Great Lakes Wire

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is maintaining its recommendation for COVID-19 vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older, including pregnant individuals. This position aligns with guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

A recent change in federal guidance by the Health and Human Service (HHS) director adjusted vaccine recommendations for healthy children and pregnant people. Despite this, MDHHS states that the COVID-19 vaccine remains safe during pregnancy and offers protection to children, women, and infants after birth. Data show that maternal vaccination can lower the risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization for infants by more than half during their first three months.

“There is strong evidence that supports COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy and for pediatric patients,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that children under 6 months of age are at the highest risk for hospitalization, and that more than 40% of those hospitalized had no underlying conditions. The COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to prevent complications of infection. We urge Michigan residents talk to their health care providers about getting vaccinated.”

MDHHS reports it regularly reviews new research on vaccines. The department notes that evidence consistently shows vaccines are safe, have saved millions of lives, and have prevented tens of millions of hospitalizations in the United States over the past three decades. During the 2023–2024 period, the COVID-19 vaccine was found to reduce emergency room or urgent care visits related to COVID-19 by 65% to 70% among children in the two months following vaccination.

The approval process for COVID-19 vaccines included extensive clinical trials and review by medical experts. The vaccine received authorization from agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, and the CDC director. After national approval, MDHHS reviews all FDA and CDC recommendations before providing guidance to Michigan healthcare providers and residents.

COVID-19 continues to result in illness, hospitalizations, and deaths across communities. MDHHS emphasizes vaccination as a key measure in preventing severe outcomes from infection. Residents are encouraged to remain current on all recommended vaccinations.

Further information about COVID-19, seasonal respiratory illnesses, and prevention strategies can be found at https://www.michigan.gov/covidflursv.