Introduction to the West Coast Health Alliance
The West Coast Health Alliance, comprising California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii, has issued joint recommendations for vaccinations against seasonal respiratory viruses, including the flu and COVID-19. This move comes ahead of a meeting by CDC advisers to review vaccine recommendations, amid concerns that the Trump administration has politicized the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Background to the Recommendations
The four Democratic-led states formed the West Coast Health Alliance early this month to combat what they describe as the “weaponization” of federal health agencies to advance antivaccine policies. Their recommendations follow those of major medical organizations and are based on decades of scientific research showing that vaccines are safe and effective. The alliance’s move is a response to the perceived politicization of the CDC, which they believe jeopardizes public health.
The Politicization of the CDC
U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a leading antivaccine activist before becoming the nation’s top health official, fired the entire 17-member CDC advisory panel earlier this year and replaced it with a group that includes several anti-vaccine voices. Former CDC chief Susan Monarez was also fired after 29 days on the job for refusing to sign off on changes to the childhood vaccination schedule without data to back up the changes. Public health leaders warn that these moves dismantle independent, science-based oversight and inject politics into decisions that protect Americans’ health, undermining the CDC’s credibility.
Reaction from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
In a written statement, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services spokesman Andrew Nixon criticized the West Coast Health Alliance’s effort, stating that Democrat-run states had eroded the American people’s trust in public health agencies during the COVID era. Nixon said that the HHS will ensure policy is based on rigorous evidence and Gold Standard Science, not the failed politics of the pandemic.
Recommendations from the West Coast Health Alliance
The recommendations from the West Coast Health Alliance include that all residents older than 6 months get a flu vaccine and that all babies receive protection from RSV. Among those who should receive the COVID vaccine are children 6 months to 23 months old; all adults over 65, and everyone younger than 65 who has risk factors or is in contact with people with risk factors; anyone pregnant or planning a pregnancy; and “all who choose protection.” Clinic support supervisor May Fengmei Lin, CMA, displays a syringe of the Fluarix flu vaccine at International Community Health Services, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)
State-Level Responses
The moves by the Trump administration have prompted debate and action in the states. Florida has taken steps to become the first state to get rid of school vaccine mandates, with some states looking to follow its lead. Others are promising to protect vaccines for children and adults. Democratic Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey has said the state is requiring insurance carriers to cover vaccinations recommended by its public health department, regardless of whether they are endorsed by the federal government. Her state is also leading a bipartisan coalition of eight Northeast states that met over the summer to discuss coordinating vaccine recommendations. In New Mexico, pharmacists have received the go-ahead to administer COVID-19 shots based on state health department guidelines rather than just the federal government’s immunization advisory committee. Pennsylvania’s pharmacy board voted this month to protect the availability of COVID-19 vaccines for those most in need and to make it accessible across the state, at the urging of Gov. Josh Shapiro. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis and Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson have directed health officials to make sure residents are able to be vaccinated against the virus.
Conclusion
The West Coast Health Alliance’s joint recommendations for vaccinations against seasonal respiratory viruses are a significant move in the face of perceived politicization of the CDC. The alliance’s efforts aim to ensure that public health decisions are based on science and evidence, rather than politics. As the debate over vaccine policies continues, it is essential to prioritize the health and well-being of Americans, particularly vulnerable populations such as children, older adults, and those with risk factors.
FAQs
- Q: What is the West Coast Health Alliance?
A: The West Coast Health Alliance is a coalition of four Democratic-led states (California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii) formed to combat the perceived politicization of federal health agencies and advance evidence-based public health policies. - Q: What are the recommendations for vaccinations against seasonal respiratory viruses?
A: The West Coast Health Alliance recommends that all residents older than 6 months get a flu vaccine, all babies receive protection from RSV, and specific groups receive the COVID vaccine, including children 6 months to 23 months old, adults over 65, and those with risk factors. - Q: How have states responded to the Trump administration’s moves on vaccine policies?
A: States have responded in various ways, including Florida’s move to eliminate school vaccine mandates, while others, such as Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, are taking steps to protect and expand access to vaccines. - Q: What is the significance of the West Coast Health Alliance’s recommendations?
A: The recommendations aim to prioritize science-based decision-making in public health, ensuring that vaccine policies are based on evidence and protect the health and well-being of Americans, particularly vulnerable populations.
