Marin County Public Health Status Update: March 20, 2026

County of Marin, California sent this bulletin at 03/20/2026 09:31 AM PDT

Marin County Public Health Status Update graphic

Marin County Public Health Status Update: March 20, 2026

 

Marin County Public Health (MCPH) protects our community by promoting health, preventing disease, and preparing for public health emergencies.  The MCPH Public Health Status Update is released on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month to provide news and resources concerning public health priorities.   

 

For additional public health insights across California, subscribe to Your Local Epidemiologist – California, authored by Marin County’s former Public Health Officer. 👉 https://yourlocalepidemiologistca.substack.com/ 

 

Para leer esta página en español, visite: "Actualización del estado de salud pública para el "https://coronavirus.marinhhs.org/public-health-status-update-03202026" y desplácese hacia arriba y haga clic en el enlace que dice "Translate" (Traducir) y elija "Spanish" (español).  

 

Vaccine Update

This week, a federal court temporarily halted recent federal changes to the childhood vaccine schedule, maintaining existing recommendations while legal review continues. At the same time, ongoing global measles outbreaks, which includes under-vaccinated parts of the United States, highlight how quickly vaccine-preventable diseases can spread. Marin County Public Health remains guided by established, science-based immunization practices to protect our community. Adults should review their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination records. If you are unsure of your status or not up to date, contact your healthcare provider or a local pharmacy to review your records and receive the MMR vaccine, if needed. 

 

RSV Still Spreading in Marin 

RSV levels are still higher than usual in Marin and statewide, so babies remain at risk. RSV immunization includes a protective antibody shot (Nirsevimab) for infants under 8 months entering their first RSV season.  Some high-risk children ages 8–19 months may also qualify.  Pregnant persons can receive an RSV vaccine during weeks 32–36 of pregnancy to help protect their newborn. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has recommended continuing to immunize infants through April.  Discuss options with your health care provider to make an informed choice. 

 

World TB Day - Yes! We Can End TB

March 24 marks World TB Day, with the theme “Yes! We can end TB! Led by public health. Powered by partners.”  Tuberculosis (TB) is a slow-growing disease, and people can carry it without symptoms for months. Treating latent TB infection (LTBI) is one of the most effective ways to prevent active TB disease and stop its spread. Through early detection, treatment, and strong partnerships, we can work together to end TB.  

 

Stay Cool, Stay Hydrated, Stay Connected

A heat advisory is in effect, and residents should take steps to stay safe. Limit outdoor activity during peak heat (3–6 PM) and spend time in air-conditioned or shaded places. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine. Plan ahead by checking the forecast and preparing for outages. Check on older adults and vulnerable neighbors and never leave children in cars. Stay updated through the County’s public emergency portal, Marin County Public Health Heat Safety page, and state resources like HeatReady CA and Cuídate del Calor for tips and alerts. 

 

Suicide Prevention: Learn, Connect, and Take Action 

The Marin County Suicide Prevention Collaborative invites community members to attend upcoming meetings and educational events. Everyone can play a role in suicide prevention by building skills to support someone during times of distress. Join a Lunch and Learn on Tuesday, March 24 from 12:00–1:00 PM: Creating Hope Through Safety Planning.  Safety planning is a practical tool to help support someone experiencing suicidal thoughts and to stay connected during difficult times. Register Here 

 

Health Advisory: Avoid Raw Dairy Products 

A recent FDA investigation has linked raw (unpasteurized) cheddar cheese to a multistate E. coli outbreak, including cases in California—many affecting young children.  While a recall has been recommended, the manufacturer has not removed the product from the market.  Residents are advised to avoid raw dairy products, which carry a higher risk of harmful bacteria, especially for young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. 

 

 

Tsunami Preparedness Week:  March 21-29

Tsunami Preparedness Week is a reminder for everyone in Marin County to get ready for coastal emergencies.  In the past two years, our county has received two tsunami warnings.  We’ve also seen how powerful King Tides can cause serious flooding. This past January, high water flooded shoreline areas, blocked roads, and affected low-lying neighborhoods. These events show how coastal flooding can disrupt travel, utilities, and daily life.  Now is a good time to make a family emergency plan, know your evacuation routes, and remember: if a tsunami warning is issued, walk—don’t drive—to higher ground right away.  Find preparedness tips and real-time alerts at https://www.weather.gov/tsunami.  And don’t forget to bookmark Marin’s Public Emergency Portal and sign up for AlertMarin. 

 

 

Marin Respiratory Virus Surveillance  

We’ve launched Marin County’s new Respiratory Virus Dashboard, which combines local COVID-19, flu, and RSV information in one place. 

 

Resource Link Library 

 

Public Health 

CDPH’s Respiratory Viruses Hub provides practical recommendations and information to help people lower risk from a range of common respiratory viral illnesses, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV. 

Find materials and information to help answer vaccine questions and concerns on Marin County Public Health’s Vaccine Resources page: https://www.marinhhs.org/vaccine-resources 

 

Sign up for AlertMarin, the county’s emergency notification system.   

 

Access to Care

Get free, confidential help to explore your health coverage options and enroll through Covered California at: https://www.coveredca.com. 

You can search for nearby Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) — community clinics that offer low-cost or free health care — at: https://aliadoshealth.org/health-centers/ 

Learn about health coverage options for low-income adults through the County Medical Services Program at https://cmspcounties.org/healthcare-within-reach/. 

 

Nutrition Security

Access free groceries and home-delivered food through the SF-Marin Food Bank’s Food Locator and emergency programs, with help available by calling or texting (415) 824-3663 or emailing help@sfmfoodbank.org. 

 

Community Support and Services

  • The Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (BHRS)  Access Line: Call (415) 473-6666. 

 

Public Benefits

BenefitsCal.com is a one-stop-shop to apply, renew, or manage health care coverage, food assistance, and cash aid.  

You may qualify for California WIC if you live in California, are pregnant or caring for a child under 5, and meet income guidelines or receive Medi-Cal, CalWORKs, or CalFresh. Use the WIC eligibility assessment to check your eligibility. 

 

Marin County Coordinated Entry System for Persons Experiencing Homelessness  

  • Individuals: Call (415) 473-HOME (4663)  
  • Families: Call Homeward Bound of Marin at (415) 457-2115 

 

Stay Informed 

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