LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – A coalition of health care providers, public health agencies, and advocacy organizations launched a new statewide effort Wednesday aimed at promoting vaccination and defending vaccine access in Michigan.
The group, called Michigan for Vaccines, says it was formed in response to declining vaccination rates and concerns about the return of vaccine-preventable diseases.
The coalition includes physicians, public health leaders, community organizations, and family advocates who say they want to provide science-based information about vaccines while advocating for policies that maintain access to immunizations.
The launch comes as vaccines remain a subject of political and cultural debate across the country. While health officials continue to recommend routine vaccinations, many families remain skeptical of vaccine requirements, public health institutions, or government involvement in health decisions.
During the coalition’s launch event in Lansing, organizers repeatedly emphasized that their goal is not to force vaccination decisions but to encourage conversations between families and trusted medical professionals.
“We are not trying to force you to do anything that you don’t want to do,” said Dr. Lauren Azevedo, a pediatrician and president-elect of the Michigan Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “We want to have a conversation focused on education, focused on facts, and helping you with shared decision making to make those decisions for your children.”
The event also featured parents who shared personal stories about losing children to vaccine-preventable diseases.
“No parent should ever have to lose a child to a vaccine preventable disease that we have the tools to prevent,” said Veronica McNally of the Franny Strong Foundation.
Organizers said the coalition also plans to play an active role in policy discussions at the state Capitol.
“We’re really most focused on making sure that policymakers are hearing from the majority of their constituents,” said Amy Zaagman, executive director of the Michigan Council for Maternal and Child Health.
Michigan for Vaccines says it will coordinate education and advocacy efforts among member organizations while providing information to lawmakers and the public on immunization issues.
