COVID-19 Activity Increases in California

Summer and fall increases in COVID-19 activity have occurred yearly since 2020, creating an expected surge of activity during this time. As COVID-19 activity increases in California, state health officials recommend getting immunized against this disease. It has been proven safe and effective in preventing serious illness and death in children and adults.

“As COVID-19 activity rises each summer, and our kids are getting back to school, getting vaccinated is one of the strongest ways we can protect our families and keep our communities thriving,” said Dr. Erica Pan, California Department of Public Health (CDPH) director and state public health officer. “By staying up to date on your vaccine, you’re choosing health, resilience and the freedom to enjoy the season with confidence.”

California health officials recommend that :

• Everyone 6 months and older should have access to and the choice to receive available COVID-19 vaccines.
• Anyone who hasn’t received a dose of 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine or is due for a second dose get vaccinated now as increases in infections are occurring.
• Some groups (young children, immunocompromised people) may need multiple doses.
• People 65 and older or who are immunocompromised are recommended to receive two available doses six months apart.

Vaccination reduces the risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death, the health department said. CDPH recommends that healthcare providers continue to administer the 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccine through the summer while awaiting arrival of the 2026-2027 COVID-19 vaccine later this year. For the last two years we’ve seen higher peaks of COVID-19 disease activity in late summer than in the winter, so it’s important to protect now. Talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are right for you and your family.