• Michigan’s childhood vaccine recommendations remain unchanged; routine and catch-up immunizations are available at the Detroit Health Department at 100 Mack Avenue

As students return to classrooms, the Detroit Health Department is encouraging parents and caregivers to review their children’s immunization records and schedule any routine or catch-up vaccinations that are due.

Michigan’s childhood vaccine recommendations, school requirements and waiver processes have not changed following recent federal action. The state continues to follow evidence-based childhood and adolescent immunization schedule developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and endorsed by leading medical organizations. The Detroit Health Department will continue to follow that guidance.

“Families shouldn’t have to sort through changing public health messages to know how to protect their children,” said Ali Abazeed, Detroit’s Chief Public Health Officer and Director of the Detroit Health Department. “Our job is to provide clear guidance, answer questions and make protection easier to reach. We want parents to know they have a trusted partner in the Detroit Health Department.”

Clear facts about the MMR vaccine
MMR is one combined vaccine that protects against three diseases: measles, mumps and rubella. It is not a one-shot series. Children routinely receive two MMR injections, with the first dose given at 12 to 15 months and the second at 4 to 6 years. Two doses provide approximately 97 percent protection against measles.

A recent federal executive order calls for replacing the combined MMR vaccine with three separate single-disease products once those products are domestically available. The order also recommends administering childhood vaccines at separate medical visits whenever feasible. Separate measles-only, mumps-only and rubella-only vaccines are not currently available in the United States.

Michigan has not adopted these changes. State health officials have affirmed the longstanding safety and effectiveness of combination vaccines, including MMR, and noted that combination vaccines reduce the number of injections children need.

Current pediatric guidance also supports administering most recommended vaccines safely and effectively during the same visit. Giving needed vaccines together can reduce extra appointments and missed opportunities while helping children receive protection at the ages when they need it.

“Families don’t have to navigate the vaccine schedule on their own,” said Timiko Drew, DHD Nursing Director and Interim Clinical Services Administrator. “Whether your child is due for a routine vaccination, has missed a dose or you simply have questions, our nursing team is here to help. We can review your child’s vaccination record, talk through your concerns and explain the next steps. We want every family to feel heard, supported and confident about their child’s care.”

The renewed focus on childhood vaccination comes as measles and whooping cough continue to circulate in Michigan. State health officials report that current vaccination coverage remains below the levels needed to prevent outbreaks, leaving infants, medically vulnerable children and entire school communities at greater risk.

Childhood vaccinations available at DHD:
The Detroit Health Department provides routine and catch-up vaccinations for infants, children, teenagers and adults. Families can also request a history of their immunization records and receive vaccine education. Free vaccines are available for children who qualify, including children whose families may not otherwise be able to pay.

Detroit Health Department Immunizations Clinic
100 Mack Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201

Hours:
Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (last client is accepted at 3:45 p.m.)
Every 1st & 3rd Thursday 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last client is accepted at 5:15 p.m.)

Families can schedule an appointment by calling 313-876-IMMS (4667). Appointments are available throughout the year. Families should bring their child’s vaccination record, a photo ID and an insurance card when available.

Families can also receive back-to-school vaccinations at the Detroit Health Department’s 5th Annual Block Party on Saturday, September 12, from noon to 4 p.m. at 100 Mack Avenue. The event will include health screenings, food, activities, giveaways and other community health resources.