More than 800,000 Michigan children ages 5 to 11 are now eligible for Pfizer’s COVID vaccine. But a good portion of parents who are otherwise supportive of COVID vaccines are hesitating. Their doctors are ready to talk.
Michigan Health Watch
In-depth reporting on the intersection between public policy and important health topics ‒ such as insurance coverage, hospital admissions, opioid abuse, access to care, medical research and the business of health care ‒ that impact nearly every Michigan resident.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
CDC approves COVID vaccine for kids 5 to 11, shots available immediately
The CDC’s advisory committee voted unanimously Tuesday to allow the Pfizer vaccine to be given to younger children. Michigan already has 278,000 doses ready for kids.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Sparrow nurses without contract say 'critically low' staffing puts patients at risk
Bitter fights over whether hospitals are doing enough to retain and recruit health care workers have intensified during the pandemic, as shortages reach a crisis point.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Monoclonal antibody treatment gains ground in Michigan’s COVID fight
The lab-made treatment has expanded beyond people with mild cases of COVID. It’s now also used to shield high-risk groups from contracting the virus.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
COVID vaccine for kids 5 to 11 clears another federal hurdle
The FDA authorized the Pfizer pediatric vaccine Friday, following recommendations from its advisory committee. Next up: CDC consideration Tuesday, which means the vaccine could be authorized for young children by the end of next week.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
COVID vaccine for 825,000 Michigan children nearer to federal approval
The Pfizer pediatric vaccine, shown as 91 percent effective for children 5 to 11, cleared an FDA advisory panel Tuesday. Gov. Whitmer is seeking to expedite shipment of the vaccine, which could be approved by next week.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Michigan private insurers no longer waiving costs for COVID treatment
Hospitalized patients, who are largely unvaccinated, may now face thousands of dollars in deductibles, copays and other out-of-pocket fees. With vaccines broadly available, nearly all large insurers have ended cost waivers.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Federal authorities to weigh COVID vaccine for children 5 to 11 Tuesday
More than 800,000 Michigan children are in this age group. Pfizer says its vaccine is 91 percent effective in keeping young children free of COVID-19. If approved, young children may be eligible for vaccines by early November.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Where to get COVID vaccine boosters in Michigan
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has now authorized boosters for all three, U.S.-approved COVID vaccines. Getting one should be a snap for any eligible person seeking added protection against the deadly virus.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
370 Beaumont workers suspended for refusing COVID vaccines. 70 more quit.
The health system’s announcement Thursday follows similar action taken by Henry Ford Health System for workers’ failure to abide by a COVID vaccine mandate. Other hospitals will likely follow suit once federal vaccine rules are finalized.