Vaccines have saved millions of lives worldwide and remain one of the most effective tools for preventing serious infectious diseases.

Nevada County Public Health, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), and the West Coast Health Alliance continue to recommend vaccinations based on the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Recommended Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule, which reflects long‑established evidence on vaccine safety and effectiveness.

On January 5, 2026, the Acting Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) signed a decision memorandum revising the U.S. Child and Adolescent Immunization Schedule. These changes significantly reduce the number of vaccines routinely recommended for all children. The decision did not follow the established scientific review and advisory process normally used for national vaccine policy. Public health experts warn that this abrupt shift may increase the risk of vaccine‑preventable diseases among children across the country.

When children contract diseases that vaccines are designed to prevent, the impacts can be serious leading to missed school days, missed work for parents, preventable hospitalizations, and in some cases, life‑threatening illness. High vaccination rates protect everyone. The more people who are vaccinated, the harder it is for diseases to spread. This includes seasonal illnesses like influenza. An annual flu shot is recommended for everyone 6 months and older and helps reduce the spread of flu in our community. 

Protect yourself, your family, and your community by staying up to date on vaccines. Talk to your doctor, pharmacy, or Nevada County Public Health to learn more about which vaccines are recommended for you.