COCA Conference Call Resources
Archived COCA Conference Calls are available at: http://emergency.cdc.gov/coca/callinfo.asp
Free CE credit/contact hours (CME, CNE, ACPE, CEU, and CECH) are available for most COCA calls.
CDC Science Clips
CDC Science Clips is a service of the CDC Public Health Library and Information Center and CDC's Office of the Chief Science Officer. Articles listed in the CDC Science Clips are selected to provide current awareness of public health literature. Visit the CDC Science Clips webpage for information on the Top Ten Articles of the Week, CDC Authored Publications, and Public Health Articles Noted in the Media. http://www.cdc.gov/phlic/sciclips/issues/
CDC Health Partners Outreach Facebook Page
The CDC has launched a new Facebook page for Health Partners. This page will provide real time updates, guidance, and situational awareness for public health partners about how to prepare and respond to public health emergencies and disasters. Become a fan today! “Like” the page to receive updates, participate in future conversations, and more. http://www.facebook.com/CDCHealthPartnersOutreach
The Emergency Risk Communication Branch (ERCB) Health Partners Outreach Team works to enhance partners’ knowledge of emerging threats and their effects on human populations, and to provide relevant, timely information to help manage these threats by developing and maintaining mechanisms for communication. This is a product of the Health Partners Outreach Team’s Clinician Communication Section (CCS) who is responsible for the management of all COCA products.
For information on this and other clinical issues or to send your feedback please contact CCS at coca@cdc.gov.
The Health Partners Outreach Team offers a variety of free tools and resources to help you enhance your knowledge of emergency preparedness and response: CDC Health Partners Outreach Facebook page - real time updates, guidance, and situational awareness for public health partners on Facebook. Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity–resources for Healthcare providers. Subscribe the COCA RSS Feed - get notified of conference calls, updates, and CDC guidance for health providers. Crisis & Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) Training - course on the fundamentals of CDC's Crisis & Emergency Risk Communication. Selective National Assessment Profiles (SNAPS) - snapshots of state population data and local-level community profile information. Risk Communicator –quarterly online newsletter providing guidance for emergency risk communication strategy.
Two free new resources are now available on CDC's website to promote
the vaccination of healthcare workers: an 8-1/2" by 11".
flyer and a 16" by 24" poster. Both pieces were developed
with the input from 65 healthcare workers across the country.They
can be printed in black and white, or color, and can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/default.htm#healthcare
NATIONAL INSTITUTE for OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY and HEALTH -
December 2005
Influenza Vaccination of Health-Care Personnel Read
More
CDC Updates
April 2007
New Bulletin Alliance Program A joint publication between OSHA and NIOSH/CDC titled, "Use of
Blunt-tip Suture Needles to Decrease Percutaneous Injuries to
Surgical Personnel" has been posted on either the OSHA or NIOSH web
sites.
The bulletin supports the use of blunt-tip suture needles in surgery
when clinically appropriate. It was reviewed and incorporates
recommendations from JCAHO, practicing surgeons, members of the
American College of Surgeons, the Association of Peri-Operative
Registered Nurses, OSHA regional offices, NIOSH, CDC's National
Center for Infectious Diseases (NCID), academia, and the Council of
State and Territorial Epidemiologists. The link to the OSHA news
release with links to the SHIB on both the OSHA and the NIOSH
WebPages is
OSHA and NIOSH intend to promote the SHIB by wide dissemination to
all stakeholders with an interest in surgical safety and would
appreciate the assistance of Alliance Program participants, (e.g.,
JCAHO, AORN, AOHP, others) in ensuring that their members receive
notice of this bulletin. OSHA highly value the role Alliance
Programs play in the dissemination strategy.
CDC Health Update April 15, 2006
Multi-state Mumps Outbreak Download
update
CDC Health Alert Update, Anthrax Feb 22, 2006 Read
More
CDC Updates To Information And Guidance
The following updates were made to CDC information and guidance
from September 8-15, 2005.
Hurricane-Related Documents and Resources Recently Released or
Updated Keep it With You (KIWY) Personal Medical Information Form
The KIWY form is not intended to replace hardcopy or electronic
medical records, but is an interim communication tool to assist
individuals as they navigate a potentially complex system of temporary
support, housing, and clinical services. Clinicians are encouraged
to adapt format and content as necessary to best serve the specific
situation, population, and clinical care needs. Please see attached
forms for more details.
For State and Local Public Health Department staff who would like
to arrange a printing of the KIWY Personal Medical Record for use
at the state's evacuation centers, the logistics officer should
contact the CDC DEOC or call the DEOC switchboard at 770-488-7100.
CDC Issues New Guidelines for Detection of Tuberculosis
Dated 12/16/2005
CDC Issues New Guidelines for Detection of Tuberculosis; Recommends
QuantiFERON-TB GOLD as Alternative to Traditional Skin Test Posted
on: 12/16/2005 Read
more
CDC Health Advisory
Interim Immunization Recommendations For Individuals Displaced
By Hurricane Katrina - September 5, 2005 Download Health Advisory
Guidelines for the Management of Acute Diarrhea - September
5, 2005 Download Health Advisory
Cases Of Vibrio Vulnificus Identified Among Hurricane Katrina
Evacuees - September 07, 2005 Download Health Advisory
FDA and CDC Issue Alert on Menactra Meningococcal Vaccine Download Health Advisory
MMWR Recommendations and Reports
These
reports contain in-depth articles that relay policy statements for
prevention and treatment on all areas in CDC's scope of responsibility
(e.g., recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization
Practices). Read
More
[OEM] MMWR/R&R 05-12-16, QuantiFERON(r)-TB Gold Test
is OK
Guidelines for Using the QuantiFERON(r)-TB Gold Test for Detecting
Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection, United States
Prepared by Gerald H. Mazurek, MD, John Jereb, MD, Phillip LoBue,
MD, Michael F. Iademarco, MD, Beverly Metchock, PhD, Andrew Vernon,
MD Division of Tuberculosis Elimination, National Center for HIV,
STD, and TB PreventionThe material in this report originated in
the National Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention, Kevin Fenton,
MD, PhD, Director, and the Division of Tuberculosis Elimination,
Kenneth G. Castro, MD, Director.Corresponding address: CDC/National
Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention/Division of Tuberculosis
Elimination; 1600 Clifton Road, NE, MS E-10, Atlanta, GA 30333.
Telephone: 404-639-8120;
Fax: 404-639-8604;
E-mail: mai9@cdc.gov.
January 15, 2010
Dear Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity (COCA) Partner,
The CDC is committed to providing information to its partners, so that you can stay informed and communicate accurate information to your constituents. Please remember to send any questions or comments to coca@cdc.gov. We want to ensure that these updates are timely and helpful. To assist in your efforts, please see the following materials and resources:
H1N1 Influenza Updates
A. CDC H1N1 Key Points and FluView
Attached are the updated CDC key points for seasonal and 2009 H1N1 flu as of January 15, 2010. The updated FluView for 2009-2010 Influenza Season Week 1 ending January 9, 2010 is available at: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
B. MMWR Article: Interim Results: Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccination Coverage
MMWR article Interim Results: Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccination Coverage - United States is now available. CDC analyzed results from the National 2009 H1N1 Flu Survey (NHFS) and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey, conducted December 27, 2009--January 2, 2010, and December 1--27, 2009, respectively. The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/
mmwrhtml/mm59e0115a1.htm
C. New and Updated Interim Guidance and Links to Resources for Clinicians
A. Injury Information for Clinicians
Attached please find important earthquake related factsheets for providers that have been posted to CDC’s Emergency Preparedness and Response webpage. Links to these resources online are below.
B. Haiti Disaster Volunteering
There has been an outpouring of offers from the medical community to assist in Haiti response. If you or anyone else is interested in volunteering register at http://www.cidi.org/incident/haiti-10a/. HHS is logging every offer of assistance and will contact individuals if a more direct means of contributing becomes available.
C. Message from Medical Reserve Corps (Information about MRC)
The images we are seeing of the devastation in Haiti are incredibly unsettling, and, as in many previous disasters, Americans are again asking what they can do to help. Understandably, many health professionals are asking about the possibilities to volunteer in response to the earthquake. While not everyone can go to the site of the current disaster, there are valuable contributions they can make in their local community as a volunteer with the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC).
The Medical Reserve Corps is a national network of local groups of volunteers committed to improving the health, safety and resiliency of their communities. MRC volunteers include medical and public health professionals, as well as others interested in strengthening the public health infrastructure and improving the preparedness and response capabilities of their local jurisdiction. MRC units identify, screen, train and organize the volunteers, and utilize them to support routine public health activities and augment preparedness and response efforts. There are currently 873 MRC units, and just over 200,000 MRC volunteers, in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and several territories.
Every community faces hazards and has vulnerable populations. Those communities that are fortunate to have active MRC units are likely to be more resilient in the face of those hazards and better able to assist those in need. Right now, for example, with the current possibility for the repatriation of thousands of U.S. citizens living in Haiti, there could be a need to serve these people locally. MRC volunteers are poised to help.
Rather than wait for disaster to strike at home, we need to build strong resources now. Please consider joining or supporting your local MRC unit. To find out more about the MRC, please go to www.medicalreservecorps.gov, send an email to MRCcontact@hhs.gov, or call 301-443-4951.
D. New and Updated Interim Guidance and Links to Resources for Clinicians
On behalf of the Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity (COCA)
Joint Information Center (JIC) Clinician Communication Team
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
January 17, 2010
The January 12 earthquake in Haiti has resulted in a huge response effort involving our global, domestic, government, and non-government partners. CDC has already deployed staff to assist in the effort and anticipates many more will be working in Haiti over the coming months. Your organization may also be actively engaged in the response, or may become involved over time. The health and safety of the Haitian people is the focus the response efforts. In order for that to be achieved, relief workers from our own staff and volunteers from our organizations must also be protected from injury and illness.
CDC has updated a fact sheet Guidance for Relief Workers and Others Traveling to Haiti for Earthquake Response that describes steps that relief workers can take before, during and after a trip to Haiti to stay healthy and avoid injury.
COCA is committed to providing information to its partners, so that you can stay informed and communicate accurate information to your constituents. Please find attached the most up-to-date version of the Guidance for Relief Workers and Others Traveling to Haiti for Earthquake Response. The updated document can also be downloaded at http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/content/
news-announcements/relief-workers-haiti.aspx
Additional resources and links to information for you to share with your members and colleagues are below. Please feel free to contact us if you need additional information.
New and Updated Interim Guidance and Links to Earthquake Resources for Clinicians
On behalf of the Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity (COCA)
Joint Information Center (JIC) Clinician Communication Team
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Distributed via Health Alert Network
Friday, January 29, 2010 19:15 ET (7:15 PM ET)
CDCHAN-000306-2010-01-29-UPD-N
Non-Safety-Related Voluntary Recall of Unused Doses from Certain Lots of Sanofi Pasteur H1N1 Vaccine in Pre-Filled Syringes
Summary
As part of its quality assurance program, Sanofi Pasteur, Inc., performs routine, ongoing testing of influenza vaccines after the vaccine has been distributed to health care providers to ensure that the vaccine continues to meet required specifications. In recent testing of its influenza A (H1N1) monovalent vaccine, Sanofi Pasteur found five distributed lots of single-dose, pre-filled syringe pediatric (0.25 mL) vaccine and one distributed lot of single-dose pre-filled syringe for older children and adults (0.5 mL) vaccine had potency below pre-specified limits. The manufacturer is conducting a non-safety related voluntary recall of any unused doses of these affected lots of vaccine. Information will be sent by Sanofi Pasteur to providers who received vaccine from the affected lots.
Background
After performing routine tests, Sanofi Pasteur notified the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that the potency in five lots of pediatric pre-filled syringes and one lot of adult pre-filled syringes that had been distributed to providers was later found to have dropped below a pre-specified limit.
Recommendations
While the potency of these lots is now below the manufacturer’s specification for the product, CDC and FDA are in agreement that the small decrease in antigen content is unlikely to result in a clinically significant reduction in immune response among persons who have received the vaccine. For this reason, there is no need to revaccinate persons who have received vaccine from these lots.
Providers will be asked to return any unused vaccine from the affected lots to the manufacturer. The only vaccine affected by this recall is supplied in pre-filled syringes and is identified by the following lot numbers:
UT023AA, UT023BA, UT023CA, UT023EA, UT023FA
(NDC # 49281-650-25, which also may be recorded as # 49281-0650-25), 0.25 mL syringes in 10-packs
UT037AA
(NDC # 49281-650-90, which also may be recorded as # 49281-0650-90), 0.5 mL syringes in 25-packs
These lots were shipped to providers between November 2009 and January 2010. Sanofi Pasteur will send directions for returning unused vaccine from these lots to providers.
All vaccines are thoroughly tested prior to release and shipping for safety, purity, and potency. The affected lots met all required specifications at the time of release. CDC and FDA have determined that there are no safety concerns for people who have received these vaccines.
The potency of the affected lots of vaccine is only slightly below the specification limit. Vaccine doses from these lots are still expected to be effective in stimulating a protective response. There is no need to re-administer a dose to those who received vaccine from these lots.
As is recommended for all 2009 H1N1 vaccines, all children less than 10 years old should get the recommended two doses of H1N1 vaccine approximately a month apart for the optimal immune response. So, children less than 10 years old who have only received one dose of vaccine thus far should still receive a second dose of 2009 H1N1 vaccine.
For children 6 months of age and older, vaccine is available in multidose vials. The vaccine in multidose vials is safe and effective vaccine for children. The standard dose for this preparation for administration to infants 6-35 months old is the same as for the pre-filled syringes, 0.25 mL. For healthy children at least 2 years of age, the nasal spray (live, attenuated influenza vaccine) is also an option. The nasal spray vaccine is produced in single units that do not contain thimerosal.
Sanofi Pasteur has informed the CDC that it will be submitting a field correction to the FDA to request a change for the expiration date of the company's remaining pediatric and adult pre-filled syringes. CDC will share additional information as soon as it is available.
For More Information:
Call CDC’s toll-free information line, 800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) TTY: (888) 232-6348, which is available 24 hours a day, every day.
January 29, 2010
Dear Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity (COCA) Partner,
The CDC is committed to providing information to its partners, so that you can stay informed and communicate accurate information to your constituents. Please remember to send any questions or comments to coca@cdc.gov. We want to ensure that these updates are timely and helpful. To assist in your efforts, please see the following materials and resources:
H1N1 Influenza Updates
A. H1N1 Key Points, VAERS Report and FluView
Attached are the updated CDC key points for seasonal and 2009 H1N1 flu as of January 29, 2010 and the updated Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) summary. The updated FluView 2009-2010 Influenza Season Week 3 ending January 23, 2010 is available at: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/
B. MMWR Article: Outbreaks of 2009 Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) Among Long-Term
MMWR article Outbreaks of 2009 Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) Among Long-Term--Care Facility Residents --- Three States, 2009 is now available. This report summarizes three outbreaks, which involved facilities primarily housing older patients. These outbreaks illustrate that, despite the lower risk for infection with 2009 H1N1 among persons aged ≥65 years compared with seasonal influenza, 2009 H1N1 outbreaks still can occur in LTCFs. The complete article can be viewed at: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5903a3.htm
C. New and Updated Interim Guidance and Links to Resources for Clinicians
A. Earthquake Information for Clinicians
The Information for Clinicians webpage provides clinicians with a list of resources for potential health concerns that patients may present either on the ground or returning from Haiti. Some of the resources included were developed for other types of disasters but have information that can be applied to the Haiti response efforts. These resources are being updated as needed at the following site: http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/
clinicians.asp
B. New and Updated Interim Guidance and Links to Resources for Clinicians
On behalf of the Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity (COCA)
Joint Information Center (JIC) Clinician Communication Team
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Distributed via Health Alert Network
Tuesday, February 2, 2010, 18:45 ET (6:45 PM EST)
CDCHAN-0309-2010-02-02-UPD-N
Sanofi Pasteur Monovalent 2009 (H1N1) Influenza Vaccine in Pre-Filled Syringes — Shortened Shelf Life of Certain Lots
Summary
Sanofi Pasteur has notified CDC and FDA that some lots of monovalent 2009 (H1N1) influenza vaccine in prefilled syringes will have a shorter expiration period than indicated on the label. The lots of Sanofi Pasteur monovalent 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine in prefilled syringes should be used by February 15, 2010, as indicated in the table below regardless of the expiration imprinted on the package. This is to ensure that the vaccine is used while it remains within its potency specification. There are no safety concerns with these lots of 2009 H1N1 vaccine. People who received vaccine from the lots listed below with shortened shelf life do not need to take any action.
Background
As part of its quality assurance program, Sanofi Pasteur performs routine, ongoing stability testing of the vaccine after it has been shipped to providers. Stability testing means measuring the strength of a vaccine over time.
The 50 lots subject to this change in expiration date include approximately 12 million doses. These lots were shipped to providers between November 2009 and January 2010. Although these lots remain potent, they are losing their potency more rapidly than expected, and therefore the shelf life is being shortened. While most of the doses from these lots are believed to have already been administered, there are almost certainly some doses that have not yet been used.
The change in expiration date described here is specific to the 50 lots of Sanofi Pasteur 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine in pre-filled syringes listed below. However, a related recall (See http://www2a.cdc.gov/
HAN/ArchiveSys/ViewMsgV.asp?AlertNum=00306) was conducted recently, which involved lots from Sanofi Pasteur’s 2009 H1N1 vaccine in 0.25 mL and 0.5 mL pre-filled syringes. These actions do not affect Sanofi Pasteur’s 2009 H1N1 vaccine in multi-dose vials.
Sanofi Pasteur will send a notification to providers who received doses from any of the 50 lots of vaccine described below.
Lot Information
These lots should be used by February 15, 2010, as indicated in the table below regardless of the expiration date imprinted on the package.
All pre-filled syringes that have not been used by February 15, 2010 should be discarded in an appropriate manner, or you may return the product for destruction to Sanofi Pasteur Inc., c/o Capital Returns at 6101 N. 64th Street, Milwaukee, WI 53218
Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccine in Pre-Filled Syringes
Expiration Date Change
Product Code (NDC)
Description
Lot Number
Labeled Expiration Date
Re-Assigned Expiration Date
49281-650-25
0.25mL
UT014AA
March 4, 2011
February 15, 2010
syringes in
UT014BA
March 4, 2011
February 15, 2010
10-packs
UT014CA
March 4, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT014DA
March 4, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT014FA
March 27, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT014EA
March 25, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT029DA
April 7, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT029BA
April 6, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT029CA
April 6, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT029EA
April 8, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT030EA
April 10, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT030FA
April 11, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT033CA
April 12, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT033DA
April 12, 2011
February 15, 2010
Product Code (NDC)
Description
Lot Number
Labeled Expiration Date
Re-Assigned Expiration Date
49281-650-50
0.5mL
UP033CA
April 16, 2011
February 15, 2010
syringes in
UP036CA
April 19, 2011
February 15, 2010
10-packs
UP034BB
April 22, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP036EA
May 3, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP037CA
April 30, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP037DA
May 2, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP048CA
May 6, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP040CA
May 4, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP048DA
May 9, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP049FA
May 16, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP049CA
May 11, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP049DA
May 13, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP035BA
April 15, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP059DA
May 16, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP060CA
May 17, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP060DA
May 19, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT047BA
May 11, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP033AB
April 9, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP041BA
April 30, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT041AA
April 29, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT034AA
April 19, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT045BA
May 5, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP061DA
May 21, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP061FA
May 23, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP035AA
April 12, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT048BA
May 12, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT058BA
May 16, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT059AA
May 18, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT058AA
May 14, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT061GA
May 24, 2011
February 15, 2010
UP045EA
June 9, 2011
February 15, 2010
49281-650-90
0.5mL
UT036DA
April 26, 2011
February 15, 2010
syringes in
UT040BA
April 28, 2011
February 15, 2010
25-packs
UT047AA
May 9, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT046BA
May 9, 2011
February 15, 2010
UT046AA
May 4, 2011
February 15, 2010
For More Information:
• CDC’s toll-free information line, 800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) TTY: (888) 232-6348, is available 24 hours a day, every day.
• For other inquiries, please contact Sanofi Pasteur Customer Services: 1-800-VACCINE (1-800-822-2463) or visit www.vaccineshoppe.com
CDC Updates for Clinicians: CDC Training and Educational Opportunities (February - April 2010)
February
30th Annual Pregnancy Meeting and Scientific Forum - Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Date: February 1 - 6, 2010 Location: Chicago, IL
The 2010 Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) Scientific Forum/Special Focus Group will take place in conjunction with the SMFM Annual Meeting. Forums will focus on scientific subject areas within the specialty, academic areas immediately related to maternal-fetal medicine, and the technologies that support practice. https://www.smfm.org/Annual%20Meeting%20Page.cfm
5th International Conference on Ocular Infections Date: February 18 - 21, 2010 Location: Palm Beach, FL
This conference is held every four years and represents the Olympics of ocular infectious diseases. The International Conference on Ocular Infections 2010 Scientific Program spans over 3 days. This conference will have workshops and discussion panels on up-to-date issues on ocular infections. American Academy of Ophthalmology designates this educational activity for a maximum of 10 AMA PRA Category Credits. http://www.ocularinfections.com/
CPP 2010 - Cardiac Problems in Pregnancy Date: February 25 - 28, 2010 Location: Valencia, Spain
The goal of the first International Meeting on Cardiac Problems in Pregnancy (CPP) is to advance the knowledge and expertise of health care professionals around the globe by exchange of information, development of collaborative research, and development of guidelines for the management of various cardiovascular conditions during pregnancy and the post partial period. CME accreditation for the has been applied for with the European Board for Accreditation in Cardiology (EBAC). http://www.cpp2010.com/
March
9th Annual Early Hearing Detection & Intervention Conference Date: March 1- 2, 2010 Location: Chicago, IL
In its 9th year, the Early Hearing Detection & Intervention Conference (EHDI) conference has built a strong reputation for bringing together a wide variety of attendees from state and local programs to the federal level and from academics to families. The conference is sponsored by CDC, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and National Center for Hearing Assessment & Management at Utah State University (NCHAM). http://ehdiconference.org/
Fourth National Emergency Management Summit Date: March 3 - 5, 2010 Location: Washington, DC
A variety of issues will be covered at this conference including the nation's economic crisis, costly and difficult air travel, the mandate for cost efficiency in healthcare, and the explosion of online training in the health sector. This summit offers not only traditional conference attendance, but also, the opportunity to learn about these topics online. http://www.emergencymanagementsummit.com/
National Birth Defects Prevention Network (NBDPN) 13th Annual Meeting 2010 Date: March 7 - 10, 2010 Location: National Harbor, MD
This meeting will be held in conjunction with the Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs (AMCHP) Annual Meeting. Plenary and breakout sessions are scheduled to appeal to a diverse audience and cover birth defects surveillance, research, and prevention issues. http://www.nbdpn.org/current/annualmeeting/index.html
2010 Society for Physician Assistants in Pediatrics Conference Date: March 12 - 14, 2010 Location: Baltimore, MD
The 1st Annual Society for Physician Assistants in Pediatrics (SPAP) Conference is a series of seminars focusing on the continuum of care for infants, children, and adolescents with a variety of common medical problems. The conference schedule is designed to provide lectures and discussion forums on a variety of highly relevant topics ranging from orthopedics, surgical emergencies, cardiac disease, H1N1 update, nutrition, and much more. CME credits will be available at this conference. http://www.spaponline.org/spap_cme.php
2010 Annual Conference of the National Council on Aging and the American Society Date: March 15 - 19, 2010 Location: Chicago, IL
It is the largest gathering of a diverse, multidisciplinary community of professionals from the fields of aging, healthcare, and education. This conference offers a showcase for programs and projects that can be replicated, a forum for policy discussion and advocacy, and a prime source of information on new research findings in aging. The conference also provides attendees with the opportunity to network, gain insight from voices from the front line, and find new grassroots and national partners for advocacy. CEUs are available at this conference. http://www.agingconference.org/AiA10/ceus.cfm
Fifth Decennial International Conference on Healthcare-Associated Infections Date: March 18 - 22, 2010 Location: Atlanta, GA
CDC is proud to co-host the Fifth Decennial International Conference on Healthcare-Associated Infections in Atlanta, Georgia. Be a part of the meeting that will set the agenda for healthcare-associated infection (HAI) prevention for the next decade. http://www.decennial2010.com/
BRFSS 27th Annual Conference Date: March 20 - 24, 2010 Location: San Diego, California
The Division of Behavioral Surveillance at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is hosting the 27th Annual Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Conference. The purpose of this conference is to determine the content of the 2011 BRFSS Survey; update attendees concerning state-of-the art behavioral risk factor monitoring, methodologies, and technological innovations, and provide networking opportunities for participants. http://www.brfss2010conference.com/
Teaching Prevention 2010 - Association for Prevention Teaching and Research (APTR) Date: March 25 - 27, 2010 Location: Washington, DC
This meeting will bring together leaders to address the status of prevention in the healthcare debate and showcase and discuss improved methods of teaching and promoting prevention. Plenary, concurrent, and breakout sessions will include ways to employ government paradigm shifts into improvements in prevention education and such topics as education and practice, issues in graduate public health education, undergraduate public health education, and community based participatory research. Certified in Public Health Continuing Education (CPHCE) and CME credits will be available at this conference. http://www.atpm.org/teachingprevention/index.html
April
2010 Joint SOPHE Conference-Advocate, Communicate & Translate Date: April 7 - 9, 2010 Location: Atlanta, GA
A Conference held in collaboration with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Prevention Research Centers (PRCs). This conference will focus on chronic disease prevention in social and physical environments, Healthy People 2020 objectives, community-based participatory research, partnerships, and policy advocacy. http://www.sophe.org/meetings.cfm
18th Congress on Women's Health Issues Date: April 7 - 10, 2010 Location: Philadelphia, PA
The University of Pennsylvania in partnership with the International Council on Women’s Health Issues (ICOWHI), will convene the 18th Congress on women’s health issues, titled “Cities and Women’s Health: Global Perspectives”. National and international participants will be actively involved in three days of dialogue, planning and networking in response to keynote, and panel presentations. http://www.nursing.upenn.edu/penn-icowhi/
Pages/Registration.aspx
Experimental Biology Meeting Date: April 24 - 28, 2010 Location: Anaheim, CA
Experimental Biology is an annual meeting comprising of nearly 13,000 scientists and exhibitors representing six sponsoring societies and 18 guest societies. General fields of study include anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology, pathology, nutrition, pharmacology, and immunology. This conference is open to all members of the sponsoring and guest societies and nonmembers with interest in research and life sciences. This multidisciplinary, scientific meeting features plenary and award lectures, pre-meeting workshops, oral and posters sessions, on-site career services, and exhibits. http://experimentalbiology.org/content/default.aspx
January 22, 2010
CDC Resources for Clinicians Treating Individuals Returning From Haiti
The recent earthquake in Haiti has resulted in a huge response effort involving our global, domestic, government, and non-government partners. Many organizations and agencies have already deployed staff to assist in the effort and we anticipate many more will be working in Haiti over the coming months. At the same time, the probable repatriation of thousands of U.S. citizens and the potential arrival of thousands of Haitian evacuees will directly impact local communities. Understandably, this means that many health professionals are or will be actively engaged in this response at the local level.
CDC is developing guidance and emergency information for affected communities in Haiti, relief workers responding to the earthquake, clinicians who are treating evacuees, partners who are working in Haiti, and the public. COCA is committed to providing information to providers, so that they can stay informed and meet the needs of their patients. To assist in any efforts, please see the following materials and resources, which target healthcare providers treating evacuees and/or returning relief workers in their local communities. Please feel free to share this information with interested parties or contact us at coca@cdc.gov if you need additional information.
The following is a list of resources for potential infectious diseases that patients arriving from Haiti may present.
Distributed via Health Alert Network
March 11, 2010, 14:32 EST (2:32 PM EST)
CDCHAN-00310-10-03-11-ADV-N
There is a serious concern about mumps disease in the Hasidic (Jewish) community. While most of the current cases recently were in the greater New York area, the timing of Passover means the potential for travel across the country and internationally—increasing the risk of spreading mumps within your community.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state health departments are urging people in Hasidic communities—and those in close contact with these communities—to protect themselves and their children with Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. It is very important that people get vaccinated before travel and gathering for Pesach and other holidays.
MARCH 2010 Notice to Providers Concerning
Potential Cases of Mumps During a Multi-State Outbreak
CDC, in collaboration with public health officials in numerous states in the Northeast, continues to investigate a multi-state mumps outbreak. Who is affected: The Hasidic (Jewish) populations from New York and New Jersey are primarily affected. This outbreak is also occurring among members of the same population in Israel. Why mumps transmission is a concern at this time: The onset of Passover (March 30 through April 5) may offer further opportunities for mumps transmission as people from the Hasidic community travel for this major religious observance.
Recommendations for Providers:
• Healthcare providers with patients in any Hasidic community should ensure that these patients, including both children and adults, are up to date with measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. The second dose of MMR vaccine for children may be administered as early as 28 days following the first dose.
• Healthcare providers may consider offering a second dose of MMR vaccine to adults who have received one dose.
• Healthcare providers who have contact within the Hasidic community should ensure that they themselves and ALL staff are immune to mumps in accordance with ACIP recommendations http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/provisional/downloads/mmr-evidence-immunity-Aug2009-508.pdf or receive two doses of MMR vaccine.
• Persons with suspected mumps should be isolated for 5 days after onset of parotitis and, if they visit a healthcare setting, droplet precautions should be initiated immediately.
• Any suspected mumps case should be reported to the health department in the area where the case-patient resides.
Distributed via Health Alert Network
Monday, March 22, 2010, 15:54 EDT (03:54 PM EDT)
CDCHAN-00311-2010-03-22-ALT-N
Recommendation to Temporarily Suspend Usage of GlaxoSmithKline Rotarix (Rotavirus) Vaccine
Summary: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has learned that DNA from porcine circovirus type 1 (PCV1), a virus not known to cause disease in humans, is present in the Rotarix vaccine. All available evidence indicates that there has been no increased risk to patients who have received this vaccine. PCV1 is not known to cause any disease in animals or humans; therefore, it has not been routinely tested for in vaccine development. Rotarix has been extensively studied, before and after approval, and found to have an excellent safety record (i.e., no unusual adverse events). However, FDA is recommending that healthcare practitioners temporarily suspend usage of the Rotarix vaccine for rotavirus immunization in the United States while the agency learns more about the detection of components of the virus found in the vaccine.
Background
FDA has learned that DNA from porcine circovirus type 1 (PCV1) is present in the Rotarix vaccine. This finding was reported to FDA by GlaxoSmithKline on March 15th, 2010, based on work originally performed by an academic research team using a novel technique to look for viruses. GlaxoSmithKline then conducted additional studies and confirmed that PCV1 DNA is present in the finished Rotarix vaccine, as well as in the cell bank and seed from which the vaccine is derived. This finding suggests that the PCV1 DNA has likely been present since the early stages of the vaccine’s development.
Rotavirus vaccines are given by mouth to young infants to prevent rotavirus disease, which can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration. Each year, rotavirus disease causes more than 500,000 deaths in infants globally, and more than 50,000 hospitalizations and several dozen deaths in the United States. There are two licensed rotavirus vaccines in the United States: RotaTeq (Merck) and Rotarix (GlaxoSmithKline).
Recommendations
While FDA is learning more about the situation, the agency is recommending that clinicians temporarily suspend the use of Rotarix. This recommendation applies to all lots of the Rotarix vaccine. RotaTeq vaccine is available for rotavirus immunization during this period. For children who have received one dose of Rotarix, CDC advises that clinicians complete the series with RotaTeq for the next two doses.
Since RotaTeq was licensed in 2006 and Rotarix in 2008, most children vaccinated in the United States received RotaTeq. The RotaTeq vaccine is made using a different process from the Rotarix vaccine. Preliminary studies by FDA on the RotaTeq vaccine have not shown the presence of PCV1 DNA. FDA is working with Merck to confirm these results.
FDA is obtaining additional information about the presence of PCV1 DNA in Rotarix, including whether intact virus (as opposed to DNA components) is present. FDA is also investigating how the PCV1 DNA came to be present in the vaccine.
Within the next four to six weeks, FDA will convene an advisory committee to review the available data and make recommendations on the licensed rotavirus vaccines. FDA will also seek input on the use of new techniques for identifying viruses in vaccines. The agency anticipates that following the advisory committee meeting, based on expert input and additional review, FDA will make further recommendations on the use of the two licensed rotavirus vaccines in the United States.
The recommendations detailed above are for the United States, where there is less rotavirus disease and an alternative vaccine is available. Other countries may decide to continue vaccinating with Rotarix while more information becomes known. Available evidence suggests that the benefits of continued use of Rotarix in countries where rotavirus disease is common and severe far outweigh any potential risk from the vaccine.
Clinicians are requested to report any suspected adverse events following Rotarix vaccination to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) via phone 800-822-7967 or on-line: http://vaers.hhs.gov.
For More Information:
FDA intends to provide frequent updates to patients, providers, and the general public as its understanding evolves. Additional information is available at: www.fda.gov.
This is an official CDC Health Advisory
Distributed via Health Alert Network
June 1, 2010, 08:15:00 EST (8:15 AM EST)
CDCHAN-000314-2010-06-01-ADV-N
Healthcare Professionals Warned Not To Use Certain Intravenous Metronidazole, Ondansetron, and Ciprofloxacin Due To Potential Contamination
Summary
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is alerting healthcare professionals not to use certain intravenous (IV) bags of metronidazole, ondansetron, and ciprofloxacin because of potential contamination. FDA has received reports of floating matter in IV bags manufactured by Claris Lifesciences Limited, in Ahmedabad, India. Microbiological analysis identified the matter in one of the bags as a Cladosporium mold. Molds of this type can cause infections in susceptible patients, such as immunocompromised individuals. At this time, FDA is not aware of any reports of injuries due to administration of these products. Affected products include any metronidazole, ondansetron, and ciprofloxacin manufactured by Claris Lifesciences Limited and sold under the following labels: Claris, Sagent Pharmaceuticals, Pfizer, West-Ward Pharmaceuticals.
Background
Metronidazole and ciprofloxacin are antibiotics used to treat a variety of infections. Ondansetron is an antiemetic used to treat nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy or surgery. A complaint of white matter in a bag of metronidazole was received, and subsequent microbiological analysis identified the matter as a Cladosporium mold. Molds of this type can cause infections in susceptible patients, such as immunocompromised individuals. Another complaint of white matter in a bag of ondansetron was received and that bag is currently under analysis. Foreign matter should not be present in a sterile injectable product.
Recommendations
While FDA is learning more about the situation, healthcare professionals should NOT use and should immediately remove from their pharmacy inventories any metronidazole, ondansetron, and ciprofloxacin intravenous bags sold under the following labels:
• Claris
• Sagent Pharmaceuticals
• Pfizer
• West–Ward Pharmaceuticals
Only metronidazole, ciprofloxacin, and ondansetron in IV bags sold under the Claris, Sagent, Pfizer, and West-Ward Pharmaceuticals labels are affected. Claris is initiating a recall of all lots of these products. These products were all manufactured on the same production line.
For patients who have received any one of these products, clinicians are advised to stop usage immediately and observe patients for any signs of new infection (e.g., fevers or chills). Clinicians are requested to report any suspected adverse events following use of these products to FDA's MedWatch program at 1-800-332-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. On May 17, 2010, FDA posted an announcement that Sagent Pharmaceuticals, Inc. had announced a voluntary recall of specific lots of metronidozole injection (see http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm212302.htm). Today's HAN Advisory announces a recall initiated by Claris covering all lots of the three affected products (metronidazole, ciprofloxacin, and ondansetron) manufactured by Claris and sold under the labels Claris, Sagent, West-Ward, and Pfizer.
For More Information:
FDA intends to provide new information when it becomes available. Clinicians with additional questions may contact FDA at 1-888-463-6332 or druginfo@fda.hhs.gov
Additional information is available at:www.fda.gov
COCA Conference Call: Promoting Health and Preventing Disease: Childhood and Adult Vaccine Updates and Recommendationsa success! The following resources are now available.
Podcast-COCA Call: CDC Update on Childhood and Adult Vaccines
Listen as Dr. Yabo Beysolow discusses recent Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations, new vaccines and administration schedules, immunization resources, and the promotion of immunizations in provider practices. http://www2c.cdc.gov/podcasts/player.asp?f=2446675
Slides, Audio, and Transcript
Access the recorded audio (mp3 format) from the COCA call, as well as, the presentation slides (pdf format) and a transcript of the audio (pdf format). http://emergency.cdc.gov/coca/confcall_archive.asp
CDC Immunization Update 2010 (Satellite Broadcast and Webcast)
This live broadcast and webcast is CDC’s annual update on the most recent and significant developments in the rapidly changing field of immunization. Anticipated topics include influenza, pneumococcal conjugate, human papillomavirus and meningococcal vaccines. http://www2.cdc.gov/PHTN/immupdate2010/default.asp
Distributed via the HAN Info Service
January 14, 2011, 13:30 PM ET (1:30 PM ET)
HANINFO-00318-01-14-01-N
CDC Guidance on the Use of Influenza Antiviral Agents and Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests During the 2010-2011 Influenza Season Summary
As influenza activity increases in the United States, clinicians are urged to consult CDC guidance on the use of influenza antiviral agents and rapid influenza diagnostic tests this season. Updated recommendations on the use of antiviral medications will be published in an upcoming Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), but an interim version of the recommendations is currently available on CDC’s website at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/antivirals/index.htm. The updated guidance for health care professionals on the use of rapid influenza diagnostic tests is available at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/
professionals/diagnosis/clinician_guidance_ridt.htm. For the most recent summary of influenza activity in the United States, consult the CDC influenza surveillance report FluView at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/fluactivitysurv.htm.
Recommendations Antiviral Agents Guidance:
The recommendations on the use of influenza antiviral agents contain information on treatment and chemoprophylaxis of influenza virus infection, and also provide a summary of the effectiveness and safety of antiviral medications. Highlights include recommendations for the following:
early empiric antiviral treatment of suspected or confirmed influenza among people with severe, complicated, or progressive illness or those hospitalized for influenza;
early empiric antiviral treatment of suspected or confirmed influenza among people at higher risk for influenza complications;
use of either oseltamivir or zanamivir for influenza A and B treatment or chemoprophylaxis, and recommendations not to use rimantadine or amantadine as influenza antiviral medications due to high levels of resistance to these medications among circulating influenza A viruses;
use of antiviral medications among children younger than 1 year of age;
use of local data on influenza virus circulation and influenza testing of respiratory specimens from patients with suspected influenza, when available, to help inform clinicians about influenza circulation; and
consideration of antiviral treatment for any previously healthy, non high-risk symptomatic outpatient with confirmed or suspected influenza, based upon clinical judgment, if treatment can be initiated within 48 hours of illness onset.
Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests Guidance:
Recommendations on the use of rapid influenza diagnostic tests are available to help guide clinical decisions and to determine if outbreaks of respiratory illness in closed settings are due to influenza virus infection. The guidance also provides information for interpreting rapid diagnostic test results. Highlights include recommendations for the following:
use of rapid influenza diagnostic tests when a positive result will change the clinical management of patients or change outbreak control strategies in a population, especially if the setting includes hospitalized patients or persons at high risk for influenza-associated complications;
avoiding the use of negative rapid test results to guide decisions regarding treating patients with influenza antiviral medications due to the suboptimal sensitivity of rapid tests;
evaluation of rapid diagnostic test results in the context of other available clinical and epidemiological information; and
consideration of further influenza laboratory testing in the following circumstances:
when a patient tests negative by rapid test during periods of high influenza activity;
when a patients tests positive by rapid test during periods of low influenza activity; or
when a patient has had recent close exposure to pigs, poultry, or other animals and novel influenza A virus infection is possible.
For other inquiries, please visit www.cdc.gov/flu or call CDC’s toll-free information line, 800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636).
TTY: (888) 232-6348, is available 24 hours a day, every day.
Winter Weather Health and Safety Concerns
Overview
Exposure to cold temperatures, whether indoors or outside, can cause other serious or life-threatening health problems. To keep yourself and your family safe, you should know how to prevent cold-related health problems and what to do if a cold-weather health emergency arises.
Winter weather increases the likelihood of carbon monoxide exposure from indoor generators and inadequately ventilated gas-fueled heaters. Other common cold-related problems are hypothermia, frostbite, and injury. Below are CDC resources that address these issues.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Clinical Education
Clinical education and online course on Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning that provide information on diagnosis, reporting, and treatment of CO poisoning by clinicians and health care providers. http://www2a.cdc.gov/phtn/
COPoisonPrev/default.asp
