Michigan’s Vaccine Guidance Clarified
The chief medical executive in Michigan has released new guidance aimed at clarifying the confusion surrounding this year’s COVID-19 booster for both vaccine providers and residents.
According to the guidance, anyone older than six months who has not yet received the 2025-2026 vaccine, and has no contraindications, is considered eligible for vaccination due to underlying conditions. Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian emphasized that simply not being vaccinated qualifies as an underlying condition. She pointed to research indicating that last year’s booster helped reduce the risk of severe illness by 33%, and the risk of hospitalization by 45%.
“National medical organizations and experts recommend routine COVID-19 vaccinations for those at high risk, but vaccines should also be accessible to everyone aged six months and older,” Bagdasarian mentioned. She added, “As the state’s chief medical executive, it’s my responsibility to promote public health. Everyone should have the chance to get a COVID-19 vaccine if they wish.”
On September 19, she issued a standing recommendation regarding the vaccine, clarifying that it was not a mandate but rather aimed at providing support and clarity for providers.
“This helps (providers) interpret the FDA label and indicate, ‘Yes, you’re at higher risk, and we feel comfortable because this aligns with best practices in Michigan based on this standing recommendation,’” she explained.
U.S. Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. emphasized that vaccines will remain available for all patients after they discuss their options with their doctors. Yet, in late August, federal regulators set new limitations on eligibility for the most recent COVID vaccines. They restricted access to those aged 65 and older or individuals with health conditions that heighten their risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
Unfortunately, the regulators did not provide a comprehensive list of underlying conditions, referencing a CDC list that is also unclear. This mixed messaging and vague eligibility criteria have led to confusion among those seeking a booster this fall, prompting Bagdasarian’s official recommendation.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services maintains support for COVID booster shots for anyone over six months old, with some exceptions, such as those with vaccine allergies or conditions preventing vaccination.
This advice is in line with recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Dr. Susan Kressly, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, warned that any obstacles to COVID-19 vaccination pose a significant risk for children and their families, particularly as respiratory virus season approaches. Infants and toddlers are particularly vulnerable due to their developing airways and lungs.
Recently, Governor Gretchen Whitmer instructed state agencies to eliminate barriers that might hinder vaccine access for residents wanting to get vaccinated. This includes ensuring that all state-regulated health insurance plans will cover vaccines to the fullest extent possible.
For more details on COVID vaccines and access, you can contact your primary care physician or visit Michigan.gov/coronavirus.
