Public health organizations across the United States are taking defensive measures to protect established health policies as the new federal administration implements changes to vaccine recommendations and other health initiatives.
The American Public Health Association (APHA) recently held a Rally for the Public's Health on November 5, 2025, where speakers emphasized that "protecting the public's health is not optional, it's essential" [APHA]. The rally demonstrated growing unity within the public health community as federal policies undergo significant changes.
States are responding independently to federal shifts. California has joined Washington, Oregon, and Hawaii in forming the West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA), ensuring public health strategies "use the best available science" [California Department of Public Health]. The alliance recently reaffirmed its stance that vaccines are not linked to autism, directly addressing concerns following changes to CDC webpage content.
Colorado has been particularly proactive, updating state laws last spring to preserve vaccine access amid concerns about federal policy direction. The state's actions came as President Trump appointed Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his anti-vaccine advocacy, as Secretary of Health and Human Services [NPR].
The California Department of Public Health launched the Public Health for All Californians Together (PHACT) Coalition on September 26, 2025, bringing together statewide partners to "protect and improve the health of Californians." The state continues to recommend hepatitis B vaccination for newborns and maintains that California kindergarten immunization rates remain above national averages [CDPH].
Medical professional societies, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and APHA, have sought legal intervention regarding recent changes to pediatric immunization schedules. The groups filed for expedited injunctive relief against upcoming Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) meetings and requested vacation of recent schedule modifications [APHA].
Beyond vaccination policy, public health advocates are addressing gun violence prevention. Dozens of leaders in medicine and criminal justice recently issued "an urgent call for collective action to tackle the gun violence crisis in the U.S.," emphasizing prevention strategies [NPR].
The public health community is also focusing on broader health reform initiatives. APHA continues advocating for comprehensive health policy changes while providing resources for public health workers who have been dismissed from their positions during recent policy shifts.
As National Public Health Week approaches (April 7-11, 2026), with the theme "It Starts Here," state and local health departments are emphasizing their critical role in shaping everyday health outcomes for communities. California's health department noted that this theme "highlights the critical role public health plays in shaping everyday life" [CDPH].
The current landscape reflects a significant tension between federal policy direction and established public health practices, with state governments and professional organizations taking unprecedented steps to maintain what they consider evidence-based health policies. This coordinated response represents one of the most substantial public health advocacy efforts in recent years, as organizations work to preserve community health initiatives amid federal policy uncertainty.