NEWS RELEASE
May 17, 2000

WIC Agencies Honored for Immunization Efforts

 

Michigan Department of Community Health Director, James K. Haveman, Jr., today announced that six local Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) supplemental food and nutrition programs across the state were honored for their work in immunizations.

"In 1991, the state immunization rate for children was a dismal 42 percent," said Haveman. "We have been aggressive in our efforts to turn these numbers around and educate families on the life-saving importance of immunizations. WIC programs have assisted in these efforts by reviewing immunization records of infants and children coming to their clinics and helping them get their needed immunizations. Thanks, in part to the efforts of WIC, Michigan's statewide immunization rate for 2-year-olds increased to over 79% in 1998."

"These WIC agencies provide an outstanding service to women and children who are in need of nutritious foods and nutrition education," continued Haveman. "These agencies took the time to discuss the importance of immunizations with their clients and we are proud to recognize their efforts to protect children from deadly disease."

The honored agencies reviewed the immunization records of more than 98% of the infants and children at their clinics during the last reporting period. All of the agencies have shots available on site and have after hour appointments available to make it easier for parents to get their children vaccinated. The agencies honored for their efforts are:
* Huron County Health Department;
* District Health Department #4, which includes Alpena, Cheboyan, Montmorency and Presque Isle counties;
* Dickinson-Iron District Health Department;
* District Health Department #2, which includes Ogemaw, Alcona, Iosco and Oscoda counties;
* Delta-Menominee District Health Department; and
* Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph District Health Department.

The WIC Program serves pregnant, breast-feeding, and postpartum women, infants and children at or below 185% of poverty who are at nutritional and/or medical risk. WIC provides nutritious foods (via coupon) to supplement and help improve the diet, nutrition education and social services. Project FRESH is also available to WIC participants from June to October, and allows the purchase of Michigan grown fresh produce.

To enroll or for more information on WIC, call 1-800-26-BIRTH or visit any local health department.