Read this month’s newsletter to see the latest local conversations about…
Vaccines: Rising whooping cough cases in Michigan were met with false claims that the illness is not dangerous.
STIs/STDs: Michigan’s surge in STIs sparked confusion about who is at risk.
Opioids: Local naloxone distribution efforts generated debate about harm reduction.
Gun violence: A shooting in Florida in April prompted national and local conversation about safe gun storage.
Scroll down to read more.
Vaccines
Spike in Michigan whooping cough cases fuels false claims about vaccines
What’s happening:
Last month, Michigan reported a massive spike in whooping cough cases, which experts attribute to declining vaccination rates.
In response to posts encouraging vaccination, some social media users falsely claimed that whooping cough is not dangerous and that whooping cough vaccines are unnecessary and ineffective.
Why this matters:
Whooping cough can cause serious health complications, and cases are rising in Michigan. Circulating information about whooping cough vaccines is key to curbing this dangerous trend, especially as cases tend to peak in summer and fall.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
Whooping cough, also called pertussis, is a preventable respiratory illness that can cause serious problems and even death, especially in babies.
It starts like a cold but can progress to coughing fits that can cause vomiting, breathing problems, fatigue, trouble sleeping, and broken ribs.
Anyone with symptoms should contact a health care provider right away for antibiotics.
Two vaccines offer protection: the DTaP vaccine for babies and children through 6 years, and the Tdap vaccine for ages 7 and up, including adults.
DTaP and Tdap vaccines are available through some health care providers, local health departments, and many pharmacies.
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Suggested caption:
Whooping cough (or pertussis) can cause long-term symptoms and even death, and it’s especially dangerous for babies. Fortunately, two vaccines offer protection: the DTaP vaccine for babies and children through 6 years, and the Tdap vaccine for ages 7 and up, including adults. Whooping cough vaccines are available through some health care providers, local health departments, and many pharmacies.
Michigan’s surge in STIs generates confusion about who is at risk
What’s happening:
Several local media outlets recently reported that the state is seeing the highest rates of STIs in 30 years. Rates of congenital syphilis, which is passed from pregnant people to their babies, have also increased.
Some social media users called for educational campaigns on safer sex, and a few debated whether condoms protect against STIs. Others claimed without evidence that immigrants are responsible for the state’s uptick in STIs and falsely suggested that STIs only impact certain racial and gender groups.
Why this matters:
These conversations show widespread confusion about how to protect against STIs and who is at risk of contracting one.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
STIs are infections that anyone can contract through sexual activity involving the mouth, genitals, or anus.
Untreated STIs can lead to serious health issues—syphilis can damage organs, and HIV requires lifelong care.
You can lower your risk by using safer sex barriers like condoms, talking to partners about their sexual history, getting tested regularly, and taking PrEP, a daily medication that protects against HIV.
For questions, call the Michigan HIV/STI Hotline at 1-800-872-2437 or chat online weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Suggested caption:
Anyone who has sexual contact with others can get an STI. Fortunately, most STIs resolve quickly with treatment. Learn where to get tested by calling the Michigan HIV/STI Hotline at 1-800-872-2437 on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Social media users push back against Michigan efforts to distribute free naloxone
What’s happening:
This month, Kent County paramedics began distributing harm reduction kits to people they treat who are at risk of overdosing. The kits include naloxone, instructions for use, and a QR code that connects people to substance use disorder resources.
More naloxone vending machines are emerging throughout Michigan. Samaritan Way Newaygo recently installed one in Fremont, and Cass Family Clinic has installed naloxone vending machines in Cass and Niles. Another will be installed in Dowagiac this summer.
In response, some social media users praised these efforts, noting that naloxone saves lives, while others falsely suggested that naloxone enables drug use.
Why this matters:
Naloxone is a lifesaving harm reduction tool that frequently draws criticism due to stigma associated with drug use.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
Naloxone—often sold under the brand name Narcan—is a medication that can reverse opioid overdose.
Bystanders witnessing a possible overdose should dial 911, administer naloxone, and stay with the person until first responders arrive.
Naloxone is safe to administer even if the person isn’t overdosing or isn’t overdosing on opioids.
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Suggested caption:
Anyone can get free naloxone, a medication that reverses opioid overdose. Organizations across the state are working to make naloxone free for anyone who wants it. Visit Michigan.gov/Opioids/Find-Help to find free naloxone near you.
State conversations reflect on FSU shooting and call for safe gun storage
What’s happening:
Since April, national and Michigan media outlets have been reporting on a shooting at Florida State University, which killed two people and injured five others. A survivor of the 2023 Michigan State University shooting was also present.
Social media posts responding to the articles expressed sadness about the prevalence of mass shootings, and some discussed ways to prevent shootings and accidental gun deaths, such as practicing safe gun storage.
Why this matters:
Conversations about gun deaths provide an opportunity to remind Michigan residents about gun storage laws.
Helpful messaging to share right now:
Under Michigan law, gun owners must store their firearms in a locked container and/or unloaded and locked with a locking device when children may be in the home.
Michigan also requires gun owners who keep a gun in their car to either store the gun in a locked container or keep the gun unloaded and locked with a locking device. The vehicle must also be locked.
You can get free gun safety kits and trigger locks from Project ChildSafe. Plus, teach your children to never touch guns and to get help from an adult if they see a gun that is not locked away.
Whooping cough is spreading rapidly in Michigan. Inform your community that this disease can be dangerous and that vaccination is the best way to stay healthy.
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.
