Marin County Public Health Status Update for January 02, 2026, includes Measles: Protect Yourself and Your Community with Vaccination; January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month-Take Charge of Your Health; Medi-Cal Changes in 2026: Steps to Stay Covered; Dry or Damp January: A Fresh Start for Your Health; Prepare for Cold Weather and Power Outages in Marin County; and Marin Respiratory Virus Surveillance.
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.
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Measles: Protect Yourself and Your Community with Vaccination
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can cause serious illness, especially in young children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems. A recent non-travel related measles case confirmed this week in Contra Costa County shows that measles is circulating in our region and can spread locally. Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles and stop outbreaks. Most people are protected with two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine. Adults born in 1957 or later who are unsure of their vaccination history may need an additional vaccine dose. A booster is not routinely needed for people who are fully vaccinated. If you’re planning international travel, work in healthcare, or are unsure about your protection, talk with your healthcare provider. Staying up to date on vaccines helps protect you, your family, and the Marin County community.
Medi-Cal Changes in 2026: Steps to Stay Covered
Medi-Cal changes in 2026 may affect some adult immigrants. If you or a family member has Medi-Cal, taking a few steps now can help you stay covered. Affected members will receive notices by mail, text, or email, so be sure your Medi-Cal contact information is up to date. Watch for renewal packets and respond quickly. Know your renewal date and keep your medical appointments. If you have questions, reach out for help. Learn more: https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/Medi-Cal/Pages/changes.aspx
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month — Take Charge of Your Health
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and every January we highlight how to protect yourself and your loved ones. Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common virus. The HPV vaccine dramatically reduces the risk of cervical cancer and is recommended for children starting around ages 9 to 12 years old and for eligible adults up to age 45. Regular screening with Pap and HPV tests can find early changes before cancer develops, when treatment works best. Talk with your healthcare provider about your screening schedule and whether you or your family members are up to date on HPV vaccination. Acting now helps prevent cancer and keeps our Marin County community healthier.
Dry or Damp January: A Fresh Start for Your Health
January is a great time to reset and check in with your health. Dry or Damp January encourages people to cut back or take a break from alcohol to notice how it affects sleep, mood, energy, and focus. Even small changes can support better mental health and lower health risks. In Marin County, adults report some of the highest binge drinking rates in the state. You don’t have to make changes alone. Marin County offers confidential support for alcohol and drug use, treatment, and recovery through Behavioral Health & Recovery Services (BHRS). Learn more and get connected at www.marinhhs.org/bhrs or call 888-818-1115.
Prepare for Cold Weather and Power Outages in Marin County
Cold, wet weather can arrive quickly in Marin County and may lead to power outages, road closures, and unsafe driving conditions. Taking simple steps now can help keep you and your family safe. Keep an emergency kit in your car with water, snacks, warm blankets, a flashlight, phone charger, and basic first aid supplies. At home, prepare for power outages by having extra batteries, shelf-stable food, medications, and a plan to stay warm if electricity is lost. Check weather forecasts, visit the Marin County Public Emergency Portal, avoid unnecessary travel during storms, and look out for neighbors who may need extra help. Being prepared ahead of time helps reduce stress and keeps our community safer during winter weather.
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
Vaccine Locations | Vaccine Information | Free COVID-19 Testing
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
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Information and Assistance: Call (415) 473-INFO (4636) or visit Marin County's Online Community Resource Guide
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The Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (BHRS) Access Line: Call (415) 473-6666.
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Help is available. 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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
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Individuals: Call (415) 473-HOME (4663)
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Families: Call Homeward Bound of Marin at (415) 457-2115
Stay Informed
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