Kent County Health Department Newsletter - September 2025

We hear concerns every year that the influenza vaccine is not effective. While it is less successful at completely preventing illness compared to other vaccines—for example, two doses of the measles vaccine are up to 97% effective—the influenza vaccine is up to 80% effective at preventing serious illness in vulnerable populations. We also hear many people say that they received the influenza vaccine and then became sick with the flu immediately thereafter. This can happen, but it doesn’t mean the vaccine caused the illness. The body needs time to respond, and it can take up to two weeks to build full protection after vaccination. In most cases, those who become sick soon after vaccination were exposed to the virus before or shortly after receiving their shot.

Another common question is why the influenza vaccine is recommended every year when most other vaccines are needed far less frequently. The answer is that influenza is caused by many strains of virus, and the predominant strain can shift from one year to the next. Researchers study what is happening in other parts of the world before deciding on an influenza vaccine that most closely fits the current threat. That’s why annual vaccination is so important. Please join us in getting the influenza vaccine this fall. While you’re at it, ask your provider if you are caught up on all other vaccinations. By doing so, you help protect yourself, your family, and our community—and ensure we are better prepared to face health emergencies together. If you have questions or concerns, please talk with your physician.

Adam London, PhD, RS, DAAS
Administrative Health Officer

As the weather turns cooler and crisper, more of us spend time indoors, often in closer proximity to family, friends, and classmates. This makes it easier for viruses and bacteria to spread—especially among children who aren’t fully vaccinated. September is the perfect time to review your family’s vaccine status and speak with your provider about what's recommended—before cold and flu season peaks!

Whether it’s severe weather, a power outage, or a public health emergency, a little planning now can make a big difference when the unexpected occurs. Here in Kent County, many emergencies are weather-related, but we can also face other hazards like infrastructure failures and supply chain disruptions. The good news? We have a strong network of people working together behind the scenes to keep our community safe.

In her role here, Sydney analyzes overdose-related data, co-chairs the Kent County Opioid Task Force, and coordinates the Overdose Fatality Review. She also attends community events to distribute Narcan and testing strips for fentanyl, xylazine, and medetomidine.  Sydney loves the balance of digging into data while also engaging with the community.

“All members of our community deserve to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion—and everyone deserves access to the resources that help keep them alive,” Sydney shared. “I feel very lucky to work in a role and field that aligns with these values.”

Sydney says she is energized by the deep partnerships and incredible momentum around overdose prevention in Kent County. Meeting new people and learning the local landscape has been both a challenge and a rewarding part of her first few months.

Outside of work, Sydney enjoys nature, crafting, reading, baking, live music, and caring for her two cats. She recently began walking dogs at the nearby Kent County Animal Shelter during her afternoon breaks, which she says is “so much fun!”

Please join us in giving Sydney a warm welcome!

In Kent County, Arbor Circle has been selected to receive Opioid Settlement Funds to increase access to peer recovery coaches in the community.  This funding has allowed Arbor Circle to hire two new full-time coaches and a part-time supervisor.  The new staff will provide access to coaching services across multiple points of care, including health systems, clinics, and community-based organizations and build connections to ensure that partners who engage with those in need of coaching services can easily refer individuals to the program. The demand for recovery support in Kent County currently exceeds existing capacity and these new positions enhance local efforts to assist individuals with substance use disorder on their path to recovery.

With these new resources in place, Kent County continues to strengthen its commitment to supporting recovery and ensuring that no one faces the journey alone.

Our Board of Commissioners is seeking residents interested in serving through appointment to Community Heath Advisory Committee, where there's currently one position open. Important roles like these offer meaningful opportunities for residents to help shape county policies and make a real impact.

Here are some key tips from the the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to keep your septic system running smoothly:

• Think at the sink: Don’t pour fats, oils, or grease down drains, and avoid flushing wipes or other non-degradable items.
• Conserve water: Spread out laundry loads, fix leaks, and use high-efficiency fixtures to reduce strain on your system.
• Inspect and pump regularly: Have your system checked every three years and pumped every three to five years to prevent clogs.
• Protect your drain field: Keep vehicles off it, plant trees away from it, and direct roof drains and sump pumps elsewhere.
• Keep it simple: Only flush human waste and toilet paper—your septic system isn’t a trash can.

Be SepticSmart this September and help prevent costly repairs and environmental issues! If you'd like to learn more, visit the EPA's website.

Chris Stewart’s consistency, reliability, and strong work ethic have been a cornerstone of our clinic’s success for more than thirty years. She's been a steady presence, guiding teams and clients alike through periods of change with grace and dedication.

Recently, a former Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) client shared how Chris’s kindness and encouragement made all the difference during some particularly challenging appointments. Years later, that client still remembers the reassurance and support Chris offered, and how it enriched her experience with us.

Through decades of growth and change, Chris has remained a trusted and valued part of clinics. Her loyalty and contributions have left a lasting impact that cannot be measured in time alone—but rather—lives touched, teams strengthened, and countless moments of consistency.

Please be aware that several services have been temporarily relocated within our existing facilities due to renovations occurring at our main clinic, located at 700 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

The renovation project, slated for completion by early 2026, aims to enhance patient confidentiality and expand service capacity by adding separate waiting rooms, exam rooms, and soundproofing.

Are you a reporter or member of the media and see something you'd like to cover? Reach out to Christina Anthony, Marketing and Communications Manager, for quotes, interviews, background information, or anything else you may need to tell your story:

• Phone - 724-691-5120
• Email - christina.anthony@kentcountymi.gov

Have a story idea or partnership pitch? We love collaborating with those who share our passion for public health. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always open to new ways to inform, connect, and serve Kent County.