Read this month’s newsletter to see the latest local conversations about…
Vaccines: False claims about the hepatitis B vaccine fueled widespread doubt about whether newborns should get vaccinated. Plus, new measles cases in Michigan prompted questions about how to keep communities safe.
Gun violence: After the Michigan Senate passed new gun bills, social media users discussed the state’s “red flag” law.
Opioids: Social media users asked questions about Michigan’s Angel Program, which connects people to SUD treatment.
Scroll down to read more.
Plus, check out the Download Center for free, ready-made content to share with your communities. Content is available in English, Spanish, and Arabic.
Vaccines
False claims about the hepatitis B vaccine spread widely
What’s happening:
In a June 30 interview, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. falsely claimed that a CDC study found that the hepatitis B vaccine increases the risk of autism.
Kennedy’s false claim spread nationally, and some Michigan-based social media users falsely claimed that the hepatitis B vaccine is unsafe and unnecessary for infants.
Why this matters:
Kennedy made this false claim shortly after the first meeting of the CDC’s new vaccine advisory panel, where the panel’s chair questioned whether newborns should receive any vaccines. As U.S. vaccine policy shifts, this is a critical moment to correct common vaccine myths.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
The hepatitis B vaccine helps protect against a viral liver infection that can cause serious health problems, like cancer or even death. Babies are especially vulnerable.
Babies can get hepatitis B during birth or from infected adults at home—even if those adults don’t show symptoms. About half of people with hepatitis B don’t know they have it but can still spread the virus.
The hepatitis B vaccine is safe, does not cause autism, and gives your baby early protection starting from day one. All newborns should get their first dose within 24 hours of birth.
Share this in response
Suggested caption:
Your baby can’t ask for protection—but you can give it. Hepatitis B can lead to lifelong illness, liver cancer, or even death. Babies are especially vulnerable.
The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and starts protecting your baby from day one. Make sure they get their first dose within 24 hours of birth.
In response to social media posts promoting the measles, mumps, rubella vaccine, some Michigan-based social media users falsely claimed that the vaccine causes measles and that measles isn’t serious. Others asked questions about who needs the MMR vaccine, measles symptoms, and what to do if they’ve been exposed.
Why this matters:
Measles cases in the U.S. have hit the highest number in 33 years. While cases in Michigan remain low compared to outbreaks in other states, early education about the disease is key to prevent it from spreading.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
Measles is a serious disease that typically starts with a fever, followed by a cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash of tiny red spots.
Symptoms usually appear seven to 14 days after exposure, but they can take up to 21 days to show up.
Unvaccinated people who are exposed to measles have a 90 percent chance of getting sick, and they can spread the virus to others even if they don’t have a rash yet.
If you’re unvaccinated and are exposed to measles, you can reduce your risk of getting sick by getting the MMR vaccine within 72 hours or taking a medication called immune globulin within six days.
If you or someone in your family may have been exposed to measles or has symptoms, stay home and call a health care provider right away to determine next steps.
Share this in response
Suggested caption:
Measles can cause serious health problems, especially in kids. Symptoms usually appear seven to 14 days after exposure, but they can take up to 21 days to show up. Getting two doses of the MMR vaccine now is the best way to prevent measles. Unvaccinated people who are exposed to the disease have a 90 percent chance of getting sick.
New Michigan gun bills renew debate over red flag laws
What’s happening:
On June 25, the Michigan Senate passed multiple gun regulation bills, including bills that would ban bump stocks, ghost guns, and bringing guns into legislative buildings. Governor Gretchen Whitmer shared a social media post celebrating the news as the legislation moves to the Michigan House of Representatives.
In response, several commenters discussed failed attempts to repeal Michigan’s red flag law, also called the Extreme Risk Protection Order law, which allows police to temporarily confiscate firearms from people who may be a threat to themselves or others. While some supported the law, others suggested that it is unnecessary and unconstitutional.
Why this matters:
Conversation about Michigan’s red flag law provides an opportunity to educate the public about how certain policies can prevent gun violence.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
Under Michigan’s red flag law, if you have a family or household member who could be at risk of hurting themself or others, you can request an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO).
ERPOs temporarily remove a person’s access to guns and prevent them from purchasing one, and they require a judge’s approval. They’re one way to help keep your family safe.
If you’re in immediate danger, call 911.
Share this in response
Suggested caption:
Under Michigan’s “red flag” law, a judge may temporarily block someone from having and buying guns if they’re at high risk of harming themself or someone else. Family members, law enforcement, and others can request this by filing an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) petition online. ERPOs are designed to prevent tragedies before they can happen. To learn more or fill out an ERPO, go to firearminjury.umich.edu/mi-erpo-filing.
If you are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you are experiencing a crisis, please text or call 988.
Social media users ask questions about Michigan’s Angel Program
What’s happening:
Last month, the Michigan State Police shared a social media post promoting the state’s Angel Program, which allows anyone struggling with substance use disorder to walk into an MSP post and get help finding treatment without being arrested for drug or alcohol use or current possession.
Commenters expressed support for the program and asked what people can expect when they seek help at an MSP post. Some said they were not aware of the program.
Why this matters:
These conversations provide an opportunity to inform your community about local SUD treatment resources.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
In Michigan, you can walk into any Michigan State Police post during business hours and seek help for substance use without fear of being arrested for substance use or current possession.
You’ll be guided through an SUD assessment and treatment intake process. Then a program volunteer will drive you to a treatment facility.
All of your hepatitis B vaccine questions answered
Hepatitis B can be dangerous, especially in babies. Share this story to inform your community about how the hepatitis B vaccine gives newborns early protection.
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.
