Marin County Public Health Status Update for April 03, 2026, includes Public Health Week: Ready. Set. Action.; Shellfish Warning for Marin Coast; Stay on Track: Teen Vaccines Matter; Don't Touch that Bat; Be Prepared: Save Lives; 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.
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/
Public Health Week: Ready. Set. Action.
April 6–12 marks National Public Health Week, a time to recognize how public health protects and improves our daily lives—from preventing disease to promoting healthier communities. This year’s theme, “Ready. Set. Action.,” is a reminder that everyone has a role to play. Guided by insights from Marin’s Community Health Assessment, we continue to focus on the issues that matter most to our community. Stay engaged by taking simple steps to protect your health, supporting your community, and staying informed. Together, we can build a healthier Marin.
Shellfish Warning for Marin Coast
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is advising residents not to eat sport-harvested shellfish—including mussels, clams, oysters, and scallops—from Marin County due to the risk of naturally occurring toxins. These toxins cannot be removed by cooking and can cause serious illness. This advisory does not apply to commercially sold shellfish from approved sources. Healthcare providers should report suspected shellfish-related illness to Public Health.
Stay on Track: Teen Vaccines Matter
April 6–10 marks Adolescent Immunization Action Week, a reminder that vaccines help protect preteens and teens now and into adulthood. Staying up to date on recommended vaccines—like HPV, meningococcal (MCV), and Tdap— helps prevent serious diseases, including cancer, meningitis, and whooping cough. Vaccinating on time keeps teens healthy, in school, and active in their communities.
Don’t Touch that Bat
As bats become more active this time of year, residents may see them around homes or neighborhoods. Bats can carry rabies, so never handle a bat with bare hands. If you find a bat in your home, close off the area, keep people and pets away, and contact local animal control for guidance. If there has been any possible contact with a bat—especially involving a child, sleeping person, or pet—seek medical advice right away.
Be Prepared: Save Lives
A recent CDC advisory highlights ongoing overdose risks, including fentanyl and other substances like xylazine. Naloxone (Narcan) can reverse opioid overdoses and save lives—give it right away if you think someone is overdosing. Because naloxone does not work on xylazine, it is still important to call 911 and provide rescue breathing. We encourage residents to carry naloxone and learn how to use it. Free naloxone is available across Marin County—use the Marin County Naloxone Finder to find a location near you.
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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