NEWS RELEASE
April 18, 1997

MDCH & Partners Focus on Infant Immunization Week

Protecting more of Michigan's youngest and most vulnerable children is the focus of activities across the state during National Infant Immunization Week April 21 - 26, Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) Director James K. Haveman, Jr. announced today.

"The emphasis is on convenient access and free or low-cost immunizations," Haveman said. "This is a great collaboration with the Michigan Association of Broadcasters (MAB), Ronald McDonald House Charities, local public health departments and other providers statewide."

MAB members in many locations have teamed with local health departments to provide additional awareness of the special clinic hours, free or low-cost shots, and other immunization events in their communities. "The assistance of MAB members is a vital part of letting parents know that this special opportunity is available," Haveman said.

Ronald McDonald House Charities and McDonald's restaurants are expanding the awareness effort by distributing materials such as immunization schedules, brochures, and pamphlets. "McDonald's restaurants serve millions of Michigan residents," Haveman said. "Their participation is a tremendous community service."

The awareness effort provides parents with a toll-free number, 1-800-26-BIRTH. Parents can call the number free of charge and get information about the nearest site for free or low-cost immunizations.

Complete vaccination before the age of two helps prevent serious childhood disease such as whooping cough, measles, mumps and rubella. Michigan's immunization rate among two-year-olds is 74 percent, up 32 percent from 1991. "We have made excellent progress, but we still have a long way to go to protect 100 percent of our youngest children," Haveman said.

Other sponsors include the Michigan Health & Hospital Association, the Michigan State Medical Society, the Michigan Association of Osteopathic Physicians & Surgeons, and McNeil Consumer Products. "The contributions of each of these organizations are important," said Haveman. "Their commitment to Michigan's children is appreciated."

For Immediate Release Contact: Geralyn Lasher
April 18, 1997 517-241-2112