After many years of collaborative efforts to decrease infant mortality, Michigan recorded in 2004 its lowest rate ever of 7.6 (deaths) per thousand live births, a testament to the hard work going on at both the state and local levels.

The MI Volunteer Registry is another proactive step in preparing for accidental, natural, or intentional public health emergencies. It will form a critical network to facilitate the deployment of willing, needed, and qualified volunteers for any emergency.

This is a grass roots initiative that will potentially expand nationwide. The registry will expedite response efforts for emergencies affecting the health and wellness of citizens.

The plan would shift $400 million in state spending to the partnership from money the state now pays hospitals and clinics who treat the uninsured.

The much greater problem in avian flu compared to SARS is the high mortality, in particular the high mortality amongst children. The family will have dropped off their child and the next time they see him, he will be dying -- can you imagine the effect that will have on staff morale in your unit?

The much greater problem in avian flu compared to SARS is the high mortality, in particular the high mortality amongst children. The family will have dropped off their child and the next time they see him, he will be dying — can you imagine the effect that will have on staff morale in your unit?