Whooping Cough on the Rise: CDC Urges Vaccination | | |
CDC data reveals nearly 5,000 cases of pertussis (whooping cough) reported this year, almost tripling last year's 1,746 cases... | |  |
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Whooping cough, caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, is a highly contagious respiratory illness spread through coughing and sneezing. Infected individuals can be contagious for weeks without symptoms. Infants under one, pregnant women, and immunocompromised people face the highest risk.
The CDC recommends diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis (DTaP) vaccination throughout life to prevent these diseases, including whooping cough.
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New 21-Strain Pneumococcal Vaccine Approved by FDA | | |
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A new vaccine to prevent invasive pneumococcal disease and pneumococcal pneumonia in adults has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Capvaxive protects against 21 serotypes that cause invasive pneumococcal disease in adults. These strains account for about 84% of invasive pneumococcal disease cases among adults aged 50 years or older and about 85% in adults aged 65 years or older.
The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will meet on June 27 to vote on recommendations for Capvaxive.
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Addressing Vaccine Anxiety: Strategies for Providers | | | |
One in four adults experiences vaccine anxiety, potentially leading to delayed or refused vaccinations despite strong provider recommendations and patient understanding of their importance. By acknowledging and addressing these feelings, providers can help anxious patients build confidence and increase future vaccine acceptance. | | |
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Long COVID Officially Defined: Provider Impact | | |
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On June 11, 2024, the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine announced an official definition for Long COVID. This definition, which has been accepted by the CDC, is crucial for healthcare providers as it establishes a clear framework for identifying and managing Long COVID, leading to more effective patient care.
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Long COVID is a recognized condition that may result in a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). With no specific diagnostic test available, providers must carefully distinguish Long COVID from other conditions with overlapping symptoms.
Rates of Long COVID remain steady, with 7% of adults, or about 17 million people, reporting the condition as of March 2024. The new definition aids in consistent diagnosis, documentation, and treatment across the healthcare system.
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Remember to WAVE: Ask "What About Vaccines? Every Time! | | | |
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Healthcare providers face ongoing challenges in keeping up with vaccine recommendations, insurance coverage, and billing procedures. The WAVE (What About Vaccines? Every Time) webpage aims to address these challenges by offering a comprehensive, up-to-date resource hub.
Visit the recently updated WAVE webpage today for the latest CDC vaccine schedules, detailed information on vaccine coverage and payment options, specific billing guides for various healthcare settings, and more!
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Q: What are the current recommendations for Tdap use in adults?
A: All adults 19 years and older who haven't received a Tdap dose should get one. Additionally:
- Tdap can be given regardless of the interval since the last tetanus or diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine.
- Providers should use every opportunity to vaccinate adults 65 years and older with Tdap.
Q: Can we stock only Tdap vaccine instead of both Tdap and Td?
A: Yes. The updated ACIP recommendations state that Tdap may be used in any situation where only Td was previously recommended.
Q: Where can I find the most current ACIP recommendations for Tdap?
A: The most current ACIP recommendations for Tdap are available on the CDC website.
For more vaccine FAQs, visit immunize.org. For resources to support your vaccine efforts, check our WAVE page.
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IP3 - Office Hours for Infection Preventionists | | | |
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Join our IP3 group for engaging and insightful discussions with fellow infection preventionists! Share innovative ideas and explore new strategies to enhance infection prevention practices.
Hosted by Melanie Ronda, MSN, RN, and Mary Ellen Casey, MSN, RN, our meetings take place every Thursday at 11 am ET. Don't miss this opportunity to connect and learn from your peers!
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Stay informed about vaccine updates:
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Visit our WAVE page to access up-to-date resources to support your efforts
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Keep the learning going:
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Visit our calendar to register for upcoming events
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Access on-demand training with IPRO Learn!
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For questions or technical assistance:
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The IPRO QIN-QIO works to ensure high-quality, safe health care in New England, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Delaware, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.
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This material was prepared by the IPRO QIN-QIO, a Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organization, under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Views expressed in this document do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of CMS or HHS, and any reference to a specific product or entity herein does not constitute endorsement of that product or entity by CMS or HHS. 12SOW-IPRO-QIN-T1-AA-21-435 | | | | |
