Tag: #getvaccinated

Prevention of Respiratory Virus Transmission This Holiday Season

With the holiday season upon us, long term care (LTC) facilities and communities across the country will experience increased resident and family visitation, social engagement, and resident activities. This is an important time for residents to connect with their families and loved ones. However, it is also a challenging time for LTC providers as they strive to keep residents safe from respiratory viruses commonly spread during the winter months.

Here are a few simple steps LTC providers can take to prepare for increased holiday visitation:

1.) ​Communicate Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Practices to Visitors
LTC providers should communicate active infection prevention and control practices to visitors. For example, if the transmission​​ of COVID-19 is high in the community or if the facility/community​ is experiencing an outbreak, they may implement source control masking. Policies like these should be communicated through posters, newsletters, and other forms of communication. Whenever possible, explain the rationale behind these policies to visitors to improve adherence.

2.) Ensure Adequate Resources
LTC providers should ensure access to supplies needed to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses and respond effectively to an outbreak. This includes:

  • Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (ABHS) and source control masks (for use by residents, staff, and visitors)
  • Access to rapid COVID-19 and influenza testing
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gowns and gloves, in case of an outbreak

3.) Monitor and Mask
LTC providers should use the CDC respiratory virus tracking website to monitor respiratory virus transmission in their local area. When transmission levels are high, LTC providers may consider implementing mask guidance for staff, residents, and guests. Note that respiratory viruses are often most contagious just before symptoms appear, underscoring the importance of masking when local transmission rates are elevated.​

The CDC’s Project Firstline has developed two poster options (option 1 and option 2) that facilities can use to promote mask usage within the facility.

4.) Follow CDC Guidance to Monitor and Prevent Spread
LTC providers should actively watch for new cases to identify additional ill residents or health care personnel (HCP) through symptom screening and evaluating potential exposures. For SARS-CoV-2 infections, testing exposed individuals is recommended, even if they are asymptomatic.

If a respiratory infection is identified in a resident or HCP, facilities should refer to CDC guidance for specific infection control practices based on the respiratory virus:

5.) Remind residents and staff that vaccination is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk from respiratory viruses. Ensure that new admissions since your last vaccine clinic are offered vaccinations. All four vaccines—pneumonia, influenza, RSV, and COVID-19—are highly beneficial for residents.

For more information on infection prevention and control practices, visit AHCA/NCAL’s ​GetVaccinated.us​ and HHS’s Risk Less. Do More. campaign pages.​

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New #GetVaccinated Promotional Graphics and Posters Now Available

The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) has released new promotional materials to support its #GetVaccinated campaign for the 2024-2025 respiratory virus season. 

These resources, including downloadable posters and graphics, are designed to encourage residents, staff, and caregivers to stay up to date with their immunizations for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. Posters can be displayed throughout your facility or printed as flyers to share with residents and families. The graphics, located under the Communication and Promotion section of GetVaccinated.us, are also perfect for newsletters, websites, or social media. 
 
The #GetVaccinated campaign, supported by Moderna, equips long term care providers with tools to protect their communities year-round. AHCA/NCAL also collaborates with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Risk Less. Do More. campaign to promote the latest vaccine recommendations. 
 
The campaign also features the public service announcement (PSA) video, “Stronger Together,” which highlights how vaccination helps us safely enjoy life’s special moments. Available in 30-second and 15-second formats, the PSA can be used on closed-circuit television or shared on social media. 
 
Visit GetVaccinated.us to explore these resources and enhance your vaccination efforts today. 

CDC Updates Guidance for COVID and Pneumonia Vaccines

​​The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Mandy Cohen has endorsed two new recommendations from the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) regarding the COVID and pneumonia vaccines. 

NEW COVID Recommendations:  
  • People 65 years and older, as well as those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, should receive a second dose of the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine six months after their first dose.  
  • The updated guidance provides flexibility, allowing additional doses (e.g., three or more) for individuals who are moderately or severely immunocompromised, in consultation with their health care provider (a strategy known as shared clinical decision-making). 
 
The CDC states that data continue to confirm the importance of vaccination in protecting those most at risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes. Receiving the recommended 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine can restore and enhance protection against the virus variants currently causing the majority of infections and hospitalizations in the United States. COVID-19 vaccination also reduces the chance of developing Long COVID, a condition that can occur during or after acute infection and persist for an extended period. 
 
NEW Pneumonia Recommendation:  
  • Lowering the age for pneumococcal vaccination from 65 to 50 years. 
The CDC explains that lowering the age for pneumococcal vaccination allows more adults to protect themselves from pneumococcal disease at the age when the risk of infection significantly increases. Pneumococcal bacteria can cause serious illnesses, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. Older adults are at a heightened risk for pneumococcal disease. 
 
Visit the CDC website for more information. Additional vaccine resources and news can also be found at AHCA/NCAL’s GetVaccinated.us​.
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RSV: Why It’s Different and Why It Matters for Long Term Care

The Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a respiratory virus that impacts long term care residents each year. RSV is more common during the fall and winter months, similar to influenza (flu).
RSV Impact 
Each year, it is estimated that between 60,000 and 160,000 older adults in the United States are hospitalized, and 6,000 to 10,000 die due to RSV infection. Similar to the flu and COVID-19, RSV is more dangerous for older adults due to their age, weakened immune systems, and other underlying health conditions. RSV can lead to lung infections, pneumonia, and worsening of other conditions such as asthma, congestive heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
RSV Vaccine 
In May of 2023, the first vaccine for RSV was introduced in the United States. The CDC recommends was introduced in the United States. The CDC recommends the RSV vaccine if you are aged 75 or older, or if you are aged 60 to 74 and have a risk factor for severe RSV disease, including living in a long term care facility. The RSV vaccine is not currently an annual vaccine, meaning if you received the RSV vaccine last year, you do not need to get it again this year.
Eligible adults can get an RSV vaccine at any time, but the best time to get vaccinated is in late summer and early fall. This timing ensures you’re protected by the time RSV starts to spread in your community and ensures you get maximum protection during the winter months.
Symptoms of RSV 
According to the CDC, people infected with RSV usually show symptoms within 4 to 6 days after getting infected. Symptoms of RSV infection usually include a runny nose, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing. These symptoms usually appear in stages and not all at once.
Diagnosis and Treatment 
Unlike flu or COVID-19, antiviral treatment is not recommended for RSV. This is one of the reasons that getting vaccinated is so important in reducing the severity of an RSV infection.
Since antiviral treatment is not available, many providers do not test patients for RSV. However, molecular and antigen diagnostic tests do exist. The CDC recommends that providers consider testing for RSV when residents with acute respiratory illness test negative for both influenza and COVID-19.
Infection Control Practices 
When residents have any symptoms, facilities should refer to CDC’s Infection Control Basics and apply Transmission Based Precautions.
The bottom line is that RSV poses a threat to long term care residents, and its symptoms are similar to those of COVID-19 and flu. The most important thing providers can do is encourage vaccination among residents for RSV and follow CDC guidance in preventing and managing outbreaks in the facility. The CDC viral respiratory pathogens toolkit is a great resource for handling all three common respiratory viruses.
Visit GetVaccinated.us for additional resources to help prepare for the upcoming respiratory virus season.
HHS has also launched a new campaign to educate the public on the importance of vaccination. The Risk Less, Do More campaign has resources to help providers discuss vaccines and prevention with staff and residents.

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Newly Approved COVID-19 Vaccines: What Long Term Care Providers Need to Know

In recent weeks, the country has experienced a surge in COVID-19 cases, marking the largest wave since January. This trend has been mirrored in long term care facilities, with data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showing a consistent increase in new COVID-19 cases between May and August 2024. Experts indicate that this rise in CO​VID-19 cases is due to the emergence of new variants and waning protection from prior vaccines after six months.

The latest variant, known as FLirT, includes the KP.3, KP.3.1.1, and KP.2 strains. Data from the CDC indicates that the KP.3.1.1 variant accounts for nearly 37% of cases, KP.3 follows with 17%, and KP.2.3 represents 14.4% of cases.Last week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines. These vaccines have been designed to target the KP.2 strain,​ providing protection against the currently circulating variants. While the vaccine may not have a significant impact on the current summer wave, it will be crucial as we head into the fall and winter months. It’s important to note that although the vaccine may not prevent infection entirely, it significantly reduces the risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19, particularly among older adults and those with chronic conditions.

Long term care residents are especially vulnerable to respiratory viruses due to their age and underlying health conditions. Prioritizing LTC residents for fall respiratory vaccines—including flu, RSV, and COVID-19—will help protect them from severe illness or hospitalization due to these viruses.

The new COVID-19 vaccine is currently available for distribution through retail pharmacies, long term care pharmacies, and other suppliers. LTC providers should contact their LTC pharmacies to order the vaccine and schedule clinics.

For more information, providers can refer to our recent blog post focused on preparing for respiratory virus season.

Visit GetVaccinated.us for resources to help prepare for the upcoming respiratory virus season.

CDC Releases Vaccine Recommendations for This Fall/Winter

Even though summer is in full swing, it’s time to start looking towards our fall vaccination efforts. Last week, the Centers for Disease Prevention & Control (CDC) released updated recommendations for COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines.
Updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendation
CDC recommends everyone ages 6 months and older receive an updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine for the 2024-2025 Fall/Winter Respiratory Virus Season. This is regardless of whether or not they have ever previously been vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine. Updated COVID-19 vaccines will be available from Moderna, Novavax, and Pfizer later this year. This recommendation will take effect as soon as the new vaccines are available.
 
Updated 2024-2025 Flu Vaccine Recommendation 
CDC recommends everyone 6 months of age and older, with rare exceptions, receive an updated 2024-2025 flu vaccine also for the 2024-2025 Fall/Winter Respiratory Virus Season. September and October remain the best times for most people to get vaccinated. For adults (especially those 65 years old and older) and pregnant people in the first and second trimester, vaccination in July and August should be avoided unless it won’t be possible to vaccinate in September or October.
Simplified RSV Vaccine Guidance for Seniors   
For this upcoming respiratory virus season, CDC has modified their recommendation for the RSV vaccine for seniors, specifically suggesting that:
  • Everyone ages 75 and older receive the RSV vaccine.
  • People ages 60–74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV, meaning they have certain chronic medical conditions, such as lung or heart disease, or they live in nursing homes, receive the RSV vaccine.
This recommendation is only for adults who did not receive the RSV vaccine last year as the RSV vaccine is not an annual vaccine.
Providers should contact their pharmacies and begin the process of ordering vaccines for the upcoming season. Providers should also check out the resources on the AHCA/NCAL #GetVaccinated website​ for resources on navigating the reimbursement and administrative requirements as well as resources to help improve vaccine uptake.

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Navigate the Ongoing Challenges of COVID-19 with #GetVaccinated Resources

A common misperception that exists is that COVID-19 is no longer a serious virus, and some may even believe that it’s less serious than influenza. While the rates of serious illness, hospitalizations, and death from COVID-19 are significantly lower than during the height of the pandemic in early 2020 and 2021, recent data indicates that COVID-19 remains more serious than influenza.

#GETVACCINATED RESOURCES
Now more than ever, we need all members to build a resilient defense against the ongoing threat of respiratory viruses, especially COVID-19.

Download and share the latest information to encourage vaccinations in AHCA/NCAL’s #GetVaccinated toolkit at getvaccinated.us/.

FEATURED 

  • Reimbursement Guide: Frequently asked questions on vaccine payment options.
  • Template Letters: Tailored for the organization’s Medical Director to residents and staff.
  • Talking Points: To assist with vaccination conversations.

Explore other resources at getvaccinated.us/.

Stay Informed. Stay Protected. New Resources for Long Term Care Providers

With winter and holiday gatherings right around the corner, it’s important to be well-prepared against respiratory viruses.

For the first time, vaccines are available to help protect against severe illness caused by all three of the major fall and winter respiratory viruses—flu, COVID-19, and RSV. People may choose to get flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines at the same visit if they are eligible, making it easier to stay up to date with CDC-recommended vaccines, while others may prefer to get their recommended vaccines at separate visits.

For those people, there is no need to wait a specific amount of time after receiving one vaccine to get the next one. Getting all three vaccines at the same visit can help protect people who are at higher risk of getting seriously sick from flu, COVID-19, or RSV or who may not be able to return to their provider.

Scientific studies during the last three years indicate that it is safe to get both a flu vaccine and a COVID-19 vaccine at the same visit. Additionally, coadministration of flu vaccines and the new RSV vaccines was found to be safe in clinical tri​als. While there are no clinical trial data on getting all three vaccines at the same time, CDC is continuing to monitor the safety of RSV vaccines, as it does for all vaccines. Getting multiple vaccines at the same visit may increase the risk of some side effects from vaccination. When side effects do occur, they are typically mild to moderate, like arm pain, swelling, headache, and fatigue. These side effects are usually short-lived.

Whether individuals choose to get flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines at the same visit or at separate visits, the most important thing is that they get all vaccines recommended to protect themselves against these and other potentially serious illnesses this fall and winter.

Additional Resources Available on #GetVaccinated Website.

  • Explore “Vaccine Information for Residents and Staff,” a hot topic brief for providers that emphasizes the crucial role of providing residents, their families and staff Vaccine Information Sheets (VIS).
  • Discover new insights in “Pneumonia Vaccine Timing for Adults” to help ensure adults stay up to date with pneumococcal vaccinations.

​Access the latest #GetVaccinated resources.

Encourage Action During National Influenza Vaccination Week

National Influenza Vaccination Week, which runs from December 4-8, is the perfect time to get a flu shot. This week highlights the importance of flu vaccines which are crucial in reducing the risk of illness, hospitalization, and even death.

The impact of influenza is substantial, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimating 9 million illnesses, 4 million medical visits, 10,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths during the 2021-2022 season.

New Resources Available to Enhance Vaccination Efforts in Long Term Care

AHCA/NCAL is happy to introduce new resources available on the #GetVaccinated we​bsite, including the latest “Frequently Asked Questions,” “Vaccine Co-Administration in Long Term Care,” and “Offering and Documenting Vaccines in Long Term Care.”

In the ever-evolving landscape of long term care, staying informed and equipped with the latest resources is paramount for providers.

https://www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/Blog/Pages/New-Resources-Available-to-Enhance-Vaccination-Efforts-in-Long-Term-Care-.aspx