Healthcare Leader: New from CDC: COVID-19, Avian Flu, and 2023 Flu Shots

April 11, 2024

Recent CDC Updates

COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance for the Immunocompromised

The CDC has released new guidance emphasizing the importance of an updated COVID-19 vaccine dose for adults with immunocompromising conditions. The report suggests that receiving this updated dose can significantly reduce the risk of COVID-19 hospitalizations. Additionally, individuals with immunocompromising conditions are advised to consider getting additional updated vaccine doses spaced over two months. Access the report here.

New CDC Advisory: Protect Against Avian Influenza Exposure

The CDC has issued a recent Health Advisory in response to a confirmed human infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) virus, which was linked to exposure from infected dairy cattle. This marks the first instance of likely mammal-to-human transmission. To stay informed about the latest developments and recommendations, check out the CDC's new page on HPAI A(H5N1) influenza in mammals.

Vaccine Campaign Support

Your Vaccine Campaign Support Center: Check out IPRO’s Immunization Microsite

Our dedicated immunization microsite is your go-to destination for comprehensive vaccine campaign support. Explore a range of tools and materials, including links to CDC-published immunization schedules and resources on COVID-19, influenza, and pneumococcal diseases. Visit it today for the latest resources.

Decline in COVID-19 Hospitalizations and Deaths

Check Your Community's Stats

Who's Considered Up To Date?

2023-24 Influenza Vaccination Recommendations

Q: Should influenza vaccination be deferred for persons with COVID-19?

A: Yes, vaccination should be deferred for moderately or severely ill persons until recovery from the acute illness. For those mildly ill or asymptomatic, deferral may be considered to avoid confusing symptoms with vaccine reactions. Once fully recovered, it is important to fully immunize to prevent further illness.

Q: What is the ideal time period for influenza vaccination?

A: For most people needing only one dose, influenza vaccination should ideally be offered during September or October. However, it can continue throughout the influenza season as long as viruses are circulating.

See 2023-24 ACIP flu vaccine recommendations for more info.

Events & Education

Office Hours for Infection Preventionists

Join our IP3 group for a lively discussion with other infection preventionists to share new infection prevention ideas and discover new strategies.

This group is hosted by Melanie Ronda, MSN, RN, and Mary Ellen Casey, MSN, RN every Thursday at 11 am ET.

Stay informed about vaccine updates:

Visit our WAVE page to access up-to-date resources to support your efforts

Keep the learning going:

Visit our cal enda r to register for upcoming events
Access on-demand training with IPRO Learn!

For questions or technical assistance:

Visit our website
Email us
Call us toll-free at 888-502-0566

Visit Our Resource Library

Join Our Network

www.qi.ipro.org

The IPRO QIN-QIO works to ensure high-quality, safe health care in New England, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Delaware, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.

This material was prepared by the IPRO QIN-QIO, a Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organization, under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Views expressed in this document do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of CMS or HHS, and any reference to a specific product or entity herein does not constitute endorsement of that product or entity by CMS or HHS. 12SOW-IPRO-QIN-T1-AA-21-435