“The Vaccine” is a hot topic in the news, but parents are asked not to forget about the routine non-COVID vaccines that their children may be behind on receiving.
According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, kids are falling behind on their vaccine schedule across the state. Well-child visits have been postponed in the wake of the global pandemic, making non-immunized children vulnerable to diseases. Both mumps and measles, which are vaccine preventable and highly contagious have presented in children in the area within the past two years.
The flu vaccine, while not required for school, is being strongly recommended this year. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at MDHHS, said, “It will also be vital for everyone ages six months and older to get their flu vaccine this fall. The influenza vaccine will help keep Michiganders out of the hospital for flu-related illnesses, saving lives and protecting our hospital capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic.” The flu vaccine will be available in early fall.
St. Clair County’s vaccination rate is considered “poor” and the waiver rate, where parents choose not to have their children vaccinated, is considered “high”, according to the county health department annual report.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
