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Hi there,
On April 19, 2023 the CDC updated its COVID-19 vaccine recommendations to simplify guidance. Here is a basic low-down:
- What has changed:
- Monovalent (original) COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are no longer available for use.
- Adults aged 65 and older can get an additional COVID-19 vaccine dose, at least four months after their initial updated (bivalent) vaccine dose.
- Immunocompromised individuals 6 years+ may receive an additional bivalent dose two months after their previous dose, and additional doses after that per recommendation from their healthcare provider.
- What has not changed:
- Everyone age 6 years and older is recommended to receive an updated (bivalent) COVID-19 vaccine if they haven’t already.
- The number of doses will vary by age, previous vaccines received and presence of being immunocompromised.
It’s important to clarify that the original (monovalent) COVID-19 vaccine is no longer authorized in the United States not because it is unsafe, or ineffective. However, the updated (bivalent) vaccine is proving to be more effective against the virus strains that are circulating now. The change also simplifies the vaccination schedule for most individuals, so that one version is recommended for all uses. Our Nurse on Call is available at 1-800-848-5533 (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.) for questions.
Have you completed our Community Health Survey yet? We encourage Oakland County residents to express your thoughts about your community’s health through this important survey. Help us spread the word and ensure all residents have a voice in building healthier communities!
As we get closer to summer, I invite you to try a new activity or just enjoy the day in nature at one of Oakland County Parks during their FREE Restore in the Outdoors event May 6-7. Park entry is free with access to trails, dog parks, playgrounds and more!
Be Well,
Dr. Calandra Green, Health Officer, Oakland County
Take action, don’t lose your Medicaid coverage!
Michigan is conducting its first Medicaid Renewal in three years which affects about 90,000 Oakland County residents. Oakland County and its community partners are urging residents who are enrolled in Medicaid to participate in Michigan’s Medicaid renewal process to avoid any potential gaps in healthcare coverage. You can read the full press release HERE.
Those enrolled in Medicaid need to update their address, phone number, and email address in MI Bridges as soon as possible to receive their renewal packet. They also need to note any changes to their household or income. People who have Medicaid need to check their mail, email, or text to make sure they do not miss their renewal paperwork.
Michigan will send renewal notices three months prior to a beneficiaries’ renewal date beginning with June renewal dates. To maintain coverage, residents enrolled in Medicaid must fill out a renewal form which the state will send by mail. Individuals who do not turn in their renewal forms by the due date risk losing their Medicaid coverage.
Residents may go to the six Oakland County Michigan Works! offices in Novi, Pontiac, Oak Park, Southfield, Troy, and Waterford to get assistance with the Medicaid renewal. Also, community organizations like Jewish Family Services, Centro Multicultural La Familia, and ACCESS will assist residents with Medicaid renewal and, if necessary, help them find an affordable health plan.
Residents who find they are no longer eligible for Medicaid should take the next step to enroll in a healthcare plan at HealthCare.gov.
For more information on the Medicaid renewal, go to MI Bridges. Residents who do not have access to the Internet may call the MDHHS Beneficiary Help Line at 800-642-3195.
Senior Market FRESH offer produce coupons to older adults
During Older Americans Month, we want to highlight Senior Market FRESH, a program aimed to help older adults eat healthier. Senior Market FRESH gives coupons to eligible older adults to purchase Michigan grown fruits, vegetables, herbs and honey from local farmers markets and farm stands.
To qualify, you must:
- Be at least 60 years old.
- Applicants must live in the county participating in the program.
- Have a total household income no greater than 185% of poverty.
The program runs from May to October and coupons will be distributed to those who qualify through a variety of outreach events and partnerships.
Want an opportunity to spend Senior Market FRESH coupons? Check out these future events:
2023 Senior Market Days in Oakland County:
- Wednesday, Aug. 23, 9am-1:30pm Oak Park Farmers Market
- Thursday, Sept. 7, 8 am-1pm Oakland County Farmers Marketin Waterford
- Saturday, Sept. 9, 8-1pm Farmington Farmers Market
For more information, Oakland County residents can call 248-215-6307 or email dantor@oakgov.com.
Stay healthy this tick season
Tick-borne diseases, particularly Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, are increasing across the state as weather warms. Ticks can be active when the weather is above 40⁰F. Learn how to stay healthy this tick season.
How can I prevent tick bites?
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Know where to expect ticks. Ticks live in grassy, brushy, or wooded areas, or even on animals. Avoid wooded and brushy areas with high grass and leaf litter. Walk in the center of trails.
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Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD) or 2-undecanone. Always follow product instructions. Do not use products containing OLE or PMD on children under 3 years old. Treat clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin, but do not use permethrin on skin.
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Check your body for ticks after being outdoors. Conduct a full body check upon return from potentially tick-infested areas, including your own backyard.
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Check your clothing, gear, and pets for ticks. Ticks can be carried into the home on clothing and pets, then attach to a person later, so carefully examine pets, coats, and daypacks.
Not all ticks spread the same germs. MDHHS can help to identify ticks you may encounter outdoors. Residents can email photos of ticks to MDHHS-Bugs@michigan.gov for identification or submit ticks to MDHHS for identification.
For more information on how to submit your tick and/or photos and information on ticks, visit Michigan.gov/Lyme.
You can also visit the Tick information page to learn more, including what to do if a tick is attached to your skin.
Asian-American, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Asian-American, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) Heritage Month takes place in May. The Office of Minority Health (OMH) is providing trusted resources and ways you can celebrate and recognize AA and NHPI individuals and communities:
Get connected to mental health support resources
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national movement to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and its impact on the well-being of children, adults, families, and communities. Learn more about mental health support and resources in Oakland County including:
We also want to thank the dedicated mental health providers and community partners who help support the mental health of individuals and families in Oakland County!
Health Division Flu & COVID-19 vaccination info
Check out our webpage page for information about COVID, flu, and other vaccinations and eligibility. Appointments are recommended and can be made online or by calling our Nurse on Call hotline at 1- 800-848-5533 (Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.).
Oakgov.com/health is the best place to receive the latest information. Add, update, or opt out of Health Division email or text communications by clicking here.
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