Childhood Vaccinations Have Dropped in Michigan

Due to the pandemic, necessary childhood vaccinations have declined in Michigan and health officials are urging parents to get it done as soon as possible so their kids can be caught up.

A press release from the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS) says that especially now, in the middle of a pandemic, it's important for kids to be up-to-date to ensure their protected.

Decreased immunization rates put Michiganders at risk for disease outbreaks.

According to new data from, the percentage of 5-month-olds who were fully up-to-date from 2016-2019 decreased from over 66% to under 50% in May 2020.

In addition, only 53.1 percent of Michigan children 19 months through 35 months of age were fully immunized...

Doctors across the state have implemented safety procedures to allow parents and children to safely come in and get checked. This includes limiting the number of guests, requiring face masks, and checking-in from cars.

Dr. Khaldoun (who you've seen several times now alongside Gov. Whitmer during COVID updates) says it's also recommended for anyone 6 months and older to get their flu shots 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.

If money might be a concern, the Michigan Vaccines for Children program offers free vaccines for kids and adolescents up to 18 years of age and are Medicaid-eligible, don't have insurance or are underinsured, American Indian or Alaska Native.

For anyone with questions, concerns, or wants more information about vaccines the MDHHS suggests visiting this website. More info about vaccines during COVID-19 can be found here.