Dr. Klamo Joins Health Officials to Promote Immunization as Measles, Pertussis Cases Rise

In response to a troubling resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases across Michigan, MAFP President Rachel M. Klamo, DO, MS, FAAFP, participated in a statewide media roundtable on April 24 to emphasize the urgent need for improving childhood vaccination rates. Thank you to WJBK-TV, WWTV/WWUP-TV 9&10 News, the Marquette Mining Journal, and WHMI-FM for covering the event.

Dr. Klamo joined fellow public health leaders to address the recent rise in measles and pertussis cases. Michigan has already reported eight measles cases in 2025 – its first outbreak since 2019 – and nearly 700 pertussis cases, including over 100 among infants under the age of 2. Vaccination coverage in young children has steadily declined, leaving many vulnerable to severe illness.

“Vaccination is not simply a personal choice - it is a public health responsibility that protects the entire community - particularly those at highest risk for serious health consequences," said Dr. Klamo. "We encounter vaccine preventable illnesses daily and are seeing cases of once rare diseases, such as Measles - the consequences of which can be life-long and devastating. For physicians - this is heartbreaking - because it is preventable.”

The roundtable, hosted in partnership with the I Vaccinate campaign, highlighted the importance of ensuring Michigan children are up to date on their routine immunizations. I Vaccinate is a collaborative initiative led by the Franny Strong Foundation and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) that provides science-based vaccine information to parents and caregivers.

Dr. Klamo’s participation underscored the vital role that family physicians play in educating families and administering timely vaccinations. With most of the recent measles cases involving unvaccinated individuals, experts continue to urge parents to follow the CDC-recommended immunization schedule and talk to their healthcare providers about getting back on track with vaccines.