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IZ Express #1,723: Immunize.org's redesigned website, kindergarten vaccine coverage, and more
| From | Immunize.org <[email protected]> |
| Subject | IZ Express #1,723: Immunize.org's redesigned website, kindergarten vaccine coverage, and more |
| Date | November 15, 2023 11:45 AM |
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Issue 1,723: November 15, 2023
Top Stories
* Immunize.org's flagship website redesigned with new features to better serve you
* "Coverage with Selected Vaccines and Exemption from School Vaccine Requirements among Children in Kindergarten—United States, 2022–23 School Year" published in MMWR
* "Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2023" published in MMWR
* Immunize.org posts Spanish translations of COVID-19 and RSV VISs, and RSV Preventive Antibody Immunization Information Statement
* “Addressing Vaccination Anxiety for Children: Strategies for Vaccine Recipients and Caregivers”: watch the 3-minute video, part of the Improving the Vaccination Experience Video Series on YouTube
* FDA licenses first vaccine to prevent disease caused by chikungunya virus
* Influenza activity is low nationally but continues to increase in most parts of the country; encourage vaccination before Thanksgiving!
* Immunize.org's Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll for healthcare worker vaccination requirements now features a new facility
* Journalists interview Immunize.org experts
* Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
* Recap: Immunize.org posts new standing orders templates for use of RSV vaccine during pregnancy and RSV preventive antibody for infants
* Recap: Immunize.org adds COVID-19 and RSV vaccine considerations to its popular child and adult screening checklists for contraindications to vaccines
* Recap: Immunize.org updates “Vaccinations Needed during Pregnancy” patient handout to include RSV prevention
Notable Publications
* “Influenza and Up-to-Date COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel—National Healthcare Safety Network, United States, 2022–23 Influenza Season” published in MMWR
* “Declines in Influenza Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel in Acute Care Hospitals during the COVID-19 Pandemic—United States, 2017–2023” published in MMWR
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Top Stories
------------------------------------------------------------
Immunize.org's flagship website redesigned with new features to better serve you
Have you explored the redesigned Immunize.org ([link removed]) flagship website? Our new site features enhanced navigation while continuing to provide the timely, accurate resources developed and refined during our 32 years of experience providing educational support to public health professionals and the nurses, physicians, pharmacists, and medical assistants who administer vaccines.
Our redesign offers streamlined navigation and enhanced searchability on mobile devices and desktops. New features of our redesigned Immunize.org website:
* A homepage navigation guide to introduce you to new search options
* New mobile responsive design: comfortable viewing and navigation from your device
* Enhanced search tools: use built-in filters or enter keywords or phrases to narrow your search
* Filters and keyword searches within our Ask the Experts database
* Featured resources showcased at a glance on our home page
* A streamlined subscription process for IZ Express
Our updated site supports our longtime users while making our resources more easily accessible to new visitors. Explore our redesigned website and discover all the ways we made it easier for you to vaccinate with confidence.
------------------------------------------------------------
"Coverage with Selected Vaccines and Exemption from School Vaccine Requirements among Children in Kindergarten—United States, 2022–23 School Year" published in MMWR
CDC published Coverage with Selected Vaccines and Exemption from School Vaccine Requirements among Children in Kindergarten—United States, 2022–23 School Year ([link removed]) on November 10 in MMWR. A portion of the summary appears below.
From the 2019–20 to the 2021–22 school year, national coverage with state-required vaccines among kindergartners declined from 95% to approximately 93%, ranging from 92.7% for diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis vaccine (DTaP) to 93.1% for polio. . . .
During the 2022–23 school year, coverage remained near 93% for all reported vaccines, ranging from 92.7% for DTaP to 93.1% for measles, mumps, and rubella and polio. The exemption rate increased 0.4 percentage points to 3.0%. Exemptions increased in 41 states, exceeding 5% in 10 states. . . .
Exemptions >5% limit the level of achievable vaccination coverage, which increases the risk for outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccination before school entry or during provisional enrollment periods could reduce exemptions resulting from barriers to vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Access the MMWR article in HTML ([link removed]) or PDF ([link removed]).
Related Link
* CDC: MMWR main page ([link removed]) providing access to the MMWR family of publications
------------------------------------------------------------
"Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2023" published in MMWR
CDC published Tick-Borne Encephalitis [TBE] Vaccine: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2023 ([link removed]) on November 10 in MMWR. This viral vaccine-preventable disease is not present in the Western Hemisphere; the vaccine, available for years in TBE-endemic areas of central Europe, is now licensed for use in the United States for travelers who will be at risk. A portion of the summary appears below.
ACIP recommends TBE vaccine for U.S. persons who are moving or traveling to an area where the disease is endemic and will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary. Extensive exposure can be considered based on the duration of travel and frequency of exposure and might include shorter-term (e.g., <1 month) travelers with daily or frequent exposure or longer-term travelers with regular (e.g., a few times a month) exposure to environments that might harbor infected ticks. In addition, TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas where ticks are likely to be found, with a decision to vaccinate made on the basis of an assessment of their planned activities and itinerary, risk factors for a poor medical outcome, and personal perception and tolerance of risk. In the laboratory setting, ACIP recommends TBE vaccine for laboratory workers with a potential for exposure to TBE virus.
Access the MMWR article in HTML ([link removed]) or PDF ([link removed]).
Related Link
* CDC: MMWR main page ([link removed]) providing access to the MMWR family of publications
------------------------------------------------------------
Immunize.org posts Spanish translations of COVID-19 and RSV VISs, and RSV Preventive Antibody Immunization Information Statement
Thanks to CDC support, Immunize.org expanded its repository of VIS translations ([link removed]). Immunize.org posted new and updated Spanish translations for COVID-19 and RSV VISs and the RSV preventive antibody Immunization Information Statement (IIS).
All translations are available in print-ready PDF format.
COVID-19 VIS (view in English ([link removed])) :
New! Spanish PDF ([link removed]) (RTF ([link removed]) )
RSV VIS (view in English ([link removed]) ):
Updated! Spanish PDF ([link removed]) (RTF ([link removed]) )
RSV Preventive Antibody IIS (view in English ([link removed]) ):
New! Spanish PDF ([link removed]) (RTF ([link removed]) )
The COVID-19 VIS and the RSV Preventive Antibody IIS are new translations. Check the version date of your office copies of the newly updated RSV vaccine translation. Discard translations of the previous RSV VIS version now that a translation of the current version is available.
Related Links
* Immunize.org: Vaccine Information Statement ([link removed]) main page for VISs in 47 languages ([link removed])
* Immunize.org: Dates of Current Vaccine Information Statements ([link removed]) (PDF)
* Immunize.org: COVID-19 vaccine ([link removed]) VIS page
* Immunize.org: RSV vaccine ([link removed]) VIS page
* Immunize.org: RSV Preventive Antibody ([link removed]) IIS page
* CDC: What's New with VISs ([link removed]) web page
* CDC: Current VISs ([link removed]) web page
------------------------------------------------------------
“Addressing Vaccination Anxiety for Children: Strategies for Vaccine Recipients and Caregivers”: watch the 3-minute video, part of the Improving the Vaccination Experience Video Series on YouTube
This week’s feature shares how parents and caregivers can help children better cope with fear and pain related to vaccination in our 3-minute video, Addressing Vaccination Anxiety for Children: Strategies for Vaccine Recipients and Caregivers. ([link removed]) Unlike infants and toddlers, older children can participate in strategies to help themselves feel better. This video is part of Immunize.org’s new Improving the Vaccination Experience Video Series. It 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.
This week's video features the guidance in our new 1-page resource for parents and caregivers of children: Addressing Vaccination Anxiety for Children: Strategies for Vaccine Recipients and Caregivers ([link removed]).
Immunize.org’s series of short videos introduces you to different ways to improve the vaccination experience for infants, children, teens, and adults. Three are for a general audience, and three are for healthcare professionals. As with all Immunize.org resources, these videos are free to download, link, copy, and share.
[link removed]
Like, follow, and share Immunize.org’s social media accounts and encourage colleagues and others interested in vaccination to do likewise:
* Facebook at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* Instagram at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* LinkedIn at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* X (Twitter) at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* YouTube at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
Related Links
* Immunize.org: YouTube channel ([link removed])
* Immunize.org: Improving the Vaccination Experience ([link removed]) main page
* Immunize.org: Improving the Vaccination Experience: Reducing Pain and Anxiety for Children and Adults ([link removed]) on-demand webinar (2/28/23)
* Immunize.org: Improving the Vaccination Experience: Accessible Vaccination for Neurodiverse People at Any Age ([link removed]) on-demand webinar (12/13/22)
* Immunize.org: Clinical Resources: Screening Checklists ([link removed]) main page (includes screening checklists with questions to screen for a history of fainting or feeling faint and for vaccination-related anxiety)
------------------------------------------------------------
FDA licenses first vaccine to prevent disease caused by chikungunya virus
On November 9, 2023, FDA announced the licensing of Ixchiq from Valneva, the first vaccine to prevent chikungunya (CHIK-uhng-GUUN-yuh). It is indicated for people 18 years of age and older who are at increased risk of exposure to chikungunya virus. ACIP is expected to discuss recommendations for the use of chikungunya vaccine at its February 2024 meeting. A portion of the news release appears below.
The highest risk of infection is in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Americas where chikungunya virus-carrying mosquitos are endemic. . . .
Infection with chikungunya virus can lead to severe disease and prolonged health problems, particularly for older adults and individuals with underlying medical conditions.
Related Link
* FDA: FDA Approves First Vaccine to Prevent Disease Caused by Chikungunya Virus ([link removed]) (11/9/23)
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Influenza activity is low nationally but continues to increase in most parts of the country; encourage vaccination before Thanksgiving!
For week 44, ending November 4, CDC’s Weekly U.S. Influenza Surveillance Report, FluView, ([link removed]) shows that seasonal influenza activity is increasing in most parts of the country, most noticeably in the South Central, Southeast, and West Coast regions. Nationwide, 2.9% of patient visits reported through the Outpatient Influenza-Like Illness Surveillance Network (ILINet) were due to respiratory illness that included fever plus a cough or sore throat (i.e., influenza-like illness [ILI]). The national baseline is 2.5%. One influenza-associated pediatric death occurring during the 2023–2024 season has been reported to CDC.
RESP-NET
Visit the CDC Respiratory Virus Hospitalization Surveillance Network (RESP-NET) ([link removed]) for weekly reports of hospitalizations across the United States due to three vaccine-preventable seasonal respiratory viruses: COVID-19, influenza, and RSV.
Influenza Vaccination Dashboard
CDC's Weekly Flu Vaccination Dashboard ([link removed]) shows that as of October 21, an estimated 22 million doses of flu vaccine were administered in pharmacies, and an estimated 11 million doses were administered in medical offices.
CDC recommends everyone age 6 months and older get annual influenza vaccination. Influenza and other vaccines (e.g., COVID-19 vaccine, RSV vaccine) may be given at the same visit, if needed. Locate influenza and COVID-19 vaccines in your area by entering your zip code in the VaccineFinder on Vaccines.gov ([link removed]) or Vacunas.gov ([link removed]) . To be listed as a provider by VaccineFinder, see the information on this website ([link removed]).
Related Links
* CDC: Weekly National Flu Vaccination Dashboard ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: FluView ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: RESP-NET ([link removed]) main page
* Immunize.org: Vaccines A-Z: Influenza ([link removed]) main page
* Immunize.org: Ask the Experts: Influenza ([link removed]) main page
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Immunize.org's Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll for healthcare worker vaccination requirements now features a new facility
Immunize.org's Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll ([link removed]) recognizes facilities that take a stand for patient safety by implementing policies requiring healthcare personnel influenza vaccination. Immunize.org recently welcomed an additional healthcare organization.
* Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command, Oak Harbor, WA
Eligibility:
* Eligible organizations: hospitals, long-term care facilities, medical practices, pharmacies, professional organizations, health departments, and other government entities
* Requirements:
+ Your policy must require influenza vaccination for all staff
+ The application ([link removed]) must describe measures to prevent transmission of influenza from unvaccinated personnel to patients (e.g., masking for the entire work shift)
Related Links
* Immunize.org: Honor Roll Honorees: Influenza ([link removed])
* About the Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll ([link removed])
------------------------------------------------------------
Journalists interview Immunize.org experts
Journalists seek out Immunize.org experts to help explain vaccines to the public and policy makers. We help the media understand and communicate the complex work vaccinators do. Here is a selection of our recent citations.
* Washington Post: CDC Data Shows Highest Level Yet of Vaccine Exemptions for Kindergartners ([link removed]) (11/9/23)
* Salon: Few Kids Are Getting the Latest COVID Shots. Is It Misinformation or a Lack of Access? ([link removed]) (11/7/23)
------------------------------------------------------------
Vaccines in the news
These recent articles convey the potential risks of vaccine-preventable diseases and the importance of vaccination.
* Medical Express: Why Do Some Vaccines (Polio, Measles) Prevent Diseases, While Others (COVID-19, Flu) Only Reduce Their Severity? ([link removed]) (11/3/23)
------------------------------------------------------------
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
------------------------------------------------------------
Recap: Immunize.org posts new standing orders templates for use of RSV vaccine during pregnancy and RSV preventive antibody for infants
In recent weeks, ACIP made routine recommendations for the prevention of RSV in infancy through either maternal RSV vaccination or infant immunization with nirsevimab RSV preventive antibody. Immunize.org now offers two new standing orders templates: one for RSV vaccination during pregnancy, and one for nirsevimab for infants. The nirsevimab standing order template reflects the revised guidelines for eligibility for the 2023–24 season issued by CDC on October 23 in its Health Alert Network advisory concerning the shortage of nirsevimab in its initial season. The templates are:
* Standing Orders for Administering Pfizer Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine (Abrysvo) during Pregnancy ([link removed])
* Standing Orders for Administering Nirsevimab RSV Preventive Antibody to Infants (2023–24 Season Only) ([link removed])
Related Links
* Immunize.org: Clinical Resources: Standing Orders Templates ([link removed]) main page
* CDC Health Alert Network Advisory: Limited Availability of Nirsevimab in the United States—Interim CDC Recommendations to Protect Infants from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) during the 2023–2024 Respiratory Virus Season ([link removed]) (10/23/23)
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Recap: Immunize.org adds COVID-19 and RSV vaccine considerations to its popular child and adult screening checklists for contraindications to vaccines
Immunize.org’s popular screening checklists for contraindications to vaccines for both children and adults were updated to include COVID-19-specific contraindications and precautions. The checklists may also be used for RSV vaccine. The screening checklists are:
* Screening Checklist for Contraindications to Vaccines for Children and Teens ([link removed])
* Screening Checklist for Contraindications to Vaccines for Adults ([link removed])
Related Links
* Immunize.org: Clinical Resources: Screening Checklists ([link removed]) main page
* Immunize.org: Clinical Resources A-Z ([link removed]) main page, where you can filter by topic, vaccine, language, or other criteria
------------------------------------------------------------
Recap: Immunize.org updates “Vaccinations Needed during Pregnancy” patient handout to include RSV prevention
Immunize.org, in partnership with American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ([link removed]) (ACOG), updated Vaccinations Needed during Pregnancy ([link removed]), a 1-page handout for patients. This patient education resource now includes the need for RSV prevention through maternal vaccination or infant immunization. It also addresses the need for hepatitis B screening during every pregnancy, and routine HepB vaccination of unvaccinated, susceptible pregnant people. Download and share this important resource with pregnant patients.
Related Links
* Immunize.org: Clinical Resources: Pregnancy and Vaccines ([link removed]) main page
* Immunize.org: Clinical Resources A-Z ([link removed]) main page, where you can filter by topic, vaccine, language, or other criteria
------------------------------------------------------------
Notable Publications
------------------------------------------------------------
“Influenza and Up-to-Date COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel—National Healthcare Safety Network, United States, 2022–23 Influenza Season” published in MMWR
CDC published Influenza and Up-to-Date COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel—National Healthcare Safety Network, United States, 2022–23 Influenza Season ([link removed]) on November 10 in MMWR. A portion of the summary appears below.
CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommend that health care personnel (HCP) receive an annual influenza vaccine and stay up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccination. . . .
During the 2022–23 influenza season, influenza vaccination coverage was 81% among HCP at acute care hospitals and 47% among those at nursing homes. Up-to-date COVID-19 vaccination coverage was 17% among HCP at acute care hospitals and 23% among those at nursing homes. . . .
There is a need to promote evidence-based strategies to improve vaccination coverage among HCP. Tailored strategies might be useful to reach all HCP with recommended vaccines to protect them and their patients from vaccine-preventable respiratory diseases.
Access the MMWR article in HTML ([link removed]) or PDF ([link removed]).
Related Link
* CDC: MMWR main page ([link removed]) providing access to the MMWR family of publications
------------------------------------------------------------
“Declines in Influenza Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel in Acute Care Hospitals during the COVID-19 Pandemic—United States, 2017–2023” published in MMWR
CDC published Declines in Influenza Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel in Acute Care Hospitals during the COVID-19 Pandemic—United States, 2017–2023 ([link removed]) on November 10 in MMWR. A summary appears below.
CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommend that health care personnel (HCP) receive an annual influenza vaccination to reduce influenza-related morbidity and mortality. . . .
HCP working in acute care hospitals during the 2017–2023 influenza seasons were less likely to be vaccinated against influenza during the COVID-19 pandemic (influenza seasons 2020–21 through 2022–23) than before the pandemic (influenza seasons 2017–18 through 2019–20). . . .
Efforts are needed to implement evidence-based strategies to increase vaccination coverage among HCP. HCP should receive seasonal influenza vaccines to protect other HCP and patients from influenza-related morbidity and mortality.
Access the MMWR article in HTML ([link removed]) or PDF ([link removed]) .
Related Link
* CDC: MMWR main page ([link removed]) providing access to the MMWR family of publications
------------------------------------------------------------
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])
ISSN: 2771-8085
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Issue 1,723: November 15, 2023
Top Stories
* Immunize.org's flagship website redesigned with new features to better serve you
* "Coverage with Selected Vaccines and Exemption from School Vaccine Requirements among Children in Kindergarten—United States, 2022–23 School Year" published in MMWR
* "Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2023" published in MMWR
* Immunize.org posts Spanish translations of COVID-19 and RSV VISs, and RSV Preventive Antibody Immunization Information Statement
* “Addressing Vaccination Anxiety for Children: Strategies for Vaccine Recipients and Caregivers”: watch the 3-minute video, part of the Improving the Vaccination Experience Video Series on YouTube
* FDA licenses first vaccine to prevent disease caused by chikungunya virus
* Influenza activity is low nationally but continues to increase in most parts of the country; encourage vaccination before Thanksgiving!
* Immunize.org's Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll for healthcare worker vaccination requirements now features a new facility
* Journalists interview Immunize.org experts
* Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
* Recap: Immunize.org posts new standing orders templates for use of RSV vaccine during pregnancy and RSV preventive antibody for infants
* Recap: Immunize.org adds COVID-19 and RSV vaccine considerations to its popular child and adult screening checklists for contraindications to vaccines
* Recap: Immunize.org updates “Vaccinations Needed during Pregnancy” patient handout to include RSV prevention
Notable Publications
* “Influenza and Up-to-Date COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel—National Healthcare Safety Network, United States, 2022–23 Influenza Season” published in MMWR
* “Declines in Influenza Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel in Acute Care Hospitals during the COVID-19 Pandemic—United States, 2017–2023” published in MMWR
------------------------------------------------------------
Top Stories
------------------------------------------------------------
Immunize.org's flagship website redesigned with new features to better serve you
Have you explored the redesigned Immunize.org ([link removed]) flagship website? Our new site features enhanced navigation while continuing to provide the timely, accurate resources developed and refined during our 32 years of experience providing educational support to public health professionals and the nurses, physicians, pharmacists, and medical assistants who administer vaccines.
Our redesign offers streamlined navigation and enhanced searchability on mobile devices and desktops. New features of our redesigned Immunize.org website:
* A homepage navigation guide to introduce you to new search options
* New mobile responsive design: comfortable viewing and navigation from your device
* Enhanced search tools: use built-in filters or enter keywords or phrases to narrow your search
* Filters and keyword searches within our Ask the Experts database
* Featured resources showcased at a glance on our home page
* A streamlined subscription process for IZ Express
Our updated site supports our longtime users while making our resources more easily accessible to new visitors. Explore our redesigned website and discover all the ways we made it easier for you to vaccinate with confidence.
------------------------------------------------------------
"Coverage with Selected Vaccines and Exemption from School Vaccine Requirements among Children in Kindergarten—United States, 2022–23 School Year" published in MMWR
CDC published Coverage with Selected Vaccines and Exemption from School Vaccine Requirements among Children in Kindergarten—United States, 2022–23 School Year ([link removed]) on November 10 in MMWR. A portion of the summary appears below.
From the 2019–20 to the 2021–22 school year, national coverage with state-required vaccines among kindergartners declined from 95% to approximately 93%, ranging from 92.7% for diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis vaccine (DTaP) to 93.1% for polio. . . .
During the 2022–23 school year, coverage remained near 93% for all reported vaccines, ranging from 92.7% for DTaP to 93.1% for measles, mumps, and rubella and polio. The exemption rate increased 0.4 percentage points to 3.0%. Exemptions increased in 41 states, exceeding 5% in 10 states. . . .
Exemptions >5% limit the level of achievable vaccination coverage, which increases the risk for outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccination before school entry or during provisional enrollment periods could reduce exemptions resulting from barriers to vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Access the MMWR article in HTML ([link removed]) or PDF ([link removed]).
Related Link
* CDC: MMWR main page ([link removed]) providing access to the MMWR family of publications
------------------------------------------------------------
"Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2023" published in MMWR
CDC published Tick-Borne Encephalitis [TBE] Vaccine: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2023 ([link removed]) on November 10 in MMWR. This viral vaccine-preventable disease is not present in the Western Hemisphere; the vaccine, available for years in TBE-endemic areas of central Europe, is now licensed for use in the United States for travelers who will be at risk. A portion of the summary appears below.
ACIP recommends TBE vaccine for U.S. persons who are moving or traveling to an area where the disease is endemic and will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary. Extensive exposure can be considered based on the duration of travel and frequency of exposure and might include shorter-term (e.g., <1 month) travelers with daily or frequent exposure or longer-term travelers with regular (e.g., a few times a month) exposure to environments that might harbor infected ticks. In addition, TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas where ticks are likely to be found, with a decision to vaccinate made on the basis of an assessment of their planned activities and itinerary, risk factors for a poor medical outcome, and personal perception and tolerance of risk. In the laboratory setting, ACIP recommends TBE vaccine for laboratory workers with a potential for exposure to TBE virus.
Access the MMWR article in HTML ([link removed]) or PDF ([link removed]).
Related Link
* CDC: MMWR main page ([link removed]) providing access to the MMWR family of publications
------------------------------------------------------------
Immunize.org posts Spanish translations of COVID-19 and RSV VISs, and RSV Preventive Antibody Immunization Information Statement
Thanks to CDC support, Immunize.org expanded its repository of VIS translations ([link removed]). Immunize.org posted new and updated Spanish translations for COVID-19 and RSV VISs and the RSV preventive antibody Immunization Information Statement (IIS).
All translations are available in print-ready PDF format.
COVID-19 VIS (view in English ([link removed])) :
New! Spanish PDF ([link removed]) (RTF ([link removed]) )
RSV VIS (view in English ([link removed]) ):
Updated! Spanish PDF ([link removed]) (RTF ([link removed]) )
RSV Preventive Antibody IIS (view in English ([link removed]) ):
New! Spanish PDF ([link removed]) (RTF ([link removed]) )
The COVID-19 VIS and the RSV Preventive Antibody IIS are new translations. Check the version date of your office copies of the newly updated RSV vaccine translation. Discard translations of the previous RSV VIS version now that a translation of the current version is available.
Related Links
* Immunize.org: Vaccine Information Statement ([link removed]) main page for VISs in 47 languages ([link removed])
* Immunize.org: Dates of Current Vaccine Information Statements ([link removed]) (PDF)
* Immunize.org: COVID-19 vaccine ([link removed]) VIS page
* Immunize.org: RSV vaccine ([link removed]) VIS page
* Immunize.org: RSV Preventive Antibody ([link removed]) IIS page
* CDC: What's New with VISs ([link removed]) web page
* CDC: Current VISs ([link removed]) web page
------------------------------------------------------------
“Addressing Vaccination Anxiety for Children: Strategies for Vaccine Recipients and Caregivers”: watch the 3-minute video, part of the Improving the Vaccination Experience Video Series on YouTube
This week’s feature shares how parents and caregivers can help children better cope with fear and pain related to vaccination in our 3-minute video, Addressing Vaccination Anxiety for Children: Strategies for Vaccine Recipients and Caregivers. ([link removed]) Unlike infants and toddlers, older children can participate in strategies to help themselves feel better. This video is part of Immunize.org’s new Improving the Vaccination Experience Video Series. It 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.
This week's video features the guidance in our new 1-page resource for parents and caregivers of children: Addressing Vaccination Anxiety for Children: Strategies for Vaccine Recipients and Caregivers ([link removed]).
Immunize.org’s series of short videos introduces you to different ways to improve the vaccination experience for infants, children, teens, and adults. Three are for a general audience, and three are for healthcare professionals. As with all Immunize.org resources, these videos are free to download, link, copy, and share.
[link removed]
Like, follow, and share Immunize.org’s social media accounts and encourage colleagues and others interested in vaccination to do likewise:
* Facebook at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* Instagram at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* LinkedIn at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* X (Twitter) at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
* YouTube at ImmunizeOrg ([link removed])
Related Links
* Immunize.org: YouTube channel ([link removed])
* Immunize.org: Improving the Vaccination Experience ([link removed]) main page
* Immunize.org: Improving the Vaccination Experience: Reducing Pain and Anxiety for Children and Adults ([link removed]) on-demand webinar (2/28/23)
* Immunize.org: Improving the Vaccination Experience: Accessible Vaccination for Neurodiverse People at Any Age ([link removed]) on-demand webinar (12/13/22)
* Immunize.org: Clinical Resources: Screening Checklists ([link removed]) main page (includes screening checklists with questions to screen for a history of fainting or feeling faint and for vaccination-related anxiety)
------------------------------------------------------------
FDA licenses first vaccine to prevent disease caused by chikungunya virus
On November 9, 2023, FDA announced the licensing of Ixchiq from Valneva, the first vaccine to prevent chikungunya (CHIK-uhng-GUUN-yuh). It is indicated for people 18 years of age and older who are at increased risk of exposure to chikungunya virus. ACIP is expected to discuss recommendations for the use of chikungunya vaccine at its February 2024 meeting. A portion of the news release appears below.
The highest risk of infection is in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Americas where chikungunya virus-carrying mosquitos are endemic. . . .
Infection with chikungunya virus can lead to severe disease and prolonged health problems, particularly for older adults and individuals with underlying medical conditions.
Related Link
* FDA: FDA Approves First Vaccine to Prevent Disease Caused by Chikungunya Virus ([link removed]) (11/9/23)
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Influenza activity is low nationally but continues to increase in most parts of the country; encourage vaccination before Thanksgiving!
For week 44, ending November 4, CDC’s Weekly U.S. Influenza Surveillance Report, FluView, ([link removed]) shows that seasonal influenza activity is increasing in most parts of the country, most noticeably in the South Central, Southeast, and West Coast regions. Nationwide, 2.9% of patient visits reported through the Outpatient Influenza-Like Illness Surveillance Network (ILINet) were due to respiratory illness that included fever plus a cough or sore throat (i.e., influenza-like illness [ILI]). The national baseline is 2.5%. One influenza-associated pediatric death occurring during the 2023–2024 season has been reported to CDC.
RESP-NET
Visit the CDC Respiratory Virus Hospitalization Surveillance Network (RESP-NET) ([link removed]) for weekly reports of hospitalizations across the United States due to three vaccine-preventable seasonal respiratory viruses: COVID-19, influenza, and RSV.
Influenza Vaccination Dashboard
CDC's Weekly Flu Vaccination Dashboard ([link removed]) shows that as of October 21, an estimated 22 million doses of flu vaccine were administered in pharmacies, and an estimated 11 million doses were administered in medical offices.
CDC recommends everyone age 6 months and older get annual influenza vaccination. Influenza and other vaccines (e.g., COVID-19 vaccine, RSV vaccine) may be given at the same visit, if needed. Locate influenza and COVID-19 vaccines in your area by entering your zip code in the VaccineFinder on Vaccines.gov ([link removed]) or Vacunas.gov ([link removed]) . To be listed as a provider by VaccineFinder, see the information on this website ([link removed]).
Related Links
* CDC: Weekly National Flu Vaccination Dashboard ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: FluView ([link removed]) main page
* CDC: RESP-NET ([link removed]) main page
* Immunize.org: Vaccines A-Z: Influenza ([link removed]) main page
* Immunize.org: Ask the Experts: Influenza ([link removed]) main page
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Immunize.org's Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll for healthcare worker vaccination requirements now features a new facility
Immunize.org's Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll ([link removed]) recognizes facilities that take a stand for patient safety by implementing policies requiring healthcare personnel influenza vaccination. Immunize.org recently welcomed an additional healthcare organization.
* Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command, Oak Harbor, WA
Eligibility:
* Eligible organizations: hospitals, long-term care facilities, medical practices, pharmacies, professional organizations, health departments, and other government entities
* Requirements:
+ Your policy must require influenza vaccination for all staff
+ The application ([link removed]) must describe measures to prevent transmission of influenza from unvaccinated personnel to patients (e.g., masking for the entire work shift)
Related Links
* Immunize.org: Honor Roll Honorees: Influenza ([link removed])
* About the Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll ([link removed])
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Journalists interview Immunize.org experts
Journalists seek out Immunize.org experts to help explain vaccines to the public and policy makers. We help the media understand and communicate the complex work vaccinators do. Here is a selection of our recent citations.
* Washington Post: CDC Data Shows Highest Level Yet of Vaccine Exemptions for Kindergartners ([link removed]) (11/9/23)
* Salon: Few Kids Are Getting the Latest COVID Shots. Is It Misinformation or a Lack of Access? ([link removed]) (11/7/23)
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Vaccines in the news
These recent articles convey the potential risks of vaccine-preventable diseases and the importance of vaccination.
* Medical Express: Why Do Some Vaccines (Polio, Measles) Prevent Diseases, While Others (COVID-19, Flu) Only Reduce Their Severity? ([link removed]) (11/3/23)
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Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
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Recap: Immunize.org posts new standing orders templates for use of RSV vaccine during pregnancy and RSV preventive antibody for infants
In recent weeks, ACIP made routine recommendations for the prevention of RSV in infancy through either maternal RSV vaccination or infant immunization with nirsevimab RSV preventive antibody. Immunize.org now offers two new standing orders templates: one for RSV vaccination during pregnancy, and one for nirsevimab for infants. The nirsevimab standing order template reflects the revised guidelines for eligibility for the 2023–24 season issued by CDC on October 23 in its Health Alert Network advisory concerning the shortage of nirsevimab in its initial season. The templates are:
* Standing Orders for Administering Pfizer Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine (Abrysvo) during Pregnancy ([link removed])
* Standing Orders for Administering Nirsevimab RSV Preventive Antibody to Infants (2023–24 Season Only) ([link removed])
Related Links
* Immunize.org: Clinical Resources: Standing Orders Templates ([link removed]) main page
* CDC Health Alert Network Advisory: Limited Availability of Nirsevimab in the United States—Interim CDC Recommendations to Protect Infants from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) during the 2023–2024 Respiratory Virus Season ([link removed]) (10/23/23)
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Recap: Immunize.org adds COVID-19 and RSV vaccine considerations to its popular child and adult screening checklists for contraindications to vaccines
Immunize.org’s popular screening checklists for contraindications to vaccines for both children and adults were updated to include COVID-19-specific contraindications and precautions. The checklists may also be used for RSV vaccine. The screening checklists are:
* Screening Checklist for Contraindications to Vaccines for Children and Teens ([link removed])
* Screening Checklist for Contraindications to Vaccines for Adults ([link removed])
Related Links
* Immunize.org: Clinical Resources: Screening Checklists ([link removed]) main page
* Immunize.org: Clinical Resources A-Z ([link removed]) main page, where you can filter by topic, vaccine, language, or other criteria
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Recap: Immunize.org updates “Vaccinations Needed during Pregnancy” patient handout to include RSV prevention
Immunize.org, in partnership with American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ([link removed]) (ACOG), updated Vaccinations Needed during Pregnancy ([link removed]), a 1-page handout for patients. This patient education resource now includes the need for RSV prevention through maternal vaccination or infant immunization. It also addresses the need for hepatitis B screening during every pregnancy, and routine HepB vaccination of unvaccinated, susceptible pregnant people. Download and share this important resource with pregnant patients.
Related Links
* Immunize.org: Clinical Resources: Pregnancy and Vaccines ([link removed]) main page
* Immunize.org: Clinical Resources A-Z ([link removed]) main page, where you can filter by topic, vaccine, language, or other criteria
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Notable Publications
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“Influenza and Up-to-Date COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel—National Healthcare Safety Network, United States, 2022–23 Influenza Season” published in MMWR
CDC published Influenza and Up-to-Date COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel—National Healthcare Safety Network, United States, 2022–23 Influenza Season ([link removed]) on November 10 in MMWR. A portion of the summary appears below.
CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommend that health care personnel (HCP) receive an annual influenza vaccine and stay up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccination. . . .
During the 2022–23 influenza season, influenza vaccination coverage was 81% among HCP at acute care hospitals and 47% among those at nursing homes. Up-to-date COVID-19 vaccination coverage was 17% among HCP at acute care hospitals and 23% among those at nursing homes. . . .
There is a need to promote evidence-based strategies to improve vaccination coverage among HCP. Tailored strategies might be useful to reach all HCP with recommended vaccines to protect them and their patients from vaccine-preventable respiratory diseases.
Access the MMWR article in HTML ([link removed]) or PDF ([link removed]).
Related Link
* CDC: MMWR main page ([link removed]) providing access to the MMWR family of publications
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“Declines in Influenza Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel in Acute Care Hospitals during the COVID-19 Pandemic—United States, 2017–2023” published in MMWR
CDC published Declines in Influenza Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel in Acute Care Hospitals during the COVID-19 Pandemic—United States, 2017–2023 ([link removed]) on November 10 in MMWR. A summary appears below.
CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommend that health care personnel (HCP) receive an annual influenza vaccination to reduce influenza-related morbidity and mortality. . . .
HCP working in acute care hospitals during the 2017–2023 influenza seasons were less likely to be vaccinated against influenza during the COVID-19 pandemic (influenza seasons 2020–21 through 2022–23) than before the pandemic (influenza seasons 2017–18 through 2019–20). . . .
Efforts are needed to implement evidence-based strategies to increase vaccination coverage among HCP. HCP should receive seasonal influenza vaccines to protect other HCP and patients from influenza-related morbidity and mortality.
Access the MMWR article in HTML ([link removed]) or PDF ([link removed]) .
Related Link
* CDC: MMWR main page ([link removed]) providing access to the MMWR family of publications
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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])
ISSN: 2771-8085
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