Updates About Public Health

On October 20, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced a change in blood lead data available for Michigan children. In May 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their blood lead reference value (BLRV) from 5 ug/dL to 3.5 ug/dL. In response, MDHHS changed its definition to match the CDC.

In 2021, more than 3,400 Michigan children had an elevated blood level of 3.5 ug/dL or higher. More than half of those children had a blood level of 5 ug/dL or higher. Detection at a lower reference level will help identify more children who need public health services and further medical evaluation. It is also helpful for identifying communities that need prioritized interventions to reduce lead exposure.

Elevated blood lead level tracking is available online through Michigan Environmental Public Health Tracking (MiTracking) for those with a blood lead of 3.5 ug/dL or higher. Data is available at the state, county, and local health department, and zip code levels.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is launching a Test to Treat program at thirteen locations across the state. These sites will offer no-cost COVID-19 testing and oral medications in an effort to reduce hospitalizations and support faster recoveries, as well as on-site telehealth services for those that are positive for COVID-19.

Specific criteria were used in selecting communities offering telehealth services. Communities with a High Social Vulnerability Index, a high percentage of people over the age of fifty having tested at the site, limited access to health care sites outside of emergency departments, and high testing rates were considered when identifying the neighborhood sites.

Michigan is the first state nationwide to implement this federal initiative at neighborhood testing sites. Locations can be found here.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is promoting Michigan’s new crisis hotline as a part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The hotline provides 24/7 live one-on-one crisis support for victims and survivors, as well as support people and professionals. The hotline is free and provides local support through trained advocates who are available to call, text, or chat online. All hotline services can be accessed here.