Read this month’s newsletter for the latest conversations about:
Mental health: Immigrants and other Michigan residents expressed concern about how Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity is impacting mental health.
Opioids: Warnings that naloxone can freeze in cold temperatures sparked conversation about how to store it.
Vaccines: The American Academy of Pediatrics released its 2026 childhood vaccine schedule, conflicting with recent CDC changes and fueling discussion about vaccine safety.
Scroll down for more.
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As ICE activity continues in Michigan and other states, immigrants and people of color are sharing fear and anxiety online.
Some commenters described panic attacks, trouble sleeping, and fear of leaving their homes due to concerns about arrest or family separation.
Why this matters:
With national and local attention on immigration enforcement, you can support your community by sharing mental health resources that meet people’s cultural and language needs.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts or just need to talk to someone, call or text the free 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline any time to talk with a trained counselor in English or Spanish.
Find other free and low-cost mental health resources through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
Warnings that naloxone can freeze generate discussion about storage
What’s happening:
Over the past month, Michigan community organizations, health departments, and local news outlets shared posts and articles warning that naloxone—a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose—may freeze in very cold weather, preventing the medication from leaving the dispenser’s nozzle.
In the comments, people discussed where they get naloxone and shared questions and tips about how and where to store it during the winter.
Why this matters:
With winter weather continuing across Michigan, now is a key time to share clear, practical information about accessing and storing naloxone.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
Naloxone, often sold under the brand name Narcan, can freeze at temperatures below 5 degrees Fahrenheit. To prevent freezing, avoid leaving naloxone outdoors or in your car in cold weather. Store it at room temperature or refrigerated (between 36 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit).
If you carry naloxone outside, keep it close to your body in a pocket or bag to help keep it warm.
Naloxone that was previously frozen can still be used. Let it thaw at room temperature for at least 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you can press down on the plunger.
If you think someone is overdosing, immediately call 911 before administering naloxone.
Naloxone, aka Narcan, is medication that anyone can use to reverse an opioid overdose. It freezes at temperatures below 5 degrees Fahrenheit, preventing it from working. Naloxone that was previously frozen can still be used. Let it thaw at room temperature for at least 15 minutes. If you think someone is overdosing, call 911 right away. Anyone can get naloxone for free in Michigan. Find nearby options at Michigan.gov/Opioids/Find-Help.
Michigan social media users have continued expressing mixed views on childhood immunizations since the CDC scaled back the number of recommended vaccines in early January.
The conversation picked up after the American Academy of Pediatrics released its 2026 childhood vaccine schedule, which continues to recommend immunization against 18 diseases for all children.
Some commenters repeated long-standing myths that vaccines cause illness, while others emphasized that vaccines are important for children’s health.
Why this matters:
Conflicting vaccine recommendations are creating persistent confusion, with some Michigan residents wondering what vaccines their child needs. You can fight confusion and false claims by explaining why the state continues to follow the AAP’s evidence-based childhood vaccine schedule.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services continues to follow the schedule recommended by the AAP. The schedule is based on decades of research and supported by major medical organizations.
Michigan parents can still follow the AAP schedule, even with recent changes to CDC guidance. Most private insurance plans and government programs continue to cover recommended childhood vaccines.
Vaccines help kids stay healthy by protecting against diseases that can cause severe illness, long-term health problems, or death. When vaccination rates drop, more children are at risk for preventable diseases like measles and whooping cough.
Have questions about the vaccine schedule for your child? Your pediatrician is a great resource.
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Parents in Michigan can still follow the AAP’s vaccine schedule, even with recent changes to CDC guidance. It’s the best way to keep kids healthy, which is why Michigan health officials continue to follow the AAP’s recommendations. Routine childhood vaccines will be covered by most private insurance companies and government programs. For more information, talk to your pediatrician or visit bit.ly/aap-schedule to see the AAP’s schedule.
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.
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