Vaccine News Roundup: DOH New State Authority, ACOG Leaves ACIP, Measles on the Rise
Breaking developments from the past two weeks
The March/April issue of WSMA Reports, WSMA’s member magazine, takes an in-depth look at the ongoing tension between federal vaccine policy and state health organizations. Since that story was published, there have been further developments, reflecting the depth and breadth of the crisis.
Washington Legislature passes bill to decouple vaccine coverage from ACIP
As covered in last Friday’s WSMA Advocacy Report, WSMA priority legislation House Bill 2242 grants authority to the Washington State Department of Health instead of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for recommendations on vaccine coverage in our state. WSMA support for the bill was driven by 2025 House of Delegate policy (resolution B-9) and backed by extensive policy in support of immunizations.
ACOG withdraws from ACIP
On Feb. 24, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists announced its withdrawal as a liaison organization to ACIP citing concerns about recent changes that undermine the committee’s scientific integrity and evidence-based approach to vaccine policy.
No changes to the childhood immunization schedule in Washington state
The Department of Health reaffirms Childhood Vaccine Program participants should continue to follow the 2026 American Academy of Pediatrics Recommended Child and Adolescent Vaccine Schedule for all children. This schedule is endorsed by the West Coast Health Alliance and the Department of Health and reflects the current evidence-based standard of care for pediatric immunization. Learn more.
Measles on the rise
The Department of Health has confirmed 26 measles cases across four Washington counties this year, more than double the 12 cases reported statewide in all of 2025. Physicians and practitioners are encouraged to review the interim pediatric measles outbreak vaccination recommendations and remain alert for measles-like symptoms, especially among people who visited public exposure locations listed on the Washington State Measles Public Exposure Location Tracker or recently traveled. If measles is suspected, immediately email the Communicable Disease Epi Vaccine Preventable Disease team or call 206.418.5500 at any time to request diagnostic testing at Washington’s Public Health Lab. Questions, email immunenurses@doh.wa.gov.
March 16 also marks Measles Immunization Day, making it an excellent opportunity to download and share the Department of Health’s Measles Communications Toolkit, which includes resources for addressing misinformation, promoting vaccine safety, and strengthening community health.