Michigan health department issues order to distribute COVID-19 vaccines at nursing homes
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services issued an epidemic order that offers on-site COVID-19 vaccines to residents in nursing homes.
“With the Omicron variant rapidly spreading across our state and cases of COVID-19 continuing to remain high, we want to make sure our most vulnerable Michiganders are protected from the virus,” said Elizabeth Hertel, MDHHS director. “The COVID-19 vaccine is our best defense against the virus, and we want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to get up to date.”
Under the new order, nursing homes must offer on-site doses to residents who aren’t up to date on the vaccine as of January 20.
The order does not require nursing home residents to get vaccinated but is designed to offer information on the COVID-19 vaccine so residents can make informed decisions.
If the resident is unable to make their own medical decisions, nursing homes are required to contact the individual legally authorized to make medical decisions on their behalf.
