Public Health Provider Newsletter - January 2026Public Health Provider Newsletter - January 2026
Marin County Public Health Newsletter - January 2026
In this Issue: A School Outbreak, A Clinical Reminder: Think TB | Fourth Case of Measles in the Bay Area | Vaccine Guidance Update: California Aligns with AAP | DEA Extends Telehealth Flexibilities for MAT | Message from the Health Officer
A message to physicians and other healthcare providers from Marin County's Public Health Officers.
A School Outbreak, A Clinical Reminder: Think TB
Recent TB activity in the Bay Area, including an outbreak at Archbishop Riordan High School in San Francisco, underscores the need for vigilance across the TB spectrum. Providers should maintain clinical suspicion for active TB in patients with persistent cough, fever, night sweats, or weight loss, particularly with congregate setting exposures, and promptly initiate airborne precautions and report to Marin County Public Health. Health care providers must complete this confidential online report for all suspect and active tuberculosis cases among Marin County residents. Please do not wait for laboratory confirmation before reporting.
Fourth Case of Measles in the Bay Area
Napa County recently reported a measles case in an unvaccinated child with travel to South Carolina, where an outbreak is ongoing. This follows a non–travel-associated case in Contra Costa County and two cases in unvaccinated adults in San Mateo County with recent international travel. Providers should suspect measles in patients with fever and generalized maculopapular rash, especially with cough, coryza, or conjunctivitis. Assess measles immunity in adult patients, particularly those without documented MMR vaccination, born after 1957, or with upcoming travel, and vaccinate when indicated. Report suspected cases immediately to Marin County Public Health: 415-473-4163 (business hours) or 415-479-5305 (after hours).
Vaccine Guidance Update: California Aligns with AAP - Not CDC
In partnership with HHS, the DEA issued a fourth temporary extension of COVID-19 telehealth flexibilities, ensuring medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder can continue via telemedicine through December 31, 2026. DEA-registered practitioners may prescribe Schedule II–V controlled medications, including Schedule III–V OUD medications, via audio-video visits without a prior in-person exam. New final rules effective December 31, 2025 further clarify telehealth options for OUD and veterans’ care.
Staying connected matters. Strong professional community helps us share knowledge, support one another, and respond when it matters most. One way to stay engaged locally is through the San Francisco Marin Medical Society, which offers opportunities to connect with colleagues and stay informed. We also encourage providers to consider joining the Marin Medical Reserve Corps—an important way to serve the community and be ready during public health emergencies.
Message from the Health Officer
Dear Colleagues,
January reminded us of the strength of community and the importance of staying connected. During the King Tides, we saw neighbors helping neighbors—exactly as it should be. In many ways, we are all neighbors in the larger Marin community. Public Health is just one part of what helps communities thrive and grow. As we continue navigating a hybrid work environment and busy days, we encourage you to pause, say hello, and connect—with colleagues, friends, and the people who make our daily lives run. Connection matters as much as the work itself.
Requests for disability accommodations may be made by phoning (415) 473-4381 (Voice), CA Relay 711 or by e-mail at DisabilityAccess@MarinCounty.org. Copies of documents are available in alternative formats, upon request.
Our mailing address is:
3240 Kerner Blvd
San Rafael, CA 94901
In partnership with HHS, the DEA issued a fourth temporary extension of COVID-19 telehealth flexibilities, ensuring medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder can continue via telemedicine through December 31, 2026. DEA-registered practitioners may prescribe Schedule II–V controlled medications, including Schedule III–V OUD medications, via audio-video visits without a prior in-person exam. New 
January reminded us of the strength of community and the importance of staying connected. During the King Tides, we saw neighbors helping neighbors—exactly as it should be. In many ways, we are all neighbors in the larger Marin community. Public Health is just one part of what helps communities thrive and grow. As we continue navigating a hybrid work environment and busy days, we encourage you to pause, say hello, and connect—with colleagues, friends, and the people who make our daily lives run. Connection matters as much as the work itself.
