© 2024 MICHIGAN PUBLIC
91.7 Ann Arbor/Detroit 104.1 Grand Rapids 91.3 Port Huron 89.7 Lansing 91.1 Flint
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Michigan doctors using Oakland County measles outbreak as a teachable moment

steve carmody
/
Michigan Radio

Michigan doctors hope to use themeasles outbreak in Oakland Countyto encourage parents to get more children vaccinated.

Michigan ranks near the middle of the pack among states for measles vaccination rates.

Dr. Matt Hornik is the president-elect of the Michigan Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He says they're stepping up their efforts to educate parents and state lawmakers.

“The goal is to try to increase our prevalence in the community as well and to try to fight back and push back against the anti-vax population that has been so vocal,” says Hornik.

Hornik says they hope to use what has worked in other states to increase childhood vaccination rates in Michigan. 

Health officials haveconfirmed eight cases of measles in Oakland County.

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Public since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting.