPH will continue to adopt the most recent AAP immunization recommendations for California, as mandated by Health and Safety Code section 120164. This action comes amidst a concerning rise in measles cases and hospitalizations, with a warning that the state risks losing its measles elimination status.

While this endorsement aligns with existing CDPH recommendations and health insurance coverage for these vaccines in California will continue, the announcement serves as a public health advisory. Healthcare providers are encouraged to discuss the medical evidence, benefits, and safety of vaccines with families, particularly in light of the current measles outbreak. The CDPH also issued separate recommendations for mpox vaccine access for at-risk adolescents. No new compliance actions are mandated by this announcement, as it reaffirms existing practices.