Pasadena Updates Vaccine Rules After Newsom Signs New Law on Medical Standards

California’s vaccine guidance will now follow the lead of the nation’s top medical groups under a law signed last week by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Assembly Bill 144, approved Sept. 17 and filed with the Secretary of State the same day, directs the California Department of Public Health to align its recommendations with those of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

The Pasadena Public Health Department quickly adjusted its own guidance to align with state public health standards. The city now recommends COVID-19 and flu vaccines for everyone 6 months and older, and RSV vaccines for those who qualify by age or condition.

“As we enter respiratory virus season, we urge everyone eligible to stay up to date on these vaccines,” said Dr. Parveen Kaur, Pasadena’s acting health officer.

Coverage and Access

Under the new law, vaccines recommended by the state health department remain covered by Medi-Cal and by private insurers “in most instances,” officials said. The measure ensures access to COVID-19, flu, and RSV shots and brings California into alignment with the West Coast Health Alliance’s principles.

Appointments are available through local healthcare providers, pharmacies, and the state’s scheduling portal, MyTurn.ca.gov.

“Getting vaccinated is safe, effective, and the best protection available against respiratory viruses,” said Manuel Carmona, Pasadena’s director of public health. “The Pasadena Public Health Department remains committed to science-based approaches that safeguard the health of our community.”

Eligibility Details

• COVID-19: Children 6 to 23 months are eligible. So are children 2 to 18 years with risk factors, those never vaccinated, children in close contact with at-risk individuals, and those who opt in. Adults 18 to 64 years with risk factors, adults with at-risk contacts, and adults who choose vaccination are also included.
• RSV: Adults 75 and older, pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation, children 8 to 19 months with risk factors, and adults 50 to 74 years with risk factors qualify.
• Flu: All children 6 months and older and all adults 18 and older are eligible.

Pregnant, postpartum, and lactating individuals are eligible for COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines.

Public Health Emphasis

Health officials reiterated that vaccines lower the risk of severe illness and limit community spread.

“Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the spread of illness in our community and reduce the risk of severe illness from COVID-19, flu, and RSV,” Dr. Kaur said.

Residents with coverage questions are encouraged to confirm with their health plan. More information is available on the California Department of Public Health’s “Public Health for All” webpage.