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IZ Express #1,704: ACIP recommendations for use of RSV vaccine in older adults, and more
| From | Immunize.org <[email protected]> |
| Subject | IZ Express #1,704: ACIP recommendations for use of RSV vaccine in older adults, and more |
| Date | July 26, 2023 10:00 AM |
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Issue 1,704: July 26, 2023
Top Stories
* “Use of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines in Older Adults: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, 2023” published in MMWR (#IZX1)
* FDA approves nirsevimab for prevention of RSV in infants and vulnerable children up to 24 months; watch ACIP meeting considering nirsevimab recommendations and inclusion in the Vaccines for Children program, August 3, 11:00 a.m. (ET) (#IZX2)
* National Immunization Awareness Month starts August 1; promote vaccination with CDC resources (#IZX3)
* 2023–2024 CDC influenza vaccination recommendations adopted (#IZX3.5)
* “Minimum Interval When Repeating Expired Live Vaccine Dose”: watch the 1-minute answer, part of the Ask the Experts Video Series on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram (#IZX4)
* Immunize.org’s MenB Vaccination Honor Roll recognizes one new institution that protects its students (#IZX5)
* World Hepatitis Day occurs July 28; share Immunize.org’s resources all year long (#IZX6)
* Spotlight: Immunize.org's “Clinic Tools: Administering Vaccines” main page provides practical tools based on authoritative sources (#IZX7)
* Vaccines in the news (#IZX8)
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
* Immunize.org updates its “Ask the Experts” web pages on combination vaccines, meningococcal ACWY vaccines, and meningococcal B vaccines (#IZX9)
Featured Resources
* CDC issues 2024 edition of CDC Yellow Book: Health Information for International Travel (#IZX10)
Notable Publications
* “Safety of COVID-19 Vaccines during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis” published in Vaccine (#IZX11)
* “Reflections from School Communities in Underserved Populations on Childhood COVID-19 Vaccination” published in Pediatrics (#IZX12)
Global News
* “Progress toward Hepatitis B Control and Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus—World Health Organization African Region, 2016–2021” published in MMWR (#IZX13)
* “The Pan American Health Organization: 120 Years Promoting Public Health in the Region of the Americas” (commentary) published by Pan American Journal of Public Health (#IZX14)
Upcoming Events
* Today! North Dakota State University hosts webinar titled “Vaccines under the Microscope: How Can We Know They Are Safe?” on July 26, 1:00 p.m. (ET). (#IZX15)
* Virtual: Montgomery County (Pennsylvania) Immunization Coalition hosts webinar titled “Back to School Vaccines” on August 15, 7:00 p.m. (ET) (#IZX16)
Editorial Information (#Editorial)
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Top Stories
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“Use of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines in Older Adults: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, 2023” published in MMWR
CDC published Use of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines in Older Adults: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, 2023 ([link removed]) on July 21 in MMWR. The publication follows the June 21 ACIP discussion and vote to recommend RSV vaccination for adults age 60 years or older using shared clinical decision-making. It expands on the clinical considerations for determining whether to administer an RSV vaccine to an individual in this age group. A portion of the article appears below.
For RSV vaccination, the decision to vaccinate a patient should be based on a discussion between the health care provider and the patient, which might be guided by the patient’s risk for disease and their characteristics, values, and preferences; the provider’s clinical discretion; and the characteristics of the vaccine.
As part of this discussion, providers and patients should consider the patient’s risk for severe RSV-associated disease. Epidemiologic evidence indicates that persons aged ≥60 years who are at highest risk for severe RSV disease and who might be most likely to benefit from vaccination include those with chronic medical conditions such as lung diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma; cardiovascular diseases such as congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease; moderate or severe immune compromise (either attributable to a medical condition or receipt of immunosuppressive medications or treatment); diabetes mellitus; neurologic or neuromuscular conditions; kidney disorders, liver disorders, and hematologic disorders; persons who are frail; persons of advanced age; and persons with other underlying conditions or factors that the provider determines might increase the risk for severe RSV-associated respiratory disease. Adults aged ≥60 years who are residents
of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities are also at risk for severe RSV disease. It should be noted that the numbers of persons enrolled in the trials who were frail, were of advanced age, and lived in long-term care facilities were limited, and persons with compromised immunity were excluded (some of whom might have an attenuated immune response to RSV vaccination). However, adults aged ≥60 years in these populations may receive vaccination using shared clinical decision-making given the potential for benefit.
[link removed]
Access the MMWR article in HTML ([link removed]) or PDF ([link removed]) .
Related Links
* MMWR's main page ([link removed]) provides access to the MMWR family of publications
* CDC: Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV) ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: ACIP Presentation Slides: June 21–23, 2023 Meeting ([link removed]) web page
* CDC YouTube: June 2023 ACIP Meeting – RSV Vaccines – Adult ([link removed]) (video)
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FDA approves nirsevimab for prevention of RSV in infants and vulnerable children up to 24 months; watch ACIP meeting considering nirsevimab recommendations and inclusion in the Vaccines for Children program, August 3, 11:00 a.m. (ET)
On July 17, FDA announced ([link removed]) the approval of Beyfortus (nirsevimab) for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract disease in neonates and infants born during or entering their first RSV season, and in children up to 24 months of age who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease through their second RSV season. Nirsevimab was developed by AstraZeneca and will be distributed by Sanofi. A portion of the news release appears below.
Beyfortus is a monoclonal antibody with activity against RSV. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful pathogens such as viruses. One dose of Beyfortus, administered as a single intramuscular injection prior to or during RSV season, may provide protection during the RSV season.
CDC will convene a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices ([link removed]) (ACIP), 11:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. (ET) on August 3 to discuss and vote on nirsevimab recommendations for RSV prevention in infants and its inclusion in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program.
[link removed]
No registration is required to watch webcasts of live ACIP meetings or listen via telephone. Opportunities for public comment are described on the website.
View the agenda ([link removed]) .
Related Links
* FDA: FDA Approves New Drug to Prevent RSV in Babies and Toddlers ([link removed]) (7/17/23)
* CDC: ACIP main page ([link removed]) for access to webcast, agendas
* CDC: ACIP: Meeting Information ([link removed]) for presentation slides, content from previous meetings, and information about future meetings
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National Immunization Awareness Month starts August 1; promote vaccination with CDC resources
August is National Immunization Awareness Month ([link removed]) (NIAM). This annual observance highlights the efforts to protect people of all ages against vaccine-preventable diseases through on-time vaccination. This year, NIAM serves as a focal point to get back on track with routine vaccines.
During NIAM, encourage your patients to schedule appointments to ensure they are up to date on annual exams and recommended vaccines. Research shows that healthcare providers remain the most trusted source of vaccine information for parents and patients.
[link removed]
CDC’s NIAM web page includes two toolkits, one for reaching healthcare professionals ([link removed]) and the other for reaching parents and patients ([link removed]) . Each includes key messages, sample social media content, and educational resources. CDC encourages its partners to share these messages and resources throughout August using the hashtag #ivax2protect. Stay tuned for more resources to be released throughout the coming weeks.
Related Links
* CDC: Toolkit for Reaching Healthcare Professionals ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: Toolkit for Reaching Parents and Patients ([link removed]) main page
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2023–2024 CDC influenza vaccination recommendations adopted
On June 27, 2023, CDC director Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH, adopted the 2023–2024 CDC influenza vaccination recommendations. ([link removed] ) Small changes were made to the annual influenza vaccination recommendations, including an acknowledgement of the updated flu vaccine composition for the 2023–2024 flu season and a change in the recommendations for vaccination of people with egg allergies. The CDC director’s adoption of the ACIP recommendations makes them official CDC policy, which will be published in an upcoming Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Recommendation Report later this summer.
This announcement provides additional details on the updated recommendations for this influenza season. Providers should begin vaccinating patients according to CDC’s recommended timing, which remains the same as last season.
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“Minimum Interval When Repeating Expired Live Vaccine Dose”: watch the 1-minute answer, part of the Ask the Experts Video Series on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram
Immunize.org’s social media program highlights our educational resources for today’s vaccinators. This week, our featured episode from the Ask the Experts Video Series is Minimum Interval When Repeating Expired Live Vaccine Dose ([link removed]) . This is available on our YouTube channel ([link removed]) , along with our full collection of quick video answers to popular Ask the Experts ([link removed]) questions.
[link removed]
Our social media channels feature our most popular printable resources, our Ask the Experts Video Series, and announcements important to frontline vaccinators. Like, follow, and share Immunize.org’s social media accounts. Encourage colleagues and others interested in vaccination to do likewise:
* Facebook at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* Instagram at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* LinkedIn at Immunize.org ([link removed])
* Twitter at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* YouTube at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
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Immunize.org’s MenB Vaccination Honor Roll recognizes one new institution that protects its students
Immunize.org is pleased to announce that one new post-secondary institution earned recognition on its MenB Vaccination Honor Roll ([link removed]) for requiring or recommending serogroup B vaccine for students.
The newly added institution appears below. Clicking on an institution’s name takes you to the place on the school's website that details their vaccination policy.
* Stevens Institute of Technology ([link removed]) of Hoboken, NJ
Currently, there are 271 honorees, with 41 colleges and universities requiring MenB vaccination for their students and 230 recommending it.
[link removed]
Immunize.org launched the MenB Vaccination Honor Roll ([link removed]) in 2020 to recognize institutions that establish immunization policies to protect the health of their students.
Please help us to grow the honor roll by notifying us of colleges or universities that require or recommend MenB vaccination for students. Institutions may apply for the honor roll ([link removed]) , or you can alert us at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .
Please visit the MenB Vaccination Honor Roll ([link removed]) web page to find resources such as news stories about meningitis B outbreaks, personal stories from families affected by meningitis B, journal articles, and links to organizations that work to prevent meningitis.
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World Hepatitis Day occurs July 28; share Immunize.org’s resources all year long
World Hepatitis Day ([link removed]) is recognized annually on July 28. This commemorates the birthday of Baruch Blumberg, MD, PhD, who discovered the hepatitis B virus in 1967 and developed the basis for the first hepatitis B vaccine in 1969.
This year’s theme, “We're Not Waiting," calls us to accelerate viral hepatitis elimination efforts by heralding the urgent need for prevention, testing, and treatment. Immunize.org’s July 13 webinar, Hepatitis B-Gone: Implementing Universal Adult Screening and Vaccination. Your Practical Questions Answered. ([link removed]) , is now archived for viewing and explains in useful ways how healthcare providers can engage in these important efforts to eliminate hepatitis B.
[link removed]
Get involved by using World Hepatitis Day digital resources ([link removed]) and the hashtag #WorldHepatitisDay with your social media posts. It's also important to spread hepatitis awareness, prevention, testing, and treatment resources throughout the year.
Help your colleagues understand the recommendations using Immunize.org resources:
* Vaccines: Hepatitis A ([link removed]) main page
* Vaccines Hepatitis B ([link removed]) main page
* Handouts: Hepatitis A ([link removed]) main page
* Handouts: Hepatitis B ([link removed]) main page
* Ask the Experts: Hepatitis A ([link removed]) web page
* Ask the Experts: Hepatitis B ([link removed]) web page
* Immunize.org: Hepatitis B-Gone: Implementing Universal Adult Screening and Vaccination. Your Practical Questions Answered. ([link removed]) (archived webinar)
Related Links
* WorldHepatitisDay.org ([link removed])
* World Hepatitis Day: Get Involved ([link removed]) main page (digital resources)
* CDC: Hepatitis B ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: Hepatitis B: Vaccination of Infants, Children, and Adolescents ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: Hepatitis B: Vaccination of Adults ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: Hepatitis A ([link removed]) main page
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Spotlight: Immunize.org's “Clinic Tools: Administering Vaccines” main page provides practical tools based on authoritative sources
Immunize.org's Clinic Tools: Administering Vaccines ([link removed]) main page is a collection of resources from Immunize.org, CDC, and other organizations. To find it, select the "Clinic Tools" tab in the middle of the blue banner atop every Immunize.org web page and then select "Administering Vaccines."
On the "Clinic Tools: Administering Vaccines" main page, you will find educational materials such as:
* Administering Vaccines: Dose, Route, Site, and Needle Size ([link removed])
* Don’t Be Guilty of These Preventable Errors in Vaccine Administration! ([link removed])
* How to Administer Intramuscular and Subcutaneous Vaccine Injections ([link removed])
* Skills Checklist for Vaccine Administration ([link removed])
The right-hand column of the page features partner resources, links to vaccine administration guidelines, and The Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases ("The Pink Book").
[link removed]
Visit the Clinic Tools: Administering Vaccines ([link removed]) main page on Immunize.org.
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Vaccines in the news
These recent articles convey the potential risks of vaccine-preventable diseases and the importance of vaccination.
* Washington Post: First RSV Antibody Treatment to Protect All Infants Approved in the U.S. ([link removed]) (7/18/23)
* NPR: After a Historic Downturn Due to the Pandemic, Childhood Immunizations Are Improving ([link removed]) (7/18/23)
* Washington Post: As Pandemic Raged, Global South Lacked Vaccines. Never Again, Researchers Vow. ([link removed]) (7/16/23)
* The Guardian: London at Risk of Major Measles Outbreak, UK Health Security Agency Warns ([link removed]) (7/14/23)
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Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
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Immunize.org updates its “Ask the Experts” web pages on combination vaccines, meningococcal ACWY vaccines, and meningococcal B vaccines
Immunize.org recently reviewed and updated three of its popular Ask the Experts ([link removed]) web pages with current epidemiology and new hyperlinks to resources, as needed. Take this opportunity to refresh your knowledge with a review of the clinical questions and answers available from Immunize.org on these topics.
* Ask the Experts: Combination Vaccines ([link removed])
* Ask the Experts: Meningococcal ACWY ([link removed]) : New content on one-vial liquid formulation of Menveo
* Ask the Experts: Meningococcal B ([link removed])
[link removed]
Immunize.org’s Ask the Experts ([link removed]) main page leads you to 30 web pages on various topics with more than 1,200 common or challenging questions and answers about vaccines and their administration. Immunize.org’s team of experts includes Kelly L. Moore, MD, MPH (team lead), Carolyn B. Bridges, MD, FACP, and Iyabode Beysolow, MD, MPH.
Related Links
* Immunize.org: Ask the Experts ([link removed]) main page with more than 1,200 questions and answers
* Immunize.org: Ask the Experts: Combination Vaccines ([link removed]) web page
* Immunize.org: Ask the Experts: Meningococcal ACWY ([link removed]) web page
* Immunize.org: Ask the Experts: Meningococcal B ([link removed]) web page
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Featured Resources
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CDC issues 2024 edition of CDC Yellow Book: Health Information for International Travel
CDC’s 2024 edition of CDC Yellow Book: Health Information for International Travel ([link removed]) is now available in hard copy and online. The CDC Yellow Book provides information for health professionals on pre- and post-travel care for international travelers. It compiles the U.S. government’s most current travel health guidelines, including pretravel vaccine and safety recommendations, destination-specific health advice, and easy-to-reference maps, tables, and charts.
The 2024 edition of the CDC Yellow Book includes:
* Precautions for international travelers during the COVID-19 pandemic
* Updates on providing travel health and travel medicine in a virtual environment
* New standalone vaccine tables for bacterial and viral diseases
* Updated travel health recommendations for highly allergic, immunocompromised, and chronically ill travelers, travelers with substance-use disorders, and medical tourists
* Country-specific mosquito avoidance, yellow fever vaccine, and malaria prevention recommendations
[link removed]
The CDC Yellow Book chapters and appendices are available at no charge on the CDC Yellow Book Table of Contents ([link removed]) main page.
Order a hard copy from the Oxford University Press ([link removed]〈=en&) ($65 plus shipping).
Related Links
* CDC: CDC Yellow Book ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: CDC Yellow Book: Table of Contents ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: Resources – CDC Yellow Book 2024 ([link removed]) main page
* Oxford University Press: CDC Yellow Book 2024 ([link removed]〈=en&) web page
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Notable Publications
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“Safety of COVID-19 Vaccines during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis” published in Vaccine
In the June 7 issue, Vaccine published Safety of COVID-19 Vaccines during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis ([link removed]) . The conclusion section appears below.
We found no safety concerns for currently administered COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy. Additional experimental and real-world evidence could enhance vaccination coverage. Robust safety data for non-mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines are still needed.
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“Reflections from School Communities in Underserved Populations on Childhood COVID-19 Vaccination” published in Pediatrics
In the July 2023 issue, Pediatrics published Reflections from School Communities in Underserved Populations on Childhood COVID-19 Vaccination ([link removed]) . The conclusions section appears below.
School settings offered unique access to youth and family perspectives in underserved communities. Our studies highlighted several factors contributing to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in school communities, which align with existing literature on vaccine hesitancy. These concerns centered primarily on potential harm of vaccines, as well as misinformation, mistrust, and timing of vaccines. Related recommendations for increasing vaccination rates are provided. Developing specific strategies that address parent and child concerns will be critical to reducing health inequities related to COVID-19 vaccination.
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Global News
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“Progress toward Hepatitis B Control and Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus—World Health Organization African Region, 2016–2021” published in MMWR
CDC published Progress toward Hepatitis B Control and Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus—World Health Organization African Region, 2016–2021 ([link removed]) on July 21 in MMWR. A portion of the summary appears below.
In 2019, the World Health Organization African Region (AFR) accounted for 66% of all new chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. Chronic HBV infection is the leading causes of cirrhosis and liver cancer. . . .
By 2021, all 47 AFR countries provided 3 doses of hepatitis B vaccine (HepB3) to infants, and 14 (30%) provided a birth dose (HepB-BD). By December 2021, 16 (34%) countries achieved ≥90% HepB3 coverage; two (4%) achieved ≥90% timely HepB-BD coverage. Four countries achieved hepatitis B control; none achieved elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT). . . .
Introduction of HepB-BD, improving HepB3 and HepB-BD coverage, and monitoring implementation of EMTCT interventions are essential to accelerating progress toward hepatitis B control and EMTCT in AFR.
Access the MMWR article in HTML ([link removed]) or PDF ([link removed]) .
Related Link
* MMWR's main page ([link removed]) provides access to the MMWR family of publications
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“The Pan American Health Organization: 120 Years Promoting Public Health in the Region of the Americas” (commentary) published by Pan American Journal of Public Health
In the July 14 issue, Pan American Journal of Public Health published The Pan American Health Organization: 120 Years Promoting Public Health in the Region of the Americas ([link removed]) . This commentary was written by Jarbas Barbosa da Silva Jr., MD, PhD, director of the Pan American Health Organization. A portion of the article appears below.
The Region was especially hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic . . . [yet] our Region worked together to vaccinate more than 700 million people. . . .
Over the past decades, I have witnessed Member States work in partnership to eliminate measles, rubella, and neonatal tetanus. . . .
Time and time again, I have found that the key to overcoming our Region’s health challenges is through taking collective actions to find solutions. This requires maintaining close partnerships across country governments and health systems, and openly sharing data, advice, and expertise.
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Upcoming Events
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Today! Virtual: North Dakota State University hosts webinar titled “Vaccines under the Microscope: How Can We Know They Are Safe?” on July 26, 1:00 p.m. (ET).
North Dakota State University's (NDSU) Center for Immunization Research and Education (CIRE) will host a webinar titled Vaccines under the Microscope: How Can We Know They Are Safe? ([link removed]) at 1:00 p.m. (ET) on July 26. During the event, Paul Carson, MD, FACP, medical director, NDSU CIRE, will provide an in-depth look at the vaccine safety surveillance systems used in the United States.
Submit questions for Dr. Carson at [email protected].
Register for the webinar ([link removed]) .
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Virtual: Montgomery County (Pennsylvania) Immunization Coalition hosts webinar titled “Back to School Vaccines” on August 15, 7:00 p.m. (ET)
Montgomery County Immunization Coalition (MCIC) will host its second expert Q&A webinar titled Back to School Vaccines ([link removed]) , 7:00–8:00 p.m. (ET) on August 15. With so many vaccine questions, it can be hard to know who or what to believe. Join a panel of healthcare experts for answers to your questions on back-to-school vaccines.
[link removed].
Register for the webinar ([link removed]) .
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For more upcoming events, visit our Calendar of Events ([link removed]) .
Editorial Information
Editor-in-Chief
Kelly L. Moore, MD, MPH
Managing Editor
John D. Grabenstein, RPh, PhD
Associate Editor
Sharon G. Humiston, MD, MPH
Writer/Publication Coordinator
Taryn Chapman, MS
Courtnay Londo, MA
Style and Copy Editor
Marian Deegan, JD
Web Edition Managers
Arkady Shakhnovich
Jermaine Royes
Contributing Writer
Laurel H. Wood, MPA
Technical Reviewer
Kayla Ohlde
About IZ Express
Immunize.org welcomes redistribution of this issue of IZ Express or selected articles.
When you do so, please add a note that Immunize.org is the source of the material and provide a link to this issue ([link removed]) .
IZ Express is supported in part by Grant No. 1NH23IP922654 from the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, CDC. Its contents are solely the responsibility of Immunize.org and do not necessarily represent the official views of CDC.
IZ Express Disclaimer ([link removed])
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Issue 1,704: July 26, 2023
Top Stories
* “Use of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines in Older Adults: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, 2023” published in MMWR (#IZX1)
* FDA approves nirsevimab for prevention of RSV in infants and vulnerable children up to 24 months; watch ACIP meeting considering nirsevimab recommendations and inclusion in the Vaccines for Children program, August 3, 11:00 a.m. (ET) (#IZX2)
* National Immunization Awareness Month starts August 1; promote vaccination with CDC resources (#IZX3)
* 2023–2024 CDC influenza vaccination recommendations adopted (#IZX3.5)
* “Minimum Interval When Repeating Expired Live Vaccine Dose”: watch the 1-minute answer, part of the Ask the Experts Video Series on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram (#IZX4)
* Immunize.org’s MenB Vaccination Honor Roll recognizes one new institution that protects its students (#IZX5)
* World Hepatitis Day occurs July 28; share Immunize.org’s resources all year long (#IZX6)
* Spotlight: Immunize.org's “Clinic Tools: Administering Vaccines” main page provides practical tools based on authoritative sources (#IZX7)
* Vaccines in the news (#IZX8)
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
* Immunize.org updates its “Ask the Experts” web pages on combination vaccines, meningococcal ACWY vaccines, and meningococcal B vaccines (#IZX9)
Featured Resources
* CDC issues 2024 edition of CDC Yellow Book: Health Information for International Travel (#IZX10)
Notable Publications
* “Safety of COVID-19 Vaccines during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis” published in Vaccine (#IZX11)
* “Reflections from School Communities in Underserved Populations on Childhood COVID-19 Vaccination” published in Pediatrics (#IZX12)
Global News
* “Progress toward Hepatitis B Control and Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus—World Health Organization African Region, 2016–2021” published in MMWR (#IZX13)
* “The Pan American Health Organization: 120 Years Promoting Public Health in the Region of the Americas” (commentary) published by Pan American Journal of Public Health (#IZX14)
Upcoming Events
* Today! North Dakota State University hosts webinar titled “Vaccines under the Microscope: How Can We Know They Are Safe?” on July 26, 1:00 p.m. (ET). (#IZX15)
* Virtual: Montgomery County (Pennsylvania) Immunization Coalition hosts webinar titled “Back to School Vaccines” on August 15, 7:00 p.m. (ET) (#IZX16)
Editorial Information (#Editorial)
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Top Stories
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“Use of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines in Older Adults: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, 2023” published in MMWR
CDC published Use of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines in Older Adults: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, 2023 ([link removed]) on July 21 in MMWR. The publication follows the June 21 ACIP discussion and vote to recommend RSV vaccination for adults age 60 years or older using shared clinical decision-making. It expands on the clinical considerations for determining whether to administer an RSV vaccine to an individual in this age group. A portion of the article appears below.
For RSV vaccination, the decision to vaccinate a patient should be based on a discussion between the health care provider and the patient, which might be guided by the patient’s risk for disease and their characteristics, values, and preferences; the provider’s clinical discretion; and the characteristics of the vaccine.
As part of this discussion, providers and patients should consider the patient’s risk for severe RSV-associated disease. Epidemiologic evidence indicates that persons aged ≥60 years who are at highest risk for severe RSV disease and who might be most likely to benefit from vaccination include those with chronic medical conditions such as lung diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma; cardiovascular diseases such as congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease; moderate or severe immune compromise (either attributable to a medical condition or receipt of immunosuppressive medications or treatment); diabetes mellitus; neurologic or neuromuscular conditions; kidney disorders, liver disorders, and hematologic disorders; persons who are frail; persons of advanced age; and persons with other underlying conditions or factors that the provider determines might increase the risk for severe RSV-associated respiratory disease. Adults aged ≥60 years who are residents
of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities are also at risk for severe RSV disease. It should be noted that the numbers of persons enrolled in the trials who were frail, were of advanced age, and lived in long-term care facilities were limited, and persons with compromised immunity were excluded (some of whom might have an attenuated immune response to RSV vaccination). However, adults aged ≥60 years in these populations may receive vaccination using shared clinical decision-making given the potential for benefit.
[link removed]
Access the MMWR article in HTML ([link removed]) or PDF ([link removed]) .
Related Links
* MMWR's main page ([link removed]) provides access to the MMWR family of publications
* CDC: Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV) ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: ACIP Presentation Slides: June 21–23, 2023 Meeting ([link removed]) web page
* CDC YouTube: June 2023 ACIP Meeting – RSV Vaccines – Adult ([link removed]) (video)
Back to top (#Top)
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FDA approves nirsevimab for prevention of RSV in infants and vulnerable children up to 24 months; watch ACIP meeting considering nirsevimab recommendations and inclusion in the Vaccines for Children program, August 3, 11:00 a.m. (ET)
On July 17, FDA announced ([link removed]) the approval of Beyfortus (nirsevimab) for the prevention of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract disease in neonates and infants born during or entering their first RSV season, and in children up to 24 months of age who remain vulnerable to severe RSV disease through their second RSV season. Nirsevimab was developed by AstraZeneca and will be distributed by Sanofi. A portion of the news release appears below.
Beyfortus is a monoclonal antibody with activity against RSV. Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off harmful pathogens such as viruses. One dose of Beyfortus, administered as a single intramuscular injection prior to or during RSV season, may provide protection during the RSV season.
CDC will convene a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices ([link removed]) (ACIP), 11:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. (ET) on August 3 to discuss and vote on nirsevimab recommendations for RSV prevention in infants and its inclusion in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program.
[link removed]
No registration is required to watch webcasts of live ACIP meetings or listen via telephone. Opportunities for public comment are described on the website.
View the agenda ([link removed]) .
Related Links
* FDA: FDA Approves New Drug to Prevent RSV in Babies and Toddlers ([link removed]) (7/17/23)
* CDC: ACIP main page ([link removed]) for access to webcast, agendas
* CDC: ACIP: Meeting Information ([link removed]) for presentation slides, content from previous meetings, and information about future meetings
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National Immunization Awareness Month starts August 1; promote vaccination with CDC resources
August is National Immunization Awareness Month ([link removed]) (NIAM). This annual observance highlights the efforts to protect people of all ages against vaccine-preventable diseases through on-time vaccination. This year, NIAM serves as a focal point to get back on track with routine vaccines.
During NIAM, encourage your patients to schedule appointments to ensure they are up to date on annual exams and recommended vaccines. Research shows that healthcare providers remain the most trusted source of vaccine information for parents and patients.
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CDC’s NIAM web page includes two toolkits, one for reaching healthcare professionals ([link removed]) and the other for reaching parents and patients ([link removed]) . Each includes key messages, sample social media content, and educational resources. CDC encourages its partners to share these messages and resources throughout August using the hashtag #ivax2protect. Stay tuned for more resources to be released throughout the coming weeks.
Related Links
* CDC: Toolkit for Reaching Healthcare Professionals ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: Toolkit for Reaching Parents and Patients ([link removed]) main page
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2023–2024 CDC influenza vaccination recommendations adopted
On June 27, 2023, CDC director Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH, adopted the 2023–2024 CDC influenza vaccination recommendations. ([link removed] ) Small changes were made to the annual influenza vaccination recommendations, including an acknowledgement of the updated flu vaccine composition for the 2023–2024 flu season and a change in the recommendations for vaccination of people with egg allergies. The CDC director’s adoption of the ACIP recommendations makes them official CDC policy, which will be published in an upcoming Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Recommendation Report later this summer.
This announcement provides additional details on the updated recommendations for this influenza season. Providers should begin vaccinating patients according to CDC’s recommended timing, which remains the same as last season.
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“Minimum Interval When Repeating Expired Live Vaccine Dose”: watch the 1-minute answer, part of the Ask the Experts Video Series on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram
Immunize.org’s social media program highlights our educational resources for today’s vaccinators. This week, our featured episode from the Ask the Experts Video Series is Minimum Interval When Repeating Expired Live Vaccine Dose ([link removed]) . This is available on our YouTube channel ([link removed]) , along with our full collection of quick video answers to popular Ask the Experts ([link removed]) questions.
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Our social media channels feature our most popular printable resources, our Ask the Experts Video Series, and announcements important to frontline vaccinators. Like, follow, and share Immunize.org’s social media accounts. Encourage colleagues and others interested in vaccination to do likewise:
* Facebook at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* Instagram at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* LinkedIn at Immunize.org ([link removed])
* Twitter at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* YouTube at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
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Immunize.org’s MenB Vaccination Honor Roll recognizes one new institution that protects its students
Immunize.org is pleased to announce that one new post-secondary institution earned recognition on its MenB Vaccination Honor Roll ([link removed]) for requiring or recommending serogroup B vaccine for students.
The newly added institution appears below. Clicking on an institution’s name takes you to the place on the school's website that details their vaccination policy.
* Stevens Institute of Technology ([link removed]) of Hoboken, NJ
Currently, there are 271 honorees, with 41 colleges and universities requiring MenB vaccination for their students and 230 recommending it.
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Immunize.org launched the MenB Vaccination Honor Roll ([link removed]) in 2020 to recognize institutions that establish immunization policies to protect the health of their students.
Please help us to grow the honor roll by notifying us of colleges or universities that require or recommend MenB vaccination for students. Institutions may apply for the honor roll ([link removed]) , or you can alert us at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .
Please visit the MenB Vaccination Honor Roll ([link removed]) web page to find resources such as news stories about meningitis B outbreaks, personal stories from families affected by meningitis B, journal articles, and links to organizations that work to prevent meningitis.
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World Hepatitis Day occurs July 28; share Immunize.org’s resources all year long
World Hepatitis Day ([link removed]) is recognized annually on July 28. This commemorates the birthday of Baruch Blumberg, MD, PhD, who discovered the hepatitis B virus in 1967 and developed the basis for the first hepatitis B vaccine in 1969.
This year’s theme, “We're Not Waiting," calls us to accelerate viral hepatitis elimination efforts by heralding the urgent need for prevention, testing, and treatment. Immunize.org’s July 13 webinar, Hepatitis B-Gone: Implementing Universal Adult Screening and Vaccination. Your Practical Questions Answered. ([link removed]) , is now archived for viewing and explains in useful ways how healthcare providers can engage in these important efforts to eliminate hepatitis B.
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Get involved by using World Hepatitis Day digital resources ([link removed]) and the hashtag #WorldHepatitisDay with your social media posts. It's also important to spread hepatitis awareness, prevention, testing, and treatment resources throughout the year.
Help your colleagues understand the recommendations using Immunize.org resources:
* Vaccines: Hepatitis A ([link removed]) main page
* Vaccines Hepatitis B ([link removed]) main page
* Handouts: Hepatitis A ([link removed]) main page
* Handouts: Hepatitis B ([link removed]) main page
* Ask the Experts: Hepatitis A ([link removed]) web page
* Ask the Experts: Hepatitis B ([link removed]) web page
* Immunize.org: Hepatitis B-Gone: Implementing Universal Adult Screening and Vaccination. Your Practical Questions Answered. ([link removed]) (archived webinar)
Related Links
* WorldHepatitisDay.org ([link removed])
* World Hepatitis Day: Get Involved ([link removed]) main page (digital resources)
* CDC: Hepatitis B ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: Hepatitis B: Vaccination of Infants, Children, and Adolescents ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: Hepatitis B: Vaccination of Adults ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: Hepatitis A ([link removed]) main page
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Spotlight: Immunize.org's “Clinic Tools: Administering Vaccines” main page provides practical tools based on authoritative sources
Immunize.org's Clinic Tools: Administering Vaccines ([link removed]) main page is a collection of resources from Immunize.org, CDC, and other organizations. To find it, select the "Clinic Tools" tab in the middle of the blue banner atop every Immunize.org web page and then select "Administering Vaccines."
On the "Clinic Tools: Administering Vaccines" main page, you will find educational materials such as:
* Administering Vaccines: Dose, Route, Site, and Needle Size ([link removed])
* Don’t Be Guilty of These Preventable Errors in Vaccine Administration! ([link removed])
* How to Administer Intramuscular and Subcutaneous Vaccine Injections ([link removed])
* Skills Checklist for Vaccine Administration ([link removed])
The right-hand column of the page features partner resources, links to vaccine administration guidelines, and The Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases ("The Pink Book").
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Visit the Clinic Tools: Administering Vaccines ([link removed]) main page on Immunize.org.
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Vaccines in the news
These recent articles convey the potential risks of vaccine-preventable diseases and the importance of vaccination.
* Washington Post: First RSV Antibody Treatment to Protect All Infants Approved in the U.S. ([link removed]) (7/18/23)
* NPR: After a Historic Downturn Due to the Pandemic, Childhood Immunizations Are Improving ([link removed]) (7/18/23)
* Washington Post: As Pandemic Raged, Global South Lacked Vaccines. Never Again, Researchers Vow. ([link removed]) (7/16/23)
* The Guardian: London at Risk of Major Measles Outbreak, UK Health Security Agency Warns ([link removed]) (7/14/23)
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Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
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Immunize.org updates its “Ask the Experts” web pages on combination vaccines, meningococcal ACWY vaccines, and meningococcal B vaccines
Immunize.org recently reviewed and updated three of its popular Ask the Experts ([link removed]) web pages with current epidemiology and new hyperlinks to resources, as needed. Take this opportunity to refresh your knowledge with a review of the clinical questions and answers available from Immunize.org on these topics.
* Ask the Experts: Combination Vaccines ([link removed])
* Ask the Experts: Meningococcal ACWY ([link removed]) : New content on one-vial liquid formulation of Menveo
* Ask the Experts: Meningococcal B ([link removed])
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Immunize.org’s Ask the Experts ([link removed]) main page leads you to 30 web pages on various topics with more than 1,200 common or challenging questions and answers about vaccines and their administration. Immunize.org’s team of experts includes Kelly L. Moore, MD, MPH (team lead), Carolyn B. Bridges, MD, FACP, and Iyabode Beysolow, MD, MPH.
Related Links
* Immunize.org: Ask the Experts ([link removed]) main page with more than 1,200 questions and answers
* Immunize.org: Ask the Experts: Combination Vaccines ([link removed]) web page
* Immunize.org: Ask the Experts: Meningococcal ACWY ([link removed]) web page
* Immunize.org: Ask the Experts: Meningococcal B ([link removed]) web page
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Featured Resources
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CDC issues 2024 edition of CDC Yellow Book: Health Information for International Travel
CDC’s 2024 edition of CDC Yellow Book: Health Information for International Travel ([link removed]) is now available in hard copy and online. The CDC Yellow Book provides information for health professionals on pre- and post-travel care for international travelers. It compiles the U.S. government’s most current travel health guidelines, including pretravel vaccine and safety recommendations, destination-specific health advice, and easy-to-reference maps, tables, and charts.
The 2024 edition of the CDC Yellow Book includes:
* Precautions for international travelers during the COVID-19 pandemic
* Updates on providing travel health and travel medicine in a virtual environment
* New standalone vaccine tables for bacterial and viral diseases
* Updated travel health recommendations for highly allergic, immunocompromised, and chronically ill travelers, travelers with substance-use disorders, and medical tourists
* Country-specific mosquito avoidance, yellow fever vaccine, and malaria prevention recommendations
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The CDC Yellow Book chapters and appendices are available at no charge on the CDC Yellow Book Table of Contents ([link removed]) main page.
Order a hard copy from the Oxford University Press ([link removed]〈=en&) ($65 plus shipping).
Related Links
* CDC: CDC Yellow Book ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: CDC Yellow Book: Table of Contents ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: Resources – CDC Yellow Book 2024 ([link removed]) main page
* Oxford University Press: CDC Yellow Book 2024 ([link removed]〈=en&) web page
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Notable Publications
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“Safety of COVID-19 Vaccines during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis” published in Vaccine
In the June 7 issue, Vaccine published Safety of COVID-19 Vaccines during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis ([link removed]) . The conclusion section appears below.
We found no safety concerns for currently administered COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy. Additional experimental and real-world evidence could enhance vaccination coverage. Robust safety data for non-mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines are still needed.
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“Reflections from School Communities in Underserved Populations on Childhood COVID-19 Vaccination” published in Pediatrics
In the July 2023 issue, Pediatrics published Reflections from School Communities in Underserved Populations on Childhood COVID-19 Vaccination ([link removed]) . The conclusions section appears below.
School settings offered unique access to youth and family perspectives in underserved communities. Our studies highlighted several factors contributing to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in school communities, which align with existing literature on vaccine hesitancy. These concerns centered primarily on potential harm of vaccines, as well as misinformation, mistrust, and timing of vaccines. Related recommendations for increasing vaccination rates are provided. Developing specific strategies that address parent and child concerns will be critical to reducing health inequities related to COVID-19 vaccination.
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Global News
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“Progress toward Hepatitis B Control and Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus—World Health Organization African Region, 2016–2021” published in MMWR
CDC published Progress toward Hepatitis B Control and Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus—World Health Organization African Region, 2016–2021 ([link removed]) on July 21 in MMWR. A portion of the summary appears below.
In 2019, the World Health Organization African Region (AFR) accounted for 66% of all new chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections. Chronic HBV infection is the leading causes of cirrhosis and liver cancer. . . .
By 2021, all 47 AFR countries provided 3 doses of hepatitis B vaccine (HepB3) to infants, and 14 (30%) provided a birth dose (HepB-BD). By December 2021, 16 (34%) countries achieved ≥90% HepB3 coverage; two (4%) achieved ≥90% timely HepB-BD coverage. Four countries achieved hepatitis B control; none achieved elimination of mother-to-child transmission (EMTCT). . . .
Introduction of HepB-BD, improving HepB3 and HepB-BD coverage, and monitoring implementation of EMTCT interventions are essential to accelerating progress toward hepatitis B control and EMTCT in AFR.
Access the MMWR article in HTML ([link removed]) or PDF ([link removed]) .
Related Link
* MMWR's main page ([link removed]) provides access to the MMWR family of publications
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“The Pan American Health Organization: 120 Years Promoting Public Health in the Region of the Americas” (commentary) published by Pan American Journal of Public Health
In the July 14 issue, Pan American Journal of Public Health published The Pan American Health Organization: 120 Years Promoting Public Health in the Region of the Americas ([link removed]) . This commentary was written by Jarbas Barbosa da Silva Jr., MD, PhD, director of the Pan American Health Organization. A portion of the article appears below.
The Region was especially hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic . . . [yet] our Region worked together to vaccinate more than 700 million people. . . .
Over the past decades, I have witnessed Member States work in partnership to eliminate measles, rubella, and neonatal tetanus. . . .
Time and time again, I have found that the key to overcoming our Region’s health challenges is through taking collective actions to find solutions. This requires maintaining close partnerships across country governments and health systems, and openly sharing data, advice, and expertise.
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Upcoming Events
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Today! Virtual: North Dakota State University hosts webinar titled “Vaccines under the Microscope: How Can We Know They Are Safe?” on July 26, 1:00 p.m. (ET).
North Dakota State University's (NDSU) Center for Immunization Research and Education (CIRE) will host a webinar titled Vaccines under the Microscope: How Can We Know They Are Safe? ([link removed]) at 1:00 p.m. (ET) on July 26. During the event, Paul Carson, MD, FACP, medical director, NDSU CIRE, will provide an in-depth look at the vaccine safety surveillance systems used in the United States.
Submit questions for Dr. Carson at [email protected].
Register for the webinar ([link removed]) .
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Virtual: Montgomery County (Pennsylvania) Immunization Coalition hosts webinar titled “Back to School Vaccines” on August 15, 7:00 p.m. (ET)
Montgomery County Immunization Coalition (MCIC) will host its second expert Q&A webinar titled Back to School Vaccines ([link removed]) , 7:00–8:00 p.m. (ET) on August 15. With so many vaccine questions, it can be hard to know who or what to believe. Join a panel of healthcare experts for answers to your questions on back-to-school vaccines.
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Register for the webinar ([link removed]) .
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For more upcoming events, visit our Calendar of Events ([link removed]) .
Editorial Information
Editor-in-Chief
Kelly L. Moore, MD, MPH
Managing Editor
John D. Grabenstein, RPh, PhD
Associate Editor
Sharon G. Humiston, MD, MPH
Writer/Publication Coordinator
Taryn Chapman, MS
Courtnay Londo, MA
Style and Copy Editor
Marian Deegan, JD
Web Edition Managers
Arkady Shakhnovich
Jermaine Royes
Contributing Writer
Laurel H. Wood, MPA
Technical Reviewer
Kayla Ohlde
About IZ Express
Immunize.org welcomes redistribution of this issue of IZ Express or selected articles.
When you do so, please add a note that Immunize.org is the source of the material and provide a link to this issue ([link removed]) .
IZ Express is supported in part by Grant No. 1NH23IP922654 from the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, CDC. Its contents are solely the responsibility of Immunize.org and do not necessarily represent the official views of CDC.
IZ Express Disclaimer ([link removed])
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