On January 5, 2026, public health leaders from the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO), Trust for America's Health (TFAH), and the Big Cities Health Coalition (BCHC) released a joint statement addressing the recent changes to the US childhood vaccination schedule announced by the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS).
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tfah.orgThe statement highlights that the US vaccine schedule has been developed based on extensive scientific evidence and ongoing safety monitoring, aimed at protecting children from diseases that can severely impact their health and well-being.The leaders expressed concern that the new changes would complicate the vaccination process for parents and healthcare providers, potentially creating barriers to accessing essential immunizations.
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tfah.org"Immunizations are the most effective defense we have against a host of deadly and painful illnesses," the statement reads.It emphasizes that timely vaccinations prevent the spread of diseases within communities and support healthy childhood development.The leaders noted that the positive outcomes of vaccinations are evident, as diseases that were once common are now rare, allowing children to attend school rather than being sidelined by preventable illnesses.
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tfah.orgIn response to the federal government's actions, California, Oregon, and Washington have formed the West Coast Health Alliance, which aims to provide unified, evidence-based vaccine recommendations.This initiative was launched due to concerns over the politicization of science and the perceived undermining of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by the Trump administration, which included the removal of key CDC officials and advisory committee members.
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cmadocs.orgcbsnews.comCalifornia Governor Gavin Newsom, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek, and Washington Governor Bob Ferguson stated that the alliance represents a regional response to the erosion of the CDC's credibility.They emphasized that public health decisions must be grounded in science rather than political ideology, asserting that the health and safety of their communities are at stake.
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cbsnews.comThe West Coast Health Alliance will coordinate health guidelines and align immunization recommendations based on respected national medical organizations.This collaboration aims to ensure that residents receive consistent, science-based guidance, regardless of federal actions that may create uncertainty in vaccine policies.
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cmadocs.orgcbsnews.comDr Erica Pan, California's State Public Health Officer, criticized the dismantling of public health structures and the dismissal of experienced health leaders, stating that such actions jeopardize lives.She called for clear and transparent communication about vaccines, emphasizing that public trust is essential for effective health policy.
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gov.ca.govThe alliance's formation comes at a time when public health leaders are increasingly concerned about the impact of inconsistent vaccine guidance on community health.The governors of the alliance states have committed to upholding evidence-based recommendations and restoring confidence in public health systems, which they believe is crucial for protecting the health of their residents.
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gov.ca.govcmadocs.orgIn conclusion, the joint statement from public health leaders underscores the importance of maintaining a scientifically grounded approach to vaccination policies.As the West Coast Health Alliance moves forward, it aims to provide clarity and consistency in immunization recommendations, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to grow up healthy and strong in a supportive environment free from preventable diseases.
