Promoting Science to protect

California from preventable diseases.

Measles Updates-United States ad California

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It is widespread in many parts of the world, with large outbreaks currently occurring in the Philippines, Ukraine, Israel, and in several countries in Western Europe. Travelers infected outside the US can spread measles the United States. Overseas measles outbreaks have led to imported cases and outbreaks in several states, including California.

It takes a community to provide immunity. Bookmark these links and share the fliers. Let’s keep Californians protected against measles and vaccine-preventable disease. #VaccinesWork

The California Department of Public Health Immunization Branch developed two new measles tools for providers.

  1. Testing guide for California healthcare providers. Should I Test for Measles 
  2. Summary of current recommendations on measles immunizations.  Measles Immunization Recommendations – May 22, 2019

Both tools can be found on the CDPH Measles Disease webpage.

Additional Important Webpages

2019 Immunization Leadership Award

The California Immunization Coalition was delighted to recognize Mark Sawyer, MD, this year’s recipient of the Ronald P. Bangasser Immunization Leadership Award at our 2019 Summit. The award is presented to a practicing clinician who exemplifies the leadership, professionalism and commitment that Dr. Bangasser brought to his work promoting immunizations.

Mark is a Past President of CIC, has served on the board of Every Child By Two (now Vaccinate Your Family), and is a longtime leader in the San Diego Immunization Coalition. Throughout his career he has engaged in immunization advocacy and education. His advocacy work—testifying on behalf of important legislation at committee hearings, state and national meetings, and ongoing work with the media—has made a tremendous impact on how policymakers and the public view immunizations and disease prevention. In addition to his body of research and numerous professional and community presentations, his mentoring, training, and encouragement of young physicians sets the stage for a new cohort of passionate and informed medical leaders.

Our congratulations and thanks to Dr. Mark Sawyer.

#HPVCancerFree

June 8, 2018 marked twelve years since the FDA approved the first HPV vaccine for use in the United States. The American Cancer Society also announced that the organization launched a public health campaign to eliminate vaccine-preventable HPV cancers, starting with cervical cancer. The goal is to reach an annual vaccination rate of 80% of young people by 2026. It’s a daunting goal – but with the combined support of all the organizations working to improve HPV vaccination, it is possible.

As you know, the human papillomavirus (HPV) causes six types of cancer and is a common infection. In fact, 9 out of 10 adults – both men and women – are infected with HPV at some point in their lives. Fortunately, we have a vaccine that will prevent this infection from ever occurring and therefore prevent many of the cancers it causes. In the United States, 6 out of 10 of girls and boys aged 13-17 have started the HPV vaccination series, but only 4 out of 10 of girls and boys are up to date on getting the full series. We have a long way to go and we need your support.

The California Dialogue on Cancer has been working with the American Cancer Society and numerous partner organizations including the California Immunization Coalition to form a California HPV Vaccination Roundtable which launched in the Fall of 2018. This coalition of diverse stakeholders will collaborate to increase HPV vaccination in California. With the HPV vaccine, we have an unprecedented opportunity to save lives and reduce the HPV cancer burden.

For more information on the campaign, check out the American Cancer Society webpage on Preventing Cancer with the HPV Vaccine.