You’re likely seeing headlines today about the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s updated website, which now promotes false information that vaccines may be linked to autism.
That’s why we’re opening this newsletter with resources from the Download Center to help you push back on vaccine myths in your community.
We’ll continue to monitor how the CDC’s updated messaging is impacting public opinion on vaccine safety in Michigan. We’re also tracking the latest local conversations about…
Family planning, STIs/STDs: The Michigan State Board of Education recently adopted new health education guidelines, leading to false claims about age-appropriate sex education and questions from parents about the importance of early education.
Gun violence: Michigan school shooting threats prompted discussion about how to report potential dangers to student safety.
Vaccines: Confusion about RSV vaccine eligibility emerged in response to changing federal vaccine guidance.
Scroll down to read more.
Vaccines
Breaking: Without evidence, CDC changes messaging on vaccines and autism
On November 19, the CDC updated its website to promote false claims that childhood vaccines may be linked to autism. However, major medical organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics say that vaccines don’t cause autism, a fact confirmed by decades of research.
As myths about autism continue to create doubt in vaccines, sharing accurate information right now is crucial. Here are science-backed resources to share with your community:
Find more resources debunking autism myths on the Download Center.
Family planning, STIs/STDs
New Michigan sex education standards generate debate about age-appropriate instruction
What’s happening:
On November 13, the Michigan State Board of Education approved updated health and sex education standards that include gender-inclusive language and age-based instruction on topics like hygiene, puberty, consent, STIs, and healthy relationships.
Before the vote, some social media users falsely claimed that elementary school students would be taught about STIs and contraception and that comprehensive sex education encourages early sexual activity.
After the vote, many said that parents—not schools—should decide what’s age-appropriate sex education.
Why this matters:
Some caregivers may not know that these lessons are tailored by age and focus on helping kids understand their changing bodies, personal boundaries, and overall well-being.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
Under Michigan’s updated health education standards, elementary school students learn age-appropriate lessons on bullying, boundaries, healthy eating, exercise, puberty, and hygiene.
School districts can choose to adopt the new curriculum, and parents still have the right to opt their children out of sex education or other health topics.
Experts, including pediatricians, recommend starting lessons on consent by age 5 to help kids understand safe and unsafe touch.
There is no evidence that comprehensive sex education encourages teens to have sex earlier. In fact, students who get this education are more likely to delay sex and to use safer sex barriers.
Comprehensive health and sex education can also help prevent sexual abuse by giving kids tools to set boundaries and speak up.
Share this in response
Suggested caption:
Health and sex education looks different at every age. In early grades, kids learn about healthy bodies and minds and how to respect personal space. Pediatricians recommend that children start learning about consent by age 5 to help kids recognize safe and unsafe touch. Michigan’s new sex education guidelines make sure lessons reflect what kids and teens need now.
Michigan commenters express concern about school shooting threats
What’s happening:
In late September, social media users discussed a Michigan teen charged with stealing her mother’s gun from a locked safe and planning a school shooting, sparking ongoing conversation.
Meanwhile, in late October, a Michigan mother expressed frustration that her child’s school didn’t take a potential threat seriously.
In response, commenters called for stronger interventions from both schools and parents to help prevent school violence. Some also questioned whether Michigan’s OK2SAY tip line is effective.
Why this matters:
These conversations highlight ongoing fears about school safety and a desire for clear guidance on how families and schools can work together to protect students.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
OK2SAY is Michigan’s confidential tip line for reporting anything that threatens student or school safety. That includes concerns about gun access, bullying, mental health, substance use, or other harm.
Every tip matters. OK2SAY has helped stop school attacks, prevent suicide, and connect students to help—often before adults knew there was a problem.
OK2SAY is confidential. No names are needed; students, parents, and others can safely share concerns without fear of retaliation or getting someone “in trouble.”
Share this in response
Suggested caption:
Michigan’s confidential OK2SAY tip line is available to report any danger to student safety, including gun-related threats, bullying, and more. If you hear of anything that could put students at risk, call 855-565-2729 or text 652729 (OK2SAY).
Post highlights confusion about who can get an RSV vaccine in Michigan
What’s happening:
Early this month, a Reddit user in a pharmacy group asked about RSV vaccine eligibility in Michigan.
The post sparked confusion and conversation about who should get vaccinated this season.
Why this matters:
Confusion about RSV immunization eligibility is ongoing. Encouraging eligible groups to get vaccinated now—before cases rise—is critical for preventing serious illness and stopping the spread.
Children 8 to 19 months with certain health risks.
Adults 75 and older.
Adults 50 to 74 with conditions like heart or lung disease.
Pregnant people between 32 and 36 weeks in September through January.
The best time to get protected is now, before cases rise.
You can get an RSV immunization from a health care provider or at some pharmacies.
Share this in response
Suggested caption:
The flu, RSV, and COVID-19 can be dangerous, especially for babies, older adults, and immunocompromised people. Help protect your family this season by getting recommended vaccines. Vaccines and immunizations are available from health care providers and at many pharmacies.
The grassroots sex-ed site that’s earned trust online for almost 30 years
The founder of Scarleteen, a sex-ed website for teens, offers lessons in making health information accessible. Share this story to help your community learn where teens are looking for answers and how to help them get accurate sexual health information.
Public Good News is a nonprofit newsroom dedicated to community health. We partner with trusted local voices throughout the U.S. to distribute accurate, accessible, and inclusive health news in English and Spanish.
