Contra Costa Health (CCH) stated this week that it will continue to recommend and provide the full existing schedule of routine vaccinations, opting not to adopt the recent reductions in federal immunization guidelines.
On Jan. 5, the federal government reduced the number of universally recommended childhood vaccines from 17 down to 11. Under the updated federal policy, vaccines for flu, COVID-19, rotavirus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and meningitis are no longer routinely recommended for all children. Instead, these are now categorized for “high-risk” groups or for use based on “shared clinical decision-making” between a doctor and patient.
CCH is aligning with the California Department of Public Health and the West Coast Health Alliance to keep the original, more comprehensive schedule. Local officials state that the full schedule of 17 vaccinations is necessary to prevent the return of diseases that have been controlled for decades.
This local policy keeps Contra Costa aligned with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), which continues to support the original immunization schedule as safe and effective.
“Vaccines save lives, especially for infants, children, older adults, and people with underlying health conditions,” said Dr. Ori Tzvieli, Contra Costa County health officer. “Our priority is ensuring families can confidently access vaccines that prevent serious disease.”
Vaccines recommended in California remain covered benefits under Medi-Cal. The Contra Costa Health Plan continues to cover essential immunizations for eligible members. CCH said its clinics and community partners will continue providing vaccinations to residents across the county, regardless of insurance status.
“CCH encourages residents to speak with their health care providers about recommended vaccinations and to stay up to date on immunizations that protect individual health and the well-being of the broader community,” officials said.