(May 19, 2023) – FDA Approves RSV Vaccine for Adults Age 60 and Older
The Food and Drug Administration on May 3 announced its approval of Arexvy, the first respiratory syncytial virus vaccine approved for use in the United States. Arexvy, a GlaxoSmithKline product, is approved for the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV in individuals 60 years of age and older. In June 2023, the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will make recommendations on the appropriate use of the vaccine. The vaccine will be available for older adults before the 2023/24 RSV season, which typically starts ahead of the winter months. Pfizer, Moderna and J & J all have RSV vaccine candidates in late-stage development.
USPSTF Issues Draft Recommendation for Breast Cancer Screening to Begin Starting at Age 40
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force issued a draft recommendation on May 9 urging all women to be screened for breast cancer every other year, starting at age 40. For the current draft recommendation, the USPSTF recommends biennial screening mammography for women ages 40 to 74 years. When final, this recommendation will update the 2016 recommendation on breast cancer screening.
HHS Extends Certain PREP Act Protections Beyond PHE
The Department of Health and Human Services May 11 amended its Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act declaration for COVID-19 to extend liability protections for certain COVID-19 countermeasure activities beyond the May 11 end of the public health emergency. Under the amendment, planned since April, PREP Act liability immunity will apply through 2024 to all COVID-19 medical countermeasure activities provided through a federal agreement; and to pharmacists, pharmacy interns and pharmacy technicians who administer COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccines and COVID-19 tests, regardless of a federal agreement or emergency declaration, among other changes.
HRSA Introduces Updated Maternal Mental Health Hotline
HHS and HRSA celebrated the first anniversary of the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, which provides 24/7, free and confidential emotional support, resources and referrals to pregnant and postpartum people facing mental health challenges.
HRSA now is introducing an updated toll-free number for the hotline: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262). The former number (1-833-9-HELP-4-MOMS or 1-833-943-5746) will remain active for another year. Please share the hotline information with your communities.
CDC Issues Health Update on Potential Risk for New Mpox Cases
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a health update on the potential risk for new mpox (formerly monkeypox) cases. Cases have declined since peaking in August 2022, but the CDC continues to receive reports of cases and ongoing transmission. From late April to early May, 12 confirmed cases and one probable case of mpox were reported in Chicago.
Before You Go ...