August Legislative and Community Updates

Back-to-School Vaccinations

As families get ready for a new school year, now is a good time to make sure children are up to date on their routine vaccinations and to schedule any needed appointments before classes begin.

Childhood vaccination rates continue to decline in Michigan. According to the latest state data, 76% of Michigan children ages 19 to 35 months have received their first dose of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, a 10% decline over the past five years. Michigan has also seen measles cases and outbreaks over the past two years, underscoring the importance of keeping children protected against vaccine-preventable illnesses.

This past week, families joined the Family Health Center for its annual Back to School Bash on Friday, Aug. 14, at Western Michigan University. The event featured carnival rides, food, backpacks filled with school supplies, personal care kits, prizes and activities for children. This year’s celebration also recognized the 20th anniversary of the Kalamazoo Promise, with Promise families and alumni joining in the festivities.

With fall right around the corner, this is also a good time to start thinking ahead about seasonal flu vaccinations and to talk with your health care provider about which vaccines are recommended for you and your family.

Cyclosporiasis Update

MDHHS continues to monitor the large cyclosporiasis outbreak that began earlier this summer. Cyclosporiasis is an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite and can cause prolonged watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fatigue and loss of appetite.

As of Aug. 14, MDHHS reported 13,909 cases statewide, including 354 cases in Kalamazoo County. The department has returned to its routine guidance for consuming lettuce and salad greens, although residents should continue avoiding any products subject to an active recall.

This outbreak is also an important reminder of the work our public health system does behind the scenes. Local health departments, MDHHS, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the CDC and federal food-safety agencies work together to identify patterns, interview patients, track possible exposures and determine whether illnesses share a common source. That work takes time, but it is essential to identifying outbreaks and protecting communities.

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