Overview: As COVID-19 activity increases throughout California, the Department of Public Health is urging residents aged six months and older to stay current with vaccinations. Officials noted that recent summer infection peaks have surpassed winter surges, emphasizing the need for immediate protection. In addition to immunizations, the department recommends wearing high-quality masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and improving indoor ventilation to reduce transmission.
Nyla Glover
As late-summer and early-fall COVID-19 activity increases across the state, including here in the inland region, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has encouraged all Californians to protect themselves and their families by staying up to date on their COVID-19 vaccinations.
Consistent with patterns observed annually since 2020, disease activity typically surges during the late summer months, making timely immunization a critical step in preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and unnecessary sick days as children return to school and regular routines resume.
Public health officials emphasize that staying up to date on immunization reduces the risk of severe complications and allows individuals to recover faster if infected. The recommendation applies to all Californians aged 6 months and older, with a focused effort on protecting high-risk populations, including infants, young children, pregnant individuals, adults aged 65 and older, and immunocompromised residents.
“As COVID-19 activity rises each summer, and our kids are getting back to school, getting vaccinated is one of the strongest ways we can protect our families and keep our communities thriving,” said Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer. “By staying up to date on your vaccine, you’re choosing health, resilience, and the freedom to enjoy the season with confidence.”
CDPH advises healthcare providers to continue administering the 2025–2026 COVID-19 vaccine formula through the summer while awaiting the arrival of the updated 2026–2027 vaccines expected later this season.
Over the past two years, late-summer infection peaks have exceeded winter surges, underscoring the necessity of immediate protection rather than delaying vaccination until winter. Anyone who has not received a 2025–2026 dose or is due for a second dose is urged to consult their healthcare provider. Specific high-risk groups, including adults aged 65 and older and immunocompromised individuals, are recommended to receive two available doses spaced six months apart.
COVID-19 vaccines remain accessible and are covered for most Californians through private health insurance, Medi-Cal, and regular healthcare networks. Uninsured and underinsured families can access low- or no-cost vaccines for children aged 18 and younger through the federally funded Vaccines For Children (VFC) program.
Immunizations can be safely co-administered alongside other routine seasonal vaccines during a single provider visit. Appointments can be scheduled online by visiting MyTurn.ca.gov or by contacting local pharmacies and healthcare providers.
In addition to vaccination, CDPH highlights several essential layers of virus prevention to reduce transmission in homes, schools, and workplaces. Staying home when sick prevents the spread of COVID-19, seasonal influenza, RSV, and common colds. Wearing high-quality masks, such as N95 or KN95 respirators, provides additional protection in crowded, poorly ventilated, or high-risk indoor settings. Maintaining strict hand hygiene by washing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, or using an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, reduces contact transmission. Residents are also advised to cover coughs and sneezes into elbows or tissues and improve indoor ventilation by opening doors and windows where safe to increase fresh air circulation.
Individuals experiencing symptoms should seek medical evaluation promptly, as antiviral treatments are most effective when initiated shortly after symptom onset. For comprehensive guidance, local clinic aid, and regional health information, residents can access county public health support through the Riverside County Department of Public Health and the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, or visit the official CDPH Respiratory Virus Hub for additional resources.