Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 2, 2021

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, SutfinL1@michigan.gov

Increasing vaccination rate, lower COVID prevalence prompts MDHHS to roll back mandatory testing for agricultural and food processing employees

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has rescinded its order requiring COVID-19 testing for agricultural employees. This change is being made in light of increasing vaccination rates; declining COVID-19 cases; expanded access to testing and vaccinations; and enhanced housing and worker protections currently in effect to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

“With COVID-19 transmission numbers low and increasing vaccination rates, we are removing the requirement for testing for these workers,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “The most important tool we have is the safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine and we encourage everyone to join the nearly 62% of Michiganders who have already been vaccinated as soon as possible.”

MDHHS recently awarded six contracts totaling nearly $60 million to the help improve COVID-19 vaccination access for high-risk populations and settings across Michigan, including for seasonal agricultural workers. In addition, partnerships have been created with Federally Qualified Healthcare Centers, employers and communities to meet workers where they are and provide vaccination, testing and support to keep workers and families safe. This includes vaccinations offered by the Michigan Primary Care Association (MPCA).

“The Michigan Primary Care Association in partnership with our member Health Centers have built a successful partnership with the state, farm operators, local health departments, workers and communities to meet workers where they are and provide vaccination and testing,” said Dennis Litos, MPCA interim chief executive. “Health Centers are proud to provide health care to farm workers at the Health Center location or at the mobile unit’s location to deliver the safe and effective vaccination right at the farm.”

As part of protecting the state’s workforce from COVID-19, the Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) issued updated emergency rules on June 22 that align with federal guidance. These rules allow employers to use their best judgment in determining whether to maintain daily health screenings, face covering requirements and social distancing requirements. A process for workers to report health and safety concerns in the workplace also exists, with additional information available at Michigan.gov/MIOSHAcomplaint.

“We have made great progress in containing COVID-19 in our state and we continue to provide critical workplace protections more focused on areas of increased COVID-19 risk,” said Michigan COVID-19 Workplace Safety Director Sean Egan. “In non-health care settings, it’s important that all employers recognize that they have a general duty to provide a safe workplace.”

Finally, other protections for agricultural workers remain in effect. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s February 25, 2021, emergency rules continues to require that agricultural laborer housing camps establish COVID-19 preparedness and response plans, and provide quarantine housing for workers who were exposed to COVID-19, among other protections.

“I am thankful for the steps taken by our food and agriculture community to safeguard the health of this vital workforce throughout the course of the pandemic,” said MDARD Director Gary McDowell. “Keeping the established response plan requirements for this growing season provides our growers and processors guidance should a positive employee be identified.”

Additional guidance is available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for Agriculture Workers and Employers as well as information on Vaccinating Migrant/Migratory and Seasonal Food and Agriculture Workers.

The latest information about COVID-19 is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 30, 2021

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, SutfinL1@michigan.gov

Pregnancy risk assessment survey receives $800,000 grant to continue
telling the stories of Michigan’s mothers and babies, releases annual report

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently received an $800,000 grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to help fund the Michigan Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (MI PRAMS) Survey for the next five years.

This survey asks women to confidentially share their thoughts and experiences before, during and following pregnancy to capture information about the factors leading to healthy pregnancies and healthy babies as these details are not always identified or addressed in hospitals and clinics.

“While doctors, nurses and health care professionals deliver care to expectant women in clinical settings, many factors that contribute to healthy pregnancies and healthy babies happen during everyday life,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “With this award from CDC, MI PRAMS can continue to tell the stories of Michigan’s moms and babies as we work to improve the health of mothers and their babies.”

Information from the mothers who answer Michigan PRAMS is used to enhance the understanding of emerging health issues and track progress in improving the health of mothers and infants across Michigan. These findings help to develop laws and policies, strengthen public health programs, educate health care providers and distribute resources. Examples include guidelines issued to Michigan doctors and dentists to ensure pregnant women are receiving proper oral care; implementing programs to assist Native American mothers; and including breastfeeding goals and support in the state’s infant mortality reduction plan.

In 1987, Michigan was among the first states to work with CDC on surveying a random sample of new mothers about their everyday lives. Today, almost every state conducts a version of the PRAMS survey. The MI PRAMS project provides vital information about the successes and struggles faced each year by Michigan’s mothers.

MI PRAMS recently released its 2019 Birth Year Annual Report and responses show:

• About one in four (23.1%) Michigan mothers had one or more basic needs that were not met during pregnancy, such as adequate food, safe housing or reliable transportation.
• Most mothers (84%) plan to follow their doctor’s exact recommendations for immunizing their new infant, although this has decreased since 2016 (88%).
• Smoking during the last three months of pregnancy has decreased significantly over time, down from 18.9% of mothers in 2004 to 10.8% in 2019.
• Marijuana use before, during and after pregnancy remained elevated in 2019 compared to prior years. One in five Michigan mothers (19.6%) reported any marijuana use in the year before pregnancy, up from 12.4% in 2016-2017. One in 15 mothers (6.5%) used marijuana during pregnancy; an increase from 3.1% in 2016-2017. One in nine mothers (10.9%) reported marijuana use since the birth of their new baby, an increase from 7.5% in 2018 and 4.8% in 2016-2017.
• Depression is prevalent before (18.8%), during (17.0%) and following (14.8%) pregnancy. Over a quarter of women (28.4%) report anxiety in the three months before pregnancy.
• Most Michigan mothers reported that, on average, they slept between four and six hours (59.8%) or between seven and eight hours (34.7%) each night. Some mothers, (3.5%) reported a very low amount of sleep (0 to 3 hours) per night. Very few mothers (2%) averaged nine or more hours of sleep each night.
• Most PRAMS respondents (91.7%) say that they have a husband or partner. When asked about eight different types of emotional, financial and personal support, the vast majority of partners (92.1%) supported mothers in six or more ways.

For more information about MI PRAMS, visit Michigan.gov/PRAMS.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 29, 2021 

CONTACT: Bob Wheaton, 517-241-2112, wheatonb@michigan.gov

MDHHS provides State Emergency Relief to low-income residents who need home repairs because of flooding 

LANSING, Mich. – Low-income residents affected by recent flooding in Michigan may be eligible for emergency relief assistance through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).

The State Emergency Relief program provides immediate help to families and individuals facing conditions of extreme hardship or for emergencies that threaten health and safety. It is available to eligible residents that need help with home repairs necessary to correct unsafe conditions and restore essential services.

Applicants must be the owner or purchaser of the home and meet other eligibility requirements – including income limits – to qualify.

“Flooding can be devastating – especially to households that lack the resources to fix unsafe conditions that can affect their families,” said Lewis Roubal, MDHHS chief deputy director for opportunity. “MDHHS is committed to assisting these families in paying for home repairs that are necessary due to flooding or other reasons.”

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has issued a state of emergency in Wayne County in response to flooding. More flooding is possible in Michigan, with flood warnings in Kent and Clinton counties in place until Thursday.

The lifetime maximum amount of funds available for non-energy related home repairs is $1,500 per household. State Emergency Relief Program assistance is available for repairs not covered by homeowner’s insurance for the basic house structure, hot water heater, septic/waste disposal system, doors/windows, extermination services, electrical, plumbing, roofs and wells.

To apply for State Emergency Relief, visit www.michigan.gov/MIBridges. Anyone who does not have internet access or needs assistance applying can contact their local MDHHS office. Or call 2-1-1 to be referred to other community resources.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 27, 2021

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, SutfinL1@michigan.gov

MDHHS provides tips to stay healthy and safe during flood events

LANSING, Mich. – Following the issue of a state of emergency in Wayne County by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in response to flooding and flood warnings, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is providing guidance to Michiganders on how to stay safe and healthy during flood events.

“Flood-affected residents are encouraged to monitor health and safety alerts issued by their local media and local health departments as flooding can create dangerous conditions,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at MDHHS. “Floodwater and standing waters can be dangerous and can make you vulnerable to infectious diseases, chemical hazards and other injuries. MDHHS is providing guidance to help keep Michiganders healthy during flood events.”

If flooding occurs in your area, MDHHS recommends the following actions to protect you and your family:

During floods

• Stay out of flood waters. Flood water moves faster than it appears and can carry debris, which might injure you. Additionally, there is a danger of electrical shock from downed and exposed power lines. Children should never play around high water, storm drains, viaducts or arroyos.
• Avoid driving in flood water as vehicles can easily be swept away. If you are stranded and surrounded by flood waters, wait for rescue personnel rather than attempting to walk or drive through flood waters.
• Flood water can be dangerous to your health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flood water can contain dangerous bacteria and other pollutants, including raw sewage. Flooding can lead to contaminated ground water, drinking water and carry sewage from sewers or septic systems into yards and basements.
  • If flooding does occur in your area, avoid contact with flooded areas and wash up if contact does occur. Listen to public announcements or contact your local health department to find out if your tap water is safe to use.
  • MDHHS encourages Michiganders who get their drinking water from wells to get their well water tested following a flood event. More information is available in this document or by calling the MDHHS Drinking Water Hotline at 844-934-1315.

After floodwaters recede

• Use caution when reentering a home or building that has been flooded. If you can, return to your home during the day so you do not have to use any lights. Use battery-powered flashlights and lanterns, rather than candles, gas lanterns or torches. Do not turn power on or off or use an electric tool or appliance while standing in water. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave the area immediately and notify the gas company or the police or fire departments. Do not return until you are told it is safe to do so.
• If your home has been flooded and has been closed up for several days, CDC cleaning recommendations include washing and sanitizing flooded areas of the home. MDHHS provides recommendations to clean-up visible mold.
• Take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones during cleanup after a flood. When preparing to clean up after flood, make sure you have the right safety gear including hard hats, goggles, N95 masks, waterproof and steel toe boots, earplugs if working with noisy equipment and rubber boots and gloves if sewage contamination is suspected or when using cleaning products such as bleach. While cleaning, work in teams in case you need to move heavy objects, rest as needed and drink water.
• Never use generators, pressure washers or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside your home, basement, garage or even outside near an open window, door or vent. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas from these sources that can cause sudden illness and death.
• If you have any open cuts or sores that were exposed to floodwater, CDC wound care includes washing the wound with soap and water and applying an antibiotic ointment to prevent an infection. Seek immediate medical attention if you become injured or sick.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid electrical lines, debris, insects and wild or stray animals.
• Throw away food that may have come in contact with flood or storm water; perishable foods that have not been refrigerated properly due to power outages; and food with an unusual odor, color or texture. Unsafe food can make you sick even if it looks, smells and tastes normal. When in doubt, throw it out.
• Mosquitoes, which can carry West Nile Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases, breed in standing water. Flood waters can increase the population of mosquitoes and raises the risk for being infected. Regular use of EPA-approved mosquito repellents while outdoors can protect you from mosquitos.
• Take care of your emotional health. During and after a disaster, it is natural to experience different and strong emotions. Coping with these feelings and getting help when you need it will help you, your family and your community recover from a disaster. Individuals in crisis, including those considering suicide, are urged to contact the Disaster Distress Helpline 24/7 at 800-985-5990 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24/7 at 800-273-8255.

For more information, contact MDHHS at 800-648-6942 or your local health department.

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 25, 2021

CONTACT: Chelsea Wuth, 517-214-2112, [email protected]

First mosquito-borne virus of 2021 detected in Michigan mosquitoes
Residents urged to protect against mosquito bites

LANSING, Mich. – Mosquitoes recently collected in Bay, Oakland and Saginaw counties have tested positive for Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of Laboratories (MDHHS BOL). These are the first infected mosquito pools detected for 2021. Residents are reminded that the best way to protect themselves against JCV and other mosquito-borne illnesses, including Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) and West Nile virus (WNV), is to prevent mosquito bites.

Every summer in Michigan, bites from mosquitoes carry the risk of spreading diseases to people and animals. JCV sickened three Michiganders in 2020. Also reported were 32 cases of WNV and four cases of EEE, resulting in two deaths.

The JCV virus is spread to people through bites from infected mosquitoes. Most cases occur from late spring through mid-fall. Illness can develop within a few days to two weeks following a bite from an infected mosquito. While most people do not become ill, initial symptoms can include fever, headache and fatigue. In rare cases, it can cause severe disease in the brain and/or spinal cord including encephalitis and meningitis.

“It only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to cause a severe illness,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy director for health at MDHHS. “We urge Michiganders to take precautions such as using an EPA-registered insect repellent when outdoors, avoiding areas where mosquitoes are present if possible and wearing clothing to cover arms and legs to prevent bites.”

While the JCV is found throughout much of the U.S., cases have been increasing in the Midwest. This likely reflects increased awareness and testing but may also be due to an increase in the presence of the virus in the environment. This is the first year that the MDHHS BOL is offering virus testing of mosquito pools collected by local health departments and county mosquito control programs. Testing is being offered to improve detection and notification of mosquito-borne viruses.

JCV can be spread by mosquitoes that become infected when they feed on deer or other animals that have the virus in their blood. Infected mosquitoes spread the virus to other animals or people through bites. Arboviruses including WNV and EEE virus spread when mosquitoes contract the virus from biting infected birds then biting a human.

Residents can stay healthy by using simple, effective strategies to protect themselves and their families. The following steps are recommended to avoid JCV and other mosquito-borne diseases:

• Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, or other EPA-approved products to exposed skin or clothing. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions for use.
• Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Apply insect repellent to clothing to help prevent bites.
• Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitoes outside.
• Empty water from mosquito breeding sites around the home, such as buckets, unused kiddie pools, old tires or similar sites where mosquitoes lay eggs.

For more information, visit Michigan.gov/EmergingDiseases.