Michigan's childhood immunization rates are among the lowest in the nation, threatening the public health of the entire state. Low immunization rates in Michigan (and other states) are contributing to recent outbreaks of vaccinate-preventable diseases that sicken and, in some cases, cause fatalities. For 3 years the Michigan Osteopathic Association (MOA) has fought to raise the rates of vaccinations, and lower the vaccination waiver rates, in a group called the Parent Information Network (PIN). The coalition is comprised of healthcare groups including physicians, nurses, pharmacists, the Michigan Health and Hospital Association (MHA) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

The fight to combat the vaccination rates includes legislative advocacy and press conferences designed to appeal to parents. While progress has been made, Michigan went from 47 in the country to 43, more work was needed. Approached by the Franny Strong Foundation (www.frannystrong.org), PIN looked for funding for a wide-ranging awareness campaign. The combined efforts of the MDHHS, PIN and Franny Strong gained significant funding to run focus groups of parents and create a campaign based on the results.  

On March 20, "I Vaccinate," was launched with a press conference featuring the stakeholders and Dr. Melinda Wharton, Director Immunization Services Division, NCIRDat Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The campaign includes TV, radio, print, outdoor and digital ads, a compelling new website, social media activities, and close collaboration with public health and health care leaders. Running through 2017, PIN hopes the campaign will help educate parents and combat pending legislative bills designed to loosen the requirements.

Links:
www.ivaccinate.org  
I Vaccinate YouTube Channel

Hashtags:
#IVaccinate
#CommunityImmunity

Contact: Angela Minicuci,
Office of External Relations and Communications, MDHHS
[email protected], (517) 241-2112

When Bob Swanson, Immunization Division Director Population Health and Community Services Administration, for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), met Dr. Melinda Wharton, Director Immunization Services Division, NCIRD at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at a immunization event in North Carolina, they had much in common. Swanson, a key member of PIN, explained the I Vaccinate campaign and the goals of the PIN group. Dr. Wharton immediately asked, "How can I help?"

The chance meeting led to her appearance at the press conference launching the campaign in Lansing, Michigan. But she didn't stop there. Dr. Wharton asked "What else?" The MOA worked with the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM) to quickly arrange a lecture room at Fee Hall and a simulcast to the Detroit Medical Center and Macomb University Center campuses. The result was Dr. Wharton addressing over 130 MSUCOM students and engaging in a Q&A. The response was tremendous.

Bruce Wolf, DO, FAOCR, President of the MOA joined in the discussion. "The Michigan Osteopathic Association is proud to be a part of the I Vaccinate campaign. This is an important public health campaign and we are confident we can help raise the vaccination rates for children in the state of Michigan," said Dr. Wolf.

The Scientific Research Exhibit (SRE) competition reached a record number of submissions for the 118th Annual Spring Scientific Convention. Now the judges will be put to the test, as over 80 abstracts were submitted for judging. Poster presentations and oral presentations are scheduled for Friday, May 19, 2017 from 7:30am - 1 pm, and includes a separate awards luncheon for participants and judges.
Links:
2017 Spring Scientific Convention
MOA Spring Scientific Research Exhibit Competition
Westin Southfield Detroit