Great Lakes Wire

Vaccines are critical to maintaining public health, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) urges Michigan residents and families to get caught up and stay up-to-date on vaccines as part of National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). This annual observance highlights efforts to protect individuals of all ages against vaccine-preventable diseases and ensure residents receive vaccinations on time. Global immunization efforts have saved an estimated 154 million lives, with the majority being infants (101 million). MDHHS encourages residents to consult their healthcare providers about recommended vaccines for themselves and their families.

“As we start getting our families ready for school in the fall, it’s a good time to catch up on routine vaccinations,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Vaccinating on time and following the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommended schedule is the best protection against serious diseases like measles, hepatitis A, polio, and cancers caused by HPV. Together we can protect Michigan children, families, and communities. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider, find a local pharmacy or contact your local health department for more information.”

According to data from the Michigan Care Improvement Registry (MCIR), as of March 2024, only 66.9% of Michigan children aged 19 through 35 months were fully immunized with recommended vaccines. This is a significant decrease from March 2019 when 73.5% of children in this age group were vaccinated.

MDHHS encourages residents to explore the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Interactive Vaccine Guide, which offers details on vaccines for children, adolescents, adults, and pregnant persons. Adults aged 19 and older can use the CDC’s Adult Vaccine Assessment Tool to determine their vaccination needs. As part of this recognition month, MDHHS joins the Franny Strong Foundation, its partner on the I Vaccinate campaign, and other advocates across the nation to spread the message that vaccines are one of the safest ways to protect health and lower risks for certain diseases and cancers. More information is available on the CDC’s NIAM website.

Watch for additional information coming soon from MDHHS regarding availability of flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines to help reduce symptoms and severity of illness during the upcoming fall respiratory season.

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