IZ Express
Our weekly email newsletter, IZ Express, has been in production since 1997 and currently has more than 55,000 subscribers. Each week, it provides up-to-date information about:
  • New CDC vaccine recommendations
  • FDA vaccine approvals
  • Newly released Vaccine Information Statements
  • New immunization resources
  • Current events
  • Notable journal articles
  • Ask the Experts special editions
  • And more …
Results (1755)

Issue 1625: March 30, 2022

Top Stories
Immunize.org updates its “Ask the Experts: Pneumococcal Vaccines” web page with important new 2022 recommendations for adults  
National Infant Immunization Week is April 24–30; prepare using CDC’s 2022 digital media toolkit
Immunize.org updates its parental handouts summarizing vaccinations for infants and children (age 0–10) and for preteens and teens  
Influenza activity and hospitalizations rise further; vaccinate during community outbreaks
Spotlight! Immunize.org's Handouts for Patients and Staff web page provides free access to hundreds of vaccination-related handouts and fact sheets.
Journalists interview Immunize.org experts
Vaccines in the news
Featured Resources
CDC’s 14th edition of the "Pink Book," Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, now available in hard copy
Montgomery County Immunization Coalition develops social media toolkit in support of National Minority Health Month
CHOP’s Vaccine Education Center releases new HPV-related infographic for the public
CHOP Vaccine Education Center archives March 16 webinar titled “Approving COVID-19 Vaccines for Children: When Do We Know Enough?” featuring Paul Offit, MD; CE available
Too many teens are behind on vaccines! Adolescent Immunization Action Week is April 4–8; use Unity Consortium’s partner toolkit in your outreach.
Order today! Laminated versions of CDC’s 2022 immunization schedules are available to ship.
65+ Flu Defense website offers resources for healthcare professionals serving older adults
Recognize colleagues and students with Immunize.org's elegantly designed "Vaccines Save Lives" black enamel pins
Notable Publications
MMWR Recap: Articles regarding COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness against hospitalization and death
Global News
CDC identifies international destinations at high risk for poliomyelitis
Upcoming Events
Virtual: FDA’s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) will meet on April 6 to discuss COVID-19 booster doses and process for COVID-19 vaccine strain selection
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Issue 1624: March 29, 2022

Ask the Experts: Immunize.org Answers Questions about Adult Pneumococcal Vaccination
As an additional service to IZ Express readers, we periodically publish special editions such as this one, providing you with new and updated Ask the Experts questions and answers from Immunize.org’s experts. This issue includes 15 Q&As about pneumococcal vaccination of adults based on the new ACIP recommendations published January 28, 2022.

To find the full set of Immunize.org’s Ask the Experts pneumococcal vaccination Q&As, visit www.immunize.org/askexperts/experts_pneumococcal_vaccines.asp.
 
You can find all of these questions and answers, plus more than a thousand others about vaccines and vaccine administration, on our "Ask the Experts" gateway page at www.immunize.org/askexperts.
 
Immunize.org's team of experts includes Kelly L. Moore, MD, MPH (team lead), Carolyn B. Bridges, MD, FACP, and Iyabode Beysolow, MD, MPH.
Adult Pneumococcal Vaccination Questions
Q. What are the major changes in the ACIP recommendations for pneumococcal vaccination of adults published by CDC on January 28, 2022?
Q. What are the categories of medical conditions and other risk factors among adults for which pneumococcal vaccination is recommended? And what is the recommendation?
Q. My patient just turned 65 and has never had a pneumococcal vaccine. What are my options now?
Q. My patient just turned 65 and had a dose of PPSV23 at age 50 due to alcoholism. What is due now?
Q. My patient is 35 and is scheduled for a splenectomy. He has never had a pneumococcal vaccine. What do I do?
Q. My patient is currently age 57 and has a history of splenectomy 8 years ago. He has received PCV13 and one dose of PPSV23 in the past. What does he need now?
Q. My patient received PCV13 a year ago and is now due for PPSV23, but my clinic only has PCV20; we do not have PPSV23 in stock. What do I do?
Q. My patient is now 70 years old and had PCV13 followed by PPSV23 after he turned 65. What is due now?
Q. My patient is 80 and had a dose of PPSV23 at age 65. What is due now?
Q. Is there any role for PCV13 in adults?
Q. Is PPSV23 alone currently routinely recommended for any adults?
Q. How often should diabetic patients receive PPSV23?
Q. Now that we have PCV20 and PCV15, is any adult still recommended to receive multiple doses of PPSV23?
Q. Can we administer PCV15 and PPSV23 vaccines to a person 65 years of age or older at the same visit? If not, what is the recommended interval between doses?
Q. My patient has had laboratory-confirmed pneumococcal pneumonia. Does this patient still need to be vaccinated against pneumococcal disease?
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Issue 1623: March 24, 2022

Shop Immunize.org
Order Immunize.org’s redesigned child, adult, and lifetime immunization record cards—wallet-sized, designed to last!
Order today! Laminated versions of CDC’s 2022 immunization schedules are ready to ship! 
Great for workplace recognitions! Immunize.org’s elegantly designed "Vaccines Save Lives" black enamel pins show how much you value vaccination
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Issue 1622: March 23, 2022

Top Stories
“The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices Recommendation for Use of Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine in Persons Aged ≥18 Years and Considerations for Extended Intervals for Administration of Primary Series Doses of mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines—United States, February 2022” published in MMWR
“Effectiveness of mRNA Vaccination in Preventing COVID-19–Associated Invasive Mechanical Ventilation and Death—United States, March 2021–January 2022” published as an MMWR Early Release
CDC revises two tables in its General Best Practice Guidelines for Immunization
Order today! Laminated versions of CDC’s 2022 immunization schedules are available to ship.
Spotlight: Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on communications
AAP posts analysis of COVID-19 vaccination trends in U.S. children and adolescents
Influenza activity is low overall, but continues to increase in some parts of the country. Keep offering to vaccinate.
Immunize.org’s Hepatitis B Birth Dose Honor Roll recognizes 546 institutions, including one new honoree. Six previously honored institutions qualify for additional years' honors.
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
Reminder: Immunize.org updates two of its popular standing order templates with new CDC recommendations: pneumococcal vaccination of adults and zoster (shingles) vaccination
Reminder: "Ask the Experts: Zoster" web page updated with new clinical considerations for vaccination of immunocompromised adults age 19 and older
Vaccine Information Statements
Reminder: Immunize.org posts new Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) in nine languages for pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and recombinant zoster (shingles) vaccine
Featured Resources
65+ Flu Defense website offers resources for healthcare professionals serving older adults
Notable Publications
"Trends in Human Papillomavirus–Associated Cancers, Demographic Characteristics, and Vaccinations in the U.S., 2001–2017" published in JAMA Network
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Nevada Immunization Learning Exchange offers webinar, “Overview for Parents and Caregivers: The COVID-19 Vaccine for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs including Children Living with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities,” on March 29
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Issue 1621: March 16, 2022

Top Stories
Immunize.org updates two of its popular standing order templates with new CDC recommendations: pneumococcal vaccination of adults and zoster (shingles) vaccination
"Ask the Experts: Zoster" web page updated with new clinical considerations for vaccination of immunocompromised adults age 19 and older
Immunize.org posts new Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) in eight languages for pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) and recombinant zoster vaccine
Order today! Laminated versions of CDC’s 2022 immunization schedules will begin to ship this week.
“Effectiveness of 2-Dose BNT162b2 (Pfizer BioNTech) mRNA Vaccine in Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Infection among Children Aged 5–11 Years and Adolescents Aged 12–15 Years—PROTECT Cohort, July 2021–February 2022” published in MMWR
CDC updates PneumoRecs VaxAdvisor mobile app for vaccine providers
Unity Consortium launches Adolescent Immunization Action Week, April 4–8, with release of partner toolkit
Influenza season is not done yet; activity low but increased slightly in most of the country. Keep offering to vaccinate.
HHS seeks stakeholder comments on its draft Vaccines Federal Implementation Plan 2021–2025; deadline March 29
Spotlight! Immunize.org's "Clinic Tools” main page is a one-stop source of practical information for vaccination providers
Journalists interview Immunize.org experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
New! Keep up to date using Immunize.org’s new “Checklist of Current Versions of U.S. COVID-19 Vaccination Guidance and Clinic Support Tools” and updated COVID-19 main page.
"Ask the Experts: COVID-19" web page updated with newest CDC clinical considerations, including expanded dose intervals for mRNA vaccines
Visit Immunize.org's “Vaccines: COVID-19” main page to locate the latest information on COVID-19 vaccines
Featured Resources
65+ Flu Defense website offers resources for healthcare professionals serving older adults
Use Immunize.org's Vaccinating Adults: A Step-by-Step Guide—free to download by chapter or in its entirety.
Notable Publications
“Interim Estimates of 2021–22 Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness—United States, February 2022” published in MMWR
“COVID-19 Vaccine Provider Access and Vaccination Coverage among Children Aged 5–11 Years—United States, November 2021–January 2022” published in MMWR
MMWR Recap: Articles regarding COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness and safety monitoring
Global News
WHO confirms circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus in Israel
Upcoming Events
Virtual: NFID hosts "Updates from Recent Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) Meetings" webinar on March 17
Virtual and In Person: Registration open for "North Dakota Immunization Conference" on
June 21–22; CE available
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Issue 1620: March 9, 2022

Top Stories
New! Keep up to date using Immunize.org’s new “Checklist of Current Versions of U.S. COVID-19 Vaccination Guidance and Clinic Support Tools” and updated COVID-19 main page.
Immunize.org "Ask the Experts: COVID-19" web page updated with newest CDC clinical considerations, including expanded dose intervals for mRNA vaccines
Preorder today! Laminated versions of CDC’s 2022 immunization schedules ship in mid-March.
March is Women’s History Month; Immunize.org celebrates the many contributions of women in vaccinology
Influenza activity remains sporadic, even increasing in some areas; keep vaccinating if it is in your community
Spotlight: Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on the history of vaccines
Journalists interview Immunize.org experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
Recap: These updated Immunize.org educational materials and web pages for clinicians were released during January and February
Vaccine Information Statements
Recap: These new VISs and VIS translations were released during January and February
Featured Resources
65+ Flu Defense website offers resources for healthcare professionals serving older adults
Notable Publications
“Safety Monitoring of COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Doses among Persons Aged 12–17 Years—United States, December 9, 2021–February 20, 2022” published as an MMWR Early Release
“Effectiveness of COVID-19 Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 mRNA Vaccination in Preventing COVID-19–Associated Emergency Department and Urgent Care Encounters and Hospitalizations among Nonimmunocompromised Children and Adolescents Aged 5–17 Years—VISION Network, 10 States, April 2021–January 2022” published as an MMWR Early Release
“Disparities in COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage between Urban and Rural Counties—United States, December 14, 2020–January 31, 2022” published in MMWR
Global News
“Readiness for Use of Type 2 Novel Oral Poliovirus Vaccine in Response to a Type 2 Circulating Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus Outbreak—Tajikistan, 2020–2021” published in MMWR
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Hepatitis Appropriations Partnership hosts first session of "2022 Viral Hepatitis Policy and Advocacy Summit" on March 17
Virtual: GSK hosts “Vaccine Virtual Days 2022” event on March 30 and 31
Virtual: Registration open for “27th Annual Massachusetts Adult Immunization Conference” on April 5; CE available
Virtual: NFID hosts "2022 Online Annual Conference on Vaccinology Research" on April 11–12; fee to attend, CME available
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Issue 1619: March 3, 2022

Preorder today! Laminated versions of CDC’s 2022 immunization schedules will ship in mid-March!
Great for workplace recognitions! Immunize.org’s elegantly designed "Vaccines Save Lives" black enamel pins show how much you value vaccination
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Issue 1618: March 2, 2022

Top Stories
Immunize.org summarizes ACIP’s February 23­–24 meeting on tick-borne encephalitis, cholera, and other vaccines
CDC updates COVID-19 vaccine schedule, adding considerations for 8-week interval between first and second doses of a primary mRNA vaccination series
March 4 is International HPV Awareness Day; spread the word that HPV vaccine can reduce the risk of certain cancers
“Use of Ebola Vaccine: Expansion of Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices to Include Two Additional Populations—United States, 2021” published in MMWR
CDC updates its “General Best Practice Guidelines for Immunization” for zoster vaccine and altered immunocompetence
2022 U.S. recommended immunization schedules for children and adolescents and for adults released along with MMWR articles detailing changes
In some areas influenza remains active; keep vaccinating if it is in your area
IZ Express keeps readers up to date on what’s new in vaccines each week; invite your colleagues to subscribe!
Spotlight: Check out the Immunize.org resources to help with your vaccine advocacy
Vaccines in the news
Featured Resources
AAP releases pediatric COVID-19 vaccine campaign toolkit
Hepatitis B Foundation and Hep B United create new patient fact sheet on co-administration of COVID-19 and hepatitis A, hepatitis B, or influenza vaccines
Voices for Vaccines releases podcast with Tara Smith, PhD, titled “Your Vaccine Refusing Family”
CHOP’s Vaccine Education Center adds new videos in its series featuring Paul Offit, MD, answering key questions
65+ Flu Defense website offers resources for healthcare professionals serving older adults
Explore the updated www.Give2MenACWY.org website to increase coverage for the MenACWY booster and other adolescent vaccinations
Notable Publications
CDC publishes “COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage, Behaviors, and Intentions among Adults with Previous Diagnosis, United States” in Emerging Infectious Diseases 
Upcoming Events
Today! Virtual: CDC hosts live, 1-hour webinar followed by live chat, “Updates on the 2022 Child/Adolescent and Adult Immunization Schedules,” on March 2
Virtual: CHOP Vaccine Education Center’s 1-hour webinar titled “Approving COVID-19 Vaccines for Children: When Do We Know Enough?” on March 16 features Paul Offit, MD; CE available

Issue 1617: February 23, 2022

Top Stories
2022 U.S. recommended immunization schedule for children and teens released along with MMWR article detailing changes
2022 U.S. recommended immunization schedule for adults released along with MMWR article detailing changes
Immunize.org launches new “Ask the Experts: Dengue” section
“Effectiveness of Maternal Vaccination with mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine during Pregnancy against COVID-19–Associated Hospitalization in Infants Aged <6 Months—17 States, July 2021–January 2022” published in MMWR
ACOG releases two videos encouraging COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy
Sporadic flu activity continues across the country; vaccinate as long as influenza is a threat in your community
Immunize.org’s Hepatitis B Birth Dose Honor Roll recognizes 545 institutions. Five previously honored institutions qualify for additional years' honors.
Spotlight: Immunize.org’s "Handouts" main page provides free access to hundreds of vaccination-related handouts and fact sheets
Vaccines in the news
Featured Resources
65+ Flu Defense website offers resources for healthcare professionals serving older adults
FREE! Immunize.org offers COVID-19 and flu buttons and stickers. Place your order now!
Immunize.org’s elegantly designed “Vaccines Save Lives” black enamel pins make wonderful gifts or workplace recognitions
Notable Publications
“Outbreak of COVID-19 among a Highly Vaccinated Population aboard a U.S. Navy Ship after a Port Visit—Reykjavik, Iceland, July 2021” published in MMWR
"mRNA Vaccine-Induced Antibodies More Effective than Natural Immunity in Neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 and Its High Affinity Variants" published in Scientific Reports
MMWR Recap: Articles regarding COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness and safety monitoring
Upcoming Events
Today! Wednesday–Thursday, February 23–24: ACIP meeting on tick-borne encephalitis, cholera, influenza, MMR, and pneumococcal vaccines

Issue 1616: February 16, 2022

Top Stories
CDC updates clinical considerations for COVID-19 vaccines, including guidance on booster-dose intervals for immunocompromised people
Sporadic flu activity continues across the country; vaccinate as long as influenza is a threat in your community
Spotlight: Check out Immunize.org’s companion websites
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
Immunize.org's “Vaccines: COVID-19” main page fully updated with educational materials and information on booster doses and childhood vaccination 
Vaccine Information Statements
CDC issues new pneumococcal conjugate Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) that covers PCV13, PCV15, and PCV20, and issues new recombinant zoster VIS that includes immunocompromised adults
Featured Resources
Johns Hopkins launches free virtual course to train “ambassadors” to talk with parents about COVID-19 vaccines for children
University of Washington releases toolkit One Vax, Two Lives with multi-language communication materials and FAQs about COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy
Meningitis B Action Project launches Meningitis B Student Hub, an online curriculum for college peer health educators and students
65+ Flu Defense website offers resources for healthcare professionals serving older adults
FREE! Immunize.org offers COVID-19 and flu buttons and stickers. Place your order now!
Notable Publications
“Waning 2-Dose and 3-Dose Effectiveness of mRNA Vaccines against COVID-19–Associated Emergency Department and Urgent Care Encounters and Hospitalizations among Adults during Periods of Delta and Omicron Variant Predominance—VISION Network, 10 States, August 2021–January 2022” published as an MMWR Early Release
“Safety Monitoring of COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Doses among Adults—United States, September 22, 2021–February 6, 2022” published as an MMWR Early Release
“Durability of Anti-spike Antibodies in Infants after Maternal COVID-19 Vaccination or Natural Infection” published in JAMA
“Axillary Adenopathy after COVID-19 Vaccine: No Reason to Delay Screening Mammogram” published in Radiology
Global News
“Progress toward Rubella and Congenital Rubella Syndrome Control and Elimination—Worldwide, 2012–2020” published in MMWR
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Families Fighting Flu hosts webinar “The Important Fight against Flu: Prevention, Rapid Testing, and Timely Antiviral Use” on February 17
Watch February 23–24 ACIP meeting on tick-borne encephalitis, cholera, influenza, MMR, and pneumococcal vaccines

Issue 1615: February 9, 2022

Top Stories
Immunize.org summarizes ACIP’s February 4 meeting on full licensure of primary series of Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine (Spikevax)
CDC issues new pneumococcal conjugate Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) that covers PCV13, PCV15, and PCV20, and issues revised recombinant zoster VIS that covers immunocompromised patients
Immunize.org updates "You Must Provide Patients with Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) – It’s Federal Law!" and "Dates of Current Vaccine Information Statements (VISs)" to reflect new VIS version dates
CDC issues updates to its "General Best Practice Guidelines for Immunization" for dengue vaccine, influenza vaccine allergies, and storage temperature of MMR vaccine
February is Black History Month; Immunize.org celebrates the contribution of Black Americans in vaccinology
Influenza activity has declined, but continues; encourage vaccination as long as influenza is a threat in your community
Spotlight: Expedite vaccination by using Immunize.org's screening checklists  
Journalists interview Immunize.org experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
Reminder! Immunize.org introduces new, print-ready patient handout "Not Sure If You Can Get an Influenza Vaccine?"
Featured Resources
Immunize Kansas Coalition offers new interactive online education for vaccination during pregnancy
Newly updated “65+ Flu Defense” website offers resources for healthcare professionals serving older adults
FREE! Immunize.org offers COVID-19 and flu buttons and stickers. Free shipping! Place your order now!
“Mass-Vaccination-Resources.org” can help you excel at mass vaccination activities
Order Immunize.org’s child, adult, and lifetime immunization record cards—wallet-sized, designed to last! 
Notable Publications
“SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Hospitalization among Adults Aged ≥18 Years, by Vaccination Status, before and during SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529 (Omicron) Variant Predominance—Los Angeles County, California, November 7, 2021–January 8, 2022” published in MMWR
“COVID-19 Vaccination among Persons Living with Diagnosed HIV Infection—New York, October 2021” published in MMWR
“COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage and Vaccine Confidence by Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity—United States, August 29–October 30, 2021” published in MMWR
“Indirect Protection of Children from SARS-CoV-2 Infection through Parental Vaccination” published in Science
“Vaccination with BNT162b2 Reduces Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 to Household Contacts in Israel” published in Science
Upcoming Events
Watch February 23–24 ACIP meeting on tick-borne encephalitis, cholera, influenza, MMR, and pneumococcal vaccines
Virtual: PA-AAP Medical Home Program hosts 3-part webinar series on provider communications with adolescents
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Issue 1614: February 2, 2022

Top Stories
“Use of 15-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine and 20-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine among U.S. Adults: Updated Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, 2022” published in MMWR
Immunize.org introduces new, print-ready patient handout "Not Sure If You Can Get an Influenza Vaccine?"
Are you using the most current COVID-19 vaccination schedules? Check these tables to be sure.
“Effectiveness of a Third Dose of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna Vaccines in Preventing COVID-19 Hospitalization among Immunocompetent and Immunocompromised Adults—United States, August–December 2021” published in MMWR
Influenza activity expected to continue for several more weeks; keep vaccinating
February is National Cancer Prevention Month; arm your patients with HPV and hepatitis B vaccinations in the fight to prevent cancer
IZ Express keeps readers up to date on what’s new in vaccines each week; invite your colleagues to subscribe!
Spotlight: Check out staff training and in-service resources provided by Immunize.org
Journalists interview Immunize.org experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
Recap: These updated Immunize.org educational materials and web pages for clinicians were released during December and January
Vaccine Information Statements
Recap: These new VISs and VIS translations were released during December and January
Featured Resources
Asian Liver Center launches new “Hep B Moms” website with resources to prevent mother-to-child hepatitis B transmission
National Association of School Nurses journal publishes supplement with five articles on school-located vaccination clinics
CHOP’s Vaccine Education Center presents new video series featuring Paul Offit, MD, answering common questions related to vaccines
CHOP's Vaccine Education Center revises its COVID-19 Vaccines Q&A handout for the public
Voices for Vaccines releases podcast with Patsy Stinchfield, NP, answering parents' questions on kids and COVID-19 vaccines 
Newly updated “65+ Flu Defense” website offers resources for healthcare professionals serving older adults
FREE! Immunize.org offers "Me Vacuné Contra el COVID-19” and “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” buttons and stickers. Free shipping! Available in English and Spanish.
FREE! Order Immunize.org’s popular red "Vacuna Contra LA GRIPE" buttons and stickers. Free shipping! Available in Spanish.
Explore the updated www.Give2MenACWY.org website to increase coverage for the MenACWY booster and other adolescent vaccinations
Notable Publications
“A Prospective Cohort Study of COVID-19 Vaccination, SARS-CoV-2 Infection, and Fertility” published in American Journal of Epidemiology
"Homologous and Heterologous COVID-19 Booster Vaccinations" published in NEJM
MMWR Recap: Articles regarding COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness against death and hospitalization
Upcoming Events
February 10–11: National Vaccine Advisory Committee meeting; watch virtually

Issue 1613: January 26, 2022

Top Stories
“Use of Recombinant Zoster Vaccine in Immunocompromised Adults Aged ≥19 Years: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, 2022” published in MMWR
Immunize.org updates its popular “Ask the Experts” web page on COVID-19 vaccines with CDC guidelines through January 17; “Ask the Experts” HPV page also updated
“Use of the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 Vaccine: Updated Interim Recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, December 2021” published in MMWR
“COVID-19 Incidence and Death Rates among Unvaccinated and Fully Vaccinated Adults with and without Booster Doses during Periods of Delta and Omicron Variant Emergence—25 U.S. Jurisdictions, April 4–December 25, 2021” published as an MMWR Early Release 
“Effectiveness of a Third Dose of mRNA Vaccines against COVID-19–Associated Emergency Department and Urgent Care Encounters and Hospitalizations among Adults during Periods of Delta and Omicron Variant Predominance—VISION Network, 10 States, August 2021–January 2022” published as an MMWR Early Release
“COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations by COVID-19 Vaccination Status and Previous COVID-19 Diagnosis—California and New York, May–November 2021” published as an MMWR Early Release
Influenza activity expected to continue for several weeks; keep vaccinating!
Spotlight! Immunize.org’s “Clinic Tools: Administering Vaccines” main page provides tools from authoritative sources
Journalists interview Immunize.org experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
Immunize.org updates “Using Standing Orders for Administering Vaccines: What You Should Know”
Featured Resources
Newly updated "65+ Flu Defense" website offers resources for healthcare professionals serving older adults
FREE! Immunize.org offers “Me Vacuné Contra el COVID-19” and “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” buttons and stickers. Free shipping!
FREE! Order Immunize.org’s popular red "Vacuna Contra LA GRIPE" buttons and stickers. Free shipping! Available in Spanish only.
Boost yourself, then encourage your friends by adding Immunize.org’s “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” Facebook profile photo frame 
Immunize.org’s elegantly designed “Vaccines Save Lives” black enamel pins make wonderful gifts or workplace recognitions
Notable Publications
“Frequency of Adverse Events in the Placebo Arms of COVID-19 Vaccine Trials: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis” published in JAMA Network
“Influenza Vaccine Uptake and Missed Opportunities among the Medicare-Covered Population with High-Risk Conditions during the 2018 to 2019 Influenza Season” published in Annals of Internal Medicine
Global News
“Progress toward Poliomyelitis Eradication—Afghanistan, January 2020–November 2021” published in MMWR
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Today! APHA offers webinar “The Third Year of COVID-19: Is This the New Normal?” CE available.

Issue 1612: January 19, 2022

Top Stories
Immunize.org summarizes ACIP’s January 12 meeting on influenza, pneumococcal, hepatitis B, respiratory syncytial virus, cholera, and tick-borne encephalitis vaccines
Newly updated “65+ Flu Defense” website offers resources for healthcare professionals serving older adults
CDC study, published in Clinical Infectious Diseases, shows influenza vaccination prevents severe flu illness in U.S. children; use CDC's resources designed for parents
Influenza activity and hospitalizations continue to increase; keep vaccinating
Ice, floods, tornadoes, disasters: 'Tis the season to exercise your emergency plan
Immunize.org’s “Vaccines: COVID-19” main page fully updated with educational materials and information on booster doses and childhood vaccination
Spotlight: Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on vaccination during pregnancy
The Immunization Action Coalition (IAC) is now Immunize.org
Journalists interview Immunize.org experts
Vaccines in the news
Featured Resources
NFID posts new resources for social media, including Flu is Not a Game and humorous infectious-disease images to engage your audience
Organizing a new vaccination program? Use Immunize.org’s Vaccinating Adults: A Step-by-Step Guide—free to download by chapter or in its entirety.
FREE! Immunize.org offers "Me Vacuné Contra el COVID-19” and “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” buttons and stickers. Free shipping!
FREE! Order Immunize.org’s popular red "Vacuna Contra LA GRIPE " buttons and stickers. Free shipping! Available in Spanish only.
Notable Publications
“High-Grade Vulvar, Vaginal, and Anal Precancers among U.S. Adolescents and Young Adults after Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Introduction” published in American Journal of Preventive Medicine
“Estimating the Early Impact of the U.S. COVID-19 Vaccination Programme on COVID-19 Cases, Emergency Department Visits, Hospital Admissions, and Deaths among Adults Aged 65 Years and Older: An Ecological Analysis of National Surveillance Data” published in Lancet
"Association between Menstrual Cycle Length and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Vaccination" published in Obstetrics & Gynecology
MMWR Recap: “Effectiveness of BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) mRNA Vaccination against Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children among Persons Aged 12–18 Years—United States, July–December 2021”
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Today! NFID offers webinar “COVID-19: Myths and Facts”; CME available
Virtual: CDC Foundation's Community COVID Coalition and Vaccine Equity Cooperative offer webinar “COVID-19 and Social Media: Best Practices to Reach Your Communities” on January 20

Issue 1611: January 12, 2022

IZ Express Issue 1,611
January 12, 2022
Top Stories
IZ Express welcomes 2022 with a new name and look; invite your colleagues to subscribe!
Immunize.org summarizes the January 5 ACIP meeting, including updated CDC recommendations for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine affecting children age 5 through 17 years; ACIP meets again today to discuss other vaccines
Influenza activity and hospitalizations continue to increase; it's not too late to vaccinate
Immunize.org updates its "Ask the Experts: COVID-19" and "Ask the Experts: Hepatitis A" web pages 
Immunize.org posts two Spanish translations of screening checklists for influenza vaccine 
January is Cervical Health Awareness Month; promote the importance of early detection and HPV vaccination
Immunize.org’s Hepatitis B Birth Dose Honor Roll recognizes 545 institutions, including one new honoree. Two previously honored institutions qualify for an additional year of honors.
Spotlight! “Ask the Experts” answers more than a thousand questions on vaccines and vaccinations
Journalists interview Immunize.org experts
Vaccines in the news
The Immunization Action Coalition (IAC) is now Immunize.org
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
Immunize.org updates its "Vaccine Timeline" main page 
Recap: These updated Immunize.org educational materials for clinicians were released during November and December
Vaccine Information Statements
New VIS translation: Immunize.org posts Spanish translation of Dengue Vaccine Information Statement
New VIS translations: Immunize.org posts 6 Karen translations of August 6 Vaccine Information Statements 
Recap: These new VISs and VIS translations were released during November and December
Featured Resources
CDC launches new interactive COVID-19 vaccine training module to give healthcare personnel effective communication tools
CDC Train offers free vaccine training designed for entry-level medical assistants
FREE! Immunize.org offers "Me Vacuné Contra el COVID-19” and “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” buttons and stickers. Free shipping! Available in English and Spanish.
FREE! Order Immunize.org’s popular red "Vacuna Contra LA GRIPE " buttons and stickers. Free shipping! Available in Spanish only.
Explore the updated www.Give2MenACWY.org website to increase coverage for the MenACWY booster and other adolescent vaccinations
“Mass-Vaccination-Resources.org” can help you excel at mass vaccination activities
Notable Publications
“Characteristics and Outcomes of Hospitalized Pregnant Women with Influenza, 2010 to 2019” published in Annals of Internal Medicine
“COVID-19 Vaccine Safety in Children Aged 5–11 Years—United States, November 3–December 19, 2021” published in MMWR
“Interim Estimate of Vaccine Effectiveness of BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) Vaccine in Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Infection among Adolescents Aged 12–17 Years—Arizona, July–December 2021” published in MMWR
“Risk Factors for Severe COVID-19 Outcomes among Persons Aged ≥18 Years Who Completed a Primary COVID-19 Vaccination Series—465 Health Care Facilities, United States, December 2020–October 2021” published in MMWR
Upcoming Events
Watch today (January 12 at 10:00 a.m. [ET]): ACIP meeting on cholera, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumococcal, respiratory syncytial virus, and tick-borne encephalitis vaccines
Virtual: Today! Nevada Immunization Learning Exchange offers webinar “An Overview for Parents and Caregivers Considering the COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 5–11”

Issue 1610: December 22, 2021

Top Stories
Happy holidays! IAC will begin 2022 with a new name and new logo. On January 12, IAC Express returns as IZ Express.
IAC summarizes December 16 ACIP meeting recommending preference for mRNA vaccines over Janssen vaccine to prevent COVID-19
“Dengue Vaccine: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2021” published in MMWR
CDC issues first Dengue Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) and IAC updates two handouts with current dengue vaccine information
Flu activity in the United States continues to increase; get vaccinated as a safeguard this holiday season
Martin Myers, MD, pediatrician and longtime authority on immunization and infectious diseases, publishes book for the public titled Immunization Information: The Benefits and the Risks 
IAC Spotlight! IAC’s Immunize.org website offers many useful navigation features
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
IAC introduces new print-ready, one-page educational document for frontline vaccinators: “How to Administer Multiple Intramuscular Vaccines to Adults during One Visit”
Featured Resources
CDC’s Partnering for Vaccine Equity program announces new "Vaccine Resource Hub" with COVID-19 and influenza vaccination educational materials
Women in Government offers archived webinar “Protecting Moms and Babies: Removing State Level Barriers to Maternal Immunization”
CHOP’s Vaccine Education Center presents new video series featuring pediatricians discussing common vaccine questions for parents
AAP offers archived webinar "Increasing Influenza Vaccination Rates during the COVID-19 Pandemic"
AAP posts immunization reminder and recall strategies to identify and notify families whose children are behind on vaccinations 
Voices for Vaccines releases podcast on Omicron variant with Your Local Epidemiologist
FREE! Order IAC's popular red "FLU VACCINE" buttons and stickers. Shipping included! Available in English and Spanish.
FREE! IAC offers “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” buttons and stickers. Shipping included! Available in English and Spanish.
IAC’s elegantly designed “Vaccines Save Lives” black enamel pins make wonderful holiday gifts or workplace recognitions
Boost yourself, then encourage your friends to follow your lead by adding IAC’s “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” Facebook profile photo frame
Notable Publications
Becker's Hospital Review publishes "Protect against the Omicron Variant of COVID-19 AND Influenza This Winter" by IAC authors
The U.S. COVID-19 Vaccination Program at One Year: How Many Deaths and Hospitalizations Were Averted?” published by the Commonwealth Fund
“Report of Health Care Provider Recommendation for COVID-19 Vaccination among Adults, by Recipient COVID-19 Vaccination Status and Attitudes—United States, April–September 2021” published in MMWR
“Association of Maternal Cervical Disease with Human Papillomavirus Vaccination among Offspring” published in JAMA
MMWR recap: “Booster and Additional Primary Dose COVID-19 Vaccinations among Adults Aged ≥65 Years—United States, August 13, 2021–November 19, 2021”
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Pfizer-BioNTech offers COVID-19 vaccination provider webinars to explain new recommendations and products

Issue 1609: December 16, 2021

Donate to IAC – Our Year-End Appeal
Please Support the Immunization Action Coalition!

Issue 1608: December 15, 2021

Top Stories
CDC expands Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine booster recommendations to 16- and 17-year-olds
IAC’s “Vaccines: COVID-19” main page fully updated with educational materials and information on booster doses and childhood vaccination
IAC’s newest handout on coadministration announced during our December 9 webinar now posted along with on-demand video of “Fight the Flu and COVID-19 Too”
December 12 marked 1 year since ACIP voted to recommend the first COVID-19 vaccine in the United States; IAC thanks vaccinators for their hard work and dedication
Influenza vaccination coverage trending far lower than last year across all ages; vaccinate now
American College of Physicians launches new video series to combat vaccine misinformation
"Booster and Additional Primary Dose COVID-19 Vaccinations among Adults Aged ≥65 Years—United States, August 13, 2021–November 19, 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
“Comparative Effectiveness and Antibody Responses to Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccines among Hospitalized Veterans—Five Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, United States, February 1–September 30, 2021” published in MMWR
IAC Spotlight! Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on adult vaccination
We have a quick question for you. In just 3 minutes, your feedback can shape the future of our Immunize.org website.
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Vaccine Information Statements
New VIS translations to download now: IAC posts 4 Turkish translations of August 6 Vaccine Information Statements
Featured Resources
CDC launches “Interactive COVID-19 Vaccine Conversations Module for Healthcare Professionals”
Get them while you can! IAC offers FREE “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” buttons and stickers in English and Spanish.
Organizing a new vaccination program? Use IAC’s Vaccinating Adults: A Step-by-Step Guide—free to download by chapter or in its entirety.
Notable Publications
“Vaccination in Pregnancy against Pertussis and Seasonal Influenza: Key Learnings and Components from High-Performing Vaccine Programmes in Three Countries: The United Kingdom, the United States and Spain” published in BMC Public Health
“COVID-19 Vaccines for Adolescents: Leveraging the ABCs of Communication” published in the Journal of Adolescent Health
Global News
“Update on Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus Outbreaks—Worldwide, January 2020–June 2021” published in MMWR
“Optimizing the Supply of Vaccines for COVID-19” published in Bulletin of the World Health Organization
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Pfizer-BioNTech offers daily COVID-19 vaccination provider webinars to explain new booster recommendations and products

Issue 1607: December 14, 2021

IAC Express Special Edition - Ask the Experts: Issue 1,607
December 14, 2021
As an additional service to IAC Express readers, we periodically publish special editions such as this one, providing you with new and updated Ask the Experts questions and answers from IAC experts. This issue includes 13 Q&As about COVID-19 vaccination based on recently updated ACIP recommendations.
To find the full set of IAC's Ask the Experts COVID-19 vaccination Q&As, visit www.immunize.org/askexperts/experts_cov.asp
You can find all of these questions and answers, plus more than a thousand others about vaccines and vaccine administration, on our "Ask the Experts" gateway page at www.immunize.org/askexperts
IAC's team of experts includes Kelly L. Moore, MD, MPH (team lead), Carolyn B. Bridges, MD, FACP, and Iyabode Beysolow, MD, MPH.
COVID-19 Vaccination Questions
Q: Who is eligible to receive a booster dose of a COVID-19 vaccine? clinic?
Q: What is the difference between an “additional primary dose” of COVID-19 vaccine recommended for an immunocompromised person and a “booster dose”?
Q: My patient, age 30, has moderate immunocompromise and received an additional primary dose as recommended. Is a booster dose also recommended?
Q: My patient takes high dose steroids and received a single dose of Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine (Johnson & Johnson) in late March 2021. He fits the definition for moderate or severe immunocompromise. Should I give him an additional primary dose of Janssen vaccine?
Q: My patient, age 45, is immunocompromised and is recommended to receive an additional primary dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, but it has already been over 6 months since his second mRNA dose. What do I do now?
Q: What are the differences in the orange cap and purple cap formulations of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine?
Q: What are the recommendations for COVID-19 vaccination of children younger than 12 years?
Q: Our clinic does not stock the orange cap formulation of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for children age 5 through 11 years. Could we draw up a 10 microgram (mcg) dose out of the purple cap adolescent/adult formulation to vaccinate these children?
Q: My patient turns 12 years old later this month. Should they get the orange cap Pfizer-BioNTech formulation for children now or wait to get the purple cap Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine formulation for adolescents and adults?
Q: What do we know about the orange cap Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine effectiveness and side effects in children age 5 through 11 years?
Q: We have a patient who was partially vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine not authorized for use in the United States. What should we do?
Q: We have a patient who was fully vaccinated outside the United States with a vaccine not authorized by FDA and not on the WHO emergency use list (WHO-EUL). What do we do?
Q: What are CDC’s COVID-19 Vaccine Emergency Use Instructions (EUI) and to whom do they apply?
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Issue 1606: December 9, 2021

Donate to IAC – Our Year-End Appeal
Please Support the Immunization Action Coalition!

Issue 1605: December 8, 2021

IAC Express Issue 1,605
December 8, 2021
Top Stories
CDC warns against Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2, strengthens booster dose recommendation for all adults age 18 and older
IAC's influenza resources and December 9 Influenza Vaccination Webinar for National Influenza Vaccination Week are more valuable than ever as vaccination rates lag
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will require states to cover COVID-19 vaccine counseling for eligible children and youth
Influenza vaccination coverage trending far lower than last year across all ages; vaccinate now
"Influenza A(H3N2) Outbreak on a University Campus—Michigan, October–November 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
Please help! In just 3 minutes, your feedback can shape the future of the Immunize.org website.
IAC's Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll for mandatory healthcare worker vaccination now features 1,159 organizations, including one new facility
IAC Spotlight: Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on enhancing clinic and practice operations
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
Recap: These updated IAC educational materials for clinicians were released during October and November
Vaccine Information Statements
Recap: These new VISs and VIS translations were released during October and November
Featured Resources
Updated! IAC's "Ask the Experts: COVID-19" web page offers answers to questions about latest CDC recommendations for booster doses and vaccination of young children
Voices for Vaccines releases podcast on social media and misinformation 
Get them while you can! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers in English and Spanish.
IAC's website "Mass-Vaccination-Resources.org" can help you excel; use resources for vaccinating children age 5 through 11 years against COVID-19
Order IAC's child, adult, and lifetime immunization record cards—wallet-sized, designed to last!
Notable Publications
"COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Persons Experiencing Homelessness—Six U.S. Jurisdictions, December 2020–August 2021" published in MMWR 
Commentary on quality measures to drive improvements in immunization rates published in Population Health Management  
Upcoming Events
Tomorrow! IAC webinar December 9 at 1:00 p.m. (ET): "Fight the Flu and COVID-19 Too: Influenza Vaccination in December and beyond and Practical Approaches to Coadministration of Vaccines in Adults"
Tomorrow! NFID offers webinar "Closing the Gap: Protecting Adults with Chronic Health Conditions" on December 9
Virtual: Pfizer-BioNTech offers COVID-19 vaccination provider webinars to explain new recommendations and products
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Issue 1604: December 2, 2021

"VACCINES SAVE LIVES" PINS, IMMUNIZATION RECORD CARDS, TRAINING DVD, AND FREE COVID-19 AND FLU STICKERS AND BUTTONS!
IAC's elegantly designed "Vaccines Save Lives" black enamel pins make wonderful holiday gifts or workplace recognitions
Order IAC’s child, adult, and lifetime immunization record cards—wallet-sized, designed to last!
Every practice needs this award-winning vaccination techniques training video!
FREE! Order IAC's popular red "FLU VACCINE" buttons and stickers. Shipping included! Available in English and Spanish.
FREE! IAC offers “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” buttons and stickers. Shipping included! Available in English and Spanish.

Issue 1603: December 1, 2021

Top Stories
IAC’s popular “Ask the Experts: COVID-19” web page fully updated with answers to questions about latest CDC recommendations for booster doses and vaccination of young children
National Influenza Vaccination Week is December 5–11. Register now for IAC’s December 9 Influenza Vaccination Webinar and promote flu vaccination with influenza resources from CDC and IAC.
Influenza activity is increasing; CDC urges vaccination now
Five minutes? We need you! Help us improve your Immunize.org experience.
IAC Spotlight: Review of Immunize.org resources focused on childhood vaccination
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Vaccine Information Statements
Recap: IAC posts new translations in Burmese, Russian, Somali, and Vietnamese of Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) released by CDC on October 15, 2021
Featured Resources
Going fast! IAC offers FREE “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” buttons and stickers in English and Spanish.
Explore the updated www.Give2MenACWY.org website to increase coverage for the MenACWY booster and other adolescent vaccinations
Notable Publications
“Association of Discrimination and Health Care Experiences with Incomplete Infant Vaccination during COVID-19” published in JAMA Pediatrics
CHOP's Vaccine Education Center publishes November issue of Vaccine Update for Providers newsletter
Upcoming Events
IAC webinar December 9 at 1:00 p.m. (ET): “Fight the Flu and COVID-19 Too: Influenza Vaccination in December and beyond and Practical Approaches to Coadministration of Vaccines in Adults”

Issue 1602: November 30, 2021

Donate to IAC – Our Year-End Appeal
Honor Giving Tuesday with a gift to support immunization

Issue 1601: November 24, 2021

Top Stories
IAC summarizes November 19 ACIP meeting expanding recommendations for COVID-19 vaccine boosters to include all adults age 18 years and older
Influenza is returning! CDC urges vaccination now, investigates large outbreak on University of Michigan campus.
Help us improve your Immunize.org website experience. Please take 5 minutes to complete our website user-feedback survey.
IAC posts new translations in Burmese, Russian, Somali, and Vietnamese of Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) released by CDC on October 15, 2021
CDC issues emergency use instructions and guidance for the use of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine among recipients of COVID-19 vaccines not authorized in the United States
November 22 designated Public Health Thank You Day. IAC adds our thanks as the nation recognizes our dedicated public health workforce!
IAC Spotlight! Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on vaccine products
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
IAC updates “Administering Vaccines: Dose, Route, Site, and Needle Size” print-ready handouts
Featured Resources
Resolve to Save Lives creates “Voices of Long COVID” campaign to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake
Going fast! IAC offers FREE “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” buttons and stickers in English and Spanish.
More COVID-19 vaccine doses in your family? Encourage your friends to follow your lead by adding IAC’s “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” Facebook profile photo frame.
IAC’s shop offers great gift ideas for your colleagues and coworkers this holiday season!
Notable Publications
"Mycobacterium porcinum Skin and Soft Tissue Infections after Vaccinations—Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio, September 2018–February 2019" published in MMWR
"Incidence of SARS-CoV-2 Infection, Emergency Department Visits, and Hospitalizations because of COVID-19 among Persons Aged ≥12 Years, by COVID-19 Vaccination Status—Oregon and Washington, July 4–September 25, 2021" published in MMWR
"State Laws Permitting Adolescent Consent to Human Papillomavirus Vaccination and Rates of Immunization" published in JAMA Pediatrics
Upcoming Events
Register now! IAC webinar December 9 at 1:00 p.m. (ET): “Fight the Flu and COVID-19 Too: Influenza Vaccination in December and beyond and Practical Approaches to Coadministration of Vaccines in Adults”
Virtual: National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine offers webinar “Communication Strategies for Building Confidence in COVID-19 Vaccines: Addressing Variants and Childhood Vaccinations” on November 30
Virtual: Project VCTR offers webinar "How to Combat and Respond to Anti-vaccine Attacks on Social Media" on November 30 
Back to top

Issue 1600: November 17, 2021

Top Stories
Register now for upcoming IAC webinar! December 9 at 1:00 p.m. (ET): “Fight the Flu and COVID-19 Too: Influenza Vaccination in December and beyond and Practical Approaches to Coadministration of Vaccines in Adults”
New VIS translations to print now: IAC posts translations in five languages of Vaccine Information Statements released by CDC on October 15, 2021
14th edition of the "Pink Book," CDC’s Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, now available to pre-order or download
Institute for Safe Medication Practices highlights potential mix-ups between adult and pediatric COVID-19 vaccines, offers strategies to avoid errors
Use IAC's refreshed "Repository of Resources for Maintaining Immunization during the COVID-19 Pandemic" to help you catch up children on all recommended vaccines
IAC Spotlight: Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on vaccine-preventable diseases, one disease at a time
U.S. Surgeon General issues new toolkit for addressing health misinformation as COVID-19 vaccines roll out to school-age children
Public Health Communications Collaborative updates toolkit with information on COVID-19 vaccination for children
Bird is the word! Sesame Street offers interactive web page with videos, ready-to-print handouts, and other engaging, kid-focused content on vaccines.
Vaccines in the news
Featured Resources
IAC’s Hepatitis B Birth Dose Honor Roll recognizes 544 institutions, including four new honorees. Four previously honored institutions qualify for additional years' honors.
Get them while they last! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers. Buttons available in English, buttons and stickers available in Spanish.
Organizing a new vaccination program? Use IAC's Vaccinating Adults: A Step-by-Step Guide—free to download by chapter or in its entirety.
Notable Publications
CDC publishes “Influenza Vaccinations during the COVID-19 Pandemic—11 U.S. Jurisdictions, September–December 2020” in MMWR
MMWR Recap: “The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ Interim Recommendation for Use of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine in Children Aged 5–11 Years—United States, November 2021”
Global News
CDC publishes “Progress toward Regional Measles Elimination—Worldwide, 2000–2020” in MMWR
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Today! Duke Margolis Center for Health Policy hosts webinar titled "Children and COVID-19: Strategies and Partnerships for Vaccination"
Virtual: Nevada Immunization Learning Exchange offers webinar titled “The Basics of mRNA Vaccines and Effectiveness” on November 18

Issue 1599: November 10, 2021

Top Stories
IAC summarizes November 2 ACIP meeting recommending Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for children age 5 through 11 years
CDC publishes ACIP recommendations for use of COVID-19 Vaccine in children age 5–11 years and updates its interim clinical considerations for use of COVID-19 vaccines website
IAC summarizes November 3 ACIP meeting on hepatitis B, orthopoxvirus, and Ebola vaccines, and 2022 schedules
“Effectiveness of 2-Dose Vaccination with mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines against COVID-19–Associated Hospitalizations among Immunocompromised Adults—Nine States, January–September 2021” published in MMWR
CMS issues emergency regulation requiring COVID-19 vaccination for healthcare personnel
AIM and Duke-Margolis Center offer school-located vaccination resources to increase child and adolescent vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic
AMGA launches a national campaign, "Rise to Immunize," to increase routine adult vaccination rates
IAC's Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll for mandatory healthcare worker vaccination now features 1,158 organizations, including two new facilities
IAC Spotlight: Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on adolescent vaccination
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
IAC updates its 2021–2022 season standing orders for administering influenza vaccine to children age 6 months through 18 years with Flucelvax age indication change
IAC updates its print-ready fact sheet "Influenza Vaccine Products for the 2021–2022 Influenza Season" with Flucelvax age indication change
Featured Resources
Give thanks for COVID-19 vaccines this season! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers. Available in English and Spanish.
Keep up with influenza this season: CDC’s FluView surveillance reports posted weekly
Order IAC's child, adult, and lifetime immunization record cards—wallet-sized, designed to last!
IAC's website "Mass-Vaccination-Resources.org" can help you excel; use resources for vaccinating children age 5 through 11 years against COVID-19
Notable Publications
"Hepatitis B Vaccination among Adults with Diabetes Mellitus, U.S., 2018" published in American Journal of Preventive Medicine
MMWR Recap: Lab-confirmed COVID-19 among adults with infection or mRNA vaccine-induced immunity and ACIP recommendations for primary and booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines
Global News
November 12 is World Pneumonia Day
"The Effects of the National HPV Vaccination Programme in England, UK, on Cervical Cancer and Grade 3 Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia Incidence: A Register-Based Observational Study" published in Lancet
Upcoming Events
COVID-19 vaccination provider webinars to explain new recommendations and products
Virtual: NAM hosts "Report Release Webinar: Advancing Pandemic and Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Preparedness and Response" on November 18  

Issue 1598: November 3, 2021

Top Stories
Watch today (November 3 at 10:00 a.m. ET): ACIP meeting on hepatitis B, orthopoxvirus, Ebola vaccines, and immunization schedules; no registration required
"The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ Interim Recommendations for Additional Primary and Booster Doses of COVID-19 Vaccines—United States, 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
CDC updates interim clinical considerations for COVID-19 vaccines, including booster doses of Moderna and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccines
COVID-19 vaccination provider webinars to explain new recommendations and products
CDC updates orders regarding COVID-19 testing and vaccination of international travelers flying to the United States, effective November 8
GlaxoSmithKline recalls one lot of pediatric hepatitis B vaccine pre-filled syringes for missing label on some syringes
Keep up with influenza this season: CDC’s FluView surveillance reports now being posted weekly
IAC Spotlight! IAC’s “Standing Orders Templates for Administering Vaccines” main page offers templates to facilitate vaccine delivery
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Correction: IAC Express # 1,597 (October 27)
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
IAC updates four influenza-related, print-ready materials for patients and healthcare personnel
Recap: These updated IAC materials for clinicians were released during September and October
Vaccine Information Statements
Recap: These new VISs and VIS translations were released during September and October
Featured Resources
Give thanks for COVID-19 vaccines this season! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers. Available in English and Spanish.
Explore the updated www.Give2MenACWY.org website to increase coverage for the MenACWY booster and other adolescent vaccinations
Notable Publications
"Laboratory-Confirmed COVID-19 among Adults Hospitalized with COVID-19-Like Illness with Infection-Induced or mRNA Vaccine-Induced SARS-CoV-2 Immunity—Nine States, January–September 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
MMWR Recap: "COVID-19 Vaccination and Non-COVID-19 Mortality Risk––Seven Integrated Health Care Organizations, United States, December 14, 2020–July 31, 2021” 
CHOP's Vaccine Education Center publishes October issue of Vaccine Update newsletter
Global News
"Routine Vaccination Coverage—Worldwide, 2020” published in MMWR 
Upcoming Events
Today! Virtual: CDC offers "Current Issues in Immunization Webinar" on recommendations for the 2021–22 influenza season on November 3
Virtual: Vaccine Education Center’s Current Issues in Vaccines for Providers webinar on December 8 features Dr. Paul Offit discussing COVID-19 vaccine booster doses; CE available

Issue 1597: October 27, 2021

Top Stories
November 2–3: Watch the virtual ACIP meeting on COVID-19 vaccine recommendation for children age 5–11 years
IAC summarizes ACIP meeting on COVID-19 booster doses, October 21
IAC summarizes ACIP meeting on pneumococcal, zoster, and influenza vaccines, October 20
CDC posts web page "COVID-19 Vaccination for Children 5–11 Years Old” to help public health clinics, pharmacists, and community partners plan for COVID-19 vaccination of this age group in near future 
Hosting happy holidays: CDC guidance emphasizes vaccination for safe gatherings
Voices for Vaccines releases podcast with IAC"s L.J Tan, MS, PhD, on the upcoming influenza season co-occurring with the pandemic
IAC Spotlight: Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on communications
National Academy of Medicine elects 100 new members, including IAC's John Grabenstein, RPh, PhD 
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Vaccine Information Statements
CDC releases four updated Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) for immediate use; translations in progress
Featured Resources
Scare off COVID-19 this Halloween! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers. Available in English and Spanish.
Got your COVID-19 booster recently? Encourage friends to follow your lead by adding IAC"s "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” Facebook profile photo frame.
Notable Publications
"Effectiveness of Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA Vaccination against COVID-19 Hospitalization among Persons Aged 12–18 Years—United States, June–September 2021” published in MMWR
"COVID-19 Vaccination and Non-COVID-19 Mortality Risk—Seven Integrated Health Care Organizations, United States, December 14, 2020–July 31, 2021” published in MMWR Early Release 
"COVID-19 Vaccination during Pregnancy and First-Trimester Miscarriage” published in NEJM 
Upcoming Events
Tomorrow! Virtual: ACOG hosts webinar titled "COVID-19 Vaccination during Pregnancy: What You Need to Know" on October 28.
Virtual: CDC offers webinar titled "Influenza Update—2021–2022” on November 3; seats are limited, recording will be posted
Back to top

Issue 1596: October 21, 2021

Shop IAC for free
FREE! Special one-time offer: order IAC's popular red "FLU VACCINE" buttons and stickers. Shipping included! Available in English and Spanish.
FREE! IAC offers "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” buttons and stickers. Shipping included! Available in English and Spanish.
NOT FREE––but our readers love them! IAC's elegantly designed "Vaccines Save Lives" black enamel pins make wonderful holiday gifts or workplace recognitions.
Back to top

Issue 1595: October 20, 2021

Top Stories
CDC releases four updated Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) for immediate use; translations in progress
CDC publishes new national immunization survey results for early childhood in MMWR: “Vaccination Coverage by Age 24 Months among Children Born in 2017 and 2018—National Immunization Survey-Child, United States, 2018–2020” 
FDA licenses Flucelvax Quadrivalent (Seqirus) for children age 6 months and older
Vaccinate Your Family launches influenza toolkit with a library of shareable resources for the 2021–22 flu season
IAC Spotlight! IAC's "Clinic Tools” main page is a one-stop source of practical information for vaccination providers
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
IAC updates "You Must Provide Patients with Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) – It's the Law!" to reflect new VIS version dates
IAC revises "Dates of Current Vaccine Information Statements (VISs)" checklist to reflect new VIS version dates
IAC updates “Protective Measures for Vaccinating during the Pandemic”
Featured Resources
YouTube announces a new vaccine education video series for healthcare professionals and the public provided by AAP, CHOP, and ACP
Reminder: IAC recently updated its “Vaccines: COVID-19” main page with educational materials and information on Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine booster doses
Let all the kids know you say “boo” to COVID-19 this Halloween! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers to everyone promoting vaccination in hesitant communities. Available in English and Spanish.
Organizing a new vaccination program? Use IAC's Vaccinating Adults: A Step-by-Step Guide—free to download by chapter or in its entirety.
Notable Publications
“Vaccine Coverage across the Life Course in Michigan during the COVID-19 Pandemic: January–September 2020” published in American Journal of Public Health
Global News
“Supporting National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups in the WHO European Region in Developing National COVID-19 Vaccination Recommendations through Online Communication Platform” published in Vaccine
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Watch ACIP today and tomorrow (October 20–21 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET); no registration is required    
Virtual: CDC offers "Current Issues in Immunization Webinar" on recommendations for the 2021–22 influenza season on November 3 

Issue 1594: October 13, 2021

Top Stories
CDC launches "Let’s Play Catch Up" resources to encourage routine childhood vaccinations
IAC updates "COVID-19 Vaccines" main page with educational materials and information on Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine booster doses
Institute for Safe Medication Practices highlights mix-ups between influenza vaccines and COVID-19 vaccines, offers safety strategies to avoid future errors
Keep up with influenza this season: CDC’s FluView surveillance reports now being posted weekly
American Lung Association and Anthem Foundation launch "Fend Off Flu" campaign to increase flu knowledge and vaccination rates
IAC Spotlight! Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on the history of vaccines
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
IAC updates "Healthcare Personnel Vaccination Recommendations" with information on COVID-19 vaccines
Vaccine Information Statements
New VIS translations to download now: IAC posts 6 Turkish translations of August 6 Vaccine Information Statements 
Featured Resources
Spread the word, not the virus! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers to those promoting vaccination in hesitant communities. Available in English and Spanish.
IAC's red "FLU VACCINE" buttons and stickers are a bright idea. Order today!
Order IAC's child, adult, and lifetime immunization record cards—wallet-sized, designed to last!
IAC's website Mass-Vaccination-Resources.org can help you excel at mass vaccination activities
Notable Publications
Journal of Infectious Diseases: Triumphs of Vaccination supplement publishes 16 articles on vaccine achievements
HHS publishes report titled "Associations between County-Level Vaccination Rates and COVID-19 Outcomes among Medicare Beneficiaries," showing cases and deaths prevented
White House releases report describing rationale for COVID-19 vaccination requirements
AAP publishes October issue of Immunization Initiatives newsletter
Global News
WHO recommends groundbreaking malaria vaccine for children at risk
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Watch the ACIP meetings on October 20 and 21 and on November 2 and 3; no registration is required
Virtual: FDA advisors will meet on October 14, 15, and 26 to discuss COVID-19 booster doses and vaccination of children age 5–11 years
Virtual: Shot of Prevention offers on-demand video titled "Vaccines for Teens and Preteens: A Live Q&A with Dr. Nneka Holder"

Issue 1593: October 6, 2021

Top Stories
CDC issues urgent health advisory to increase COVID-19 vaccination for people before, after, or during pregnancy
IAC summarizes September 29 ACIP meeting on zoster, pneumococcal, and hepatitis B vaccination and other diseases
New VIS translations to download now: IAC posts Arabic, Burmese, French, and Somali translations of August 6 Vaccine Information Statements for multiple vaccines
"Safety Monitoring of an Additional Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine—United States, August 12–September 19, 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
IAC Spotlight: Check out the Immunize.org resources to help with your vaccine advocacy
IAC’s Hepatitis B Birth Dose Honor Roll recognizes 540 institutions, including one new honoree. Five previously honored institutions qualify for additional years' honors.
Your colleagues don’t want to be the last to know. Urge them to subscribe to IAC Express for free.
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
IAC and AIM update print-ready training tool: "Communicating the Benefits of Influenza Vaccine during COVID-19"
Echo: These updated IAC educational materials for clinicians were released during August and September
Vaccine Information Statements
Echo: These new VISs and VIS translations were released during August and September
Featured Resources
CDC provides field guide with 12 evidence-based strategies to promote COVID-19 vaccination confidence and uptake
Public Health Communications Collaborative releases resources to help answer questions about COVID-19 vaccine booster doses and support vaccination outreach
Spread the word, not the virus! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers to those promoting vaccination in hesitant communities. Available in English and Spanish
Explore the updated www.Give2MenACWY.org website to increase coverage for the MenACWY booster and other adolescent vaccinations
IAC's red "FLU VACCINE" buttons and stickers are a bright idea. Order today!
IAC's Calendar of Events provides information about federal, state, and national partners' vaccination conferences, as well as professional societies' annual meetings
Notable Publications
CHOP's Vaccine Education Center publishes September issue of Vaccine Update newsletter
"Disparities in COVID-19 Vaccination Status, Intent, and Perceived Access for Noninstitutionalized Adults, by Disability Status—National Immunization Survey Adult COVID Module, United States, May 30–June 26, 2021" published in MMWR
"Protection of BNT162b2 Vaccine Booster against COVID-19 in Israel" published in NEJM
"Effectiveness of mRNA Covid-19 Vaccine among U.S. Health Care Personnel" published in NEJM
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Massachusetts Immunization Action Partnership hosts 26th annual "MIAP Pediatric Immunization Skills Building Conference" on October 28; CE available
Virtual: University of Nevada, Las Vegas offers webinar titled COVID-19 Vaccines, Masks, and Mandates: Exploring the Legal Boundaries of Public Health Protections on November 4

Issue 1592: September 29, 2021

Top Stories
CDC recommends a booster dose for recipients of a Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine primary series who are age 65 years or older, who reside in long-term care facilities, who are age 18 through 64 with underlying health conditions, or who are at high risk of occupational or institutional exposure to COVID-19
"Use of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine in Persons Aged >16 Years: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, September 2021" published in MMWR
Use lessons from COVID-19 vaccination efforts to protect more patients from influenza! Two IAC influenza webinars for vaccine providers are now available for online viewing.
CDC launches "I Get It" flu vaccination campaign
CMS launches new Medicare.gov feature to compare nursing homes by COVID-19 vaccination rate
IAC's Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll for mandatory healthcare worker vaccination now features 1,156 organizations, including two new facilities
IAC Spotlight: IAC's Handouts web page provides free access to hundreds of vaccination-related handouts and fact sheets
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Featured Resources
Spread the word, not the virus! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers to those promoting vaccination in hesitant communities. Available in English and Spanish.
Notable Publications
MMWR Recap: "Comparative Effectiveness of Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) Vaccines in Preventing COVID-19 Hospitalizations among Adults without Immunocompromising Conditions—United States, March–August 2021"
"Association between Human Papillomavirus Infection among Pregnant Women and Preterm Birth" published in JAMA Network Open
Upcoming Events
Watch today (September 29 at 10 a.m. ET): ACIP meeting on zoster, pneumococcal, and hepatitis B vaccination and other topics; no registration required
Virtual: CDC offers archived webinar for clinicians titled "What Clinicians Need to Know about the Latest CDC Recommendations for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Booster Vaccination"
Virtual: CDC and AAP will host webinar for clinicians titled "2021–22 Recommendations for Influenza Prevention and Treatment in Children: An Update for Pediatric Practitioners" on October 7
Virtual: NFID to hold influenza/pneumococcal news conference on October 7
Virtual: Register now for online NFID Clinical Vaccinology Course, November 15–17; CME/CNE available

Issue 1591: September 22, 2021

Top Stories
September 22–23: Watch the virtual ACIP meeting on COVID-19 vaccine booster policy; no registration required
CDC updates “Vaccines & Immunizations: COVID-19 Vaccines” web page, including two new sections
IAC updates its "Ask the Experts: Influenza" web page to answer questions about what's new from ACIP for the 2021–22 influenza season 
"Comparative Effectiveness of Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) Vaccines in Preventing COVID-19 Hospitalizations among Adults without Immunocompromising Conditions—United States, March–August 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
IAC posts Russian translations of 14 new Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) issued by CDC on August 6
IAC Spotlight: Check out IAC’s companion websites
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Vaccine Information Statements
IAC posts new translations of current VISs in Chinese, Dari, Pashto, Spanish, Turkish, and Vietnamese
Featured Resources
Spread the word, not the virus! IAC offers FREE “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” buttons and stickers to those promoting vaccination in hesitant communities. Available in English and Spanish.
IAC's red "FLU VACCINE" buttons and stickers are a bright idea. Order today!
Vaccinated against COVID-19? Encourage friends to follow your lead by adding IAC’s “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” Facebook profile photo frame.
Great gift idea! IAC's elegantly designed "Vaccines Save Lives" black enamel pins make wonderful holiday gifts or workplace recognitions.
Notable Publications
“New COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations among Adults, by Vaccination Status—New York, May 3–July 25, 2021” published in MMWR
“Safety and Efficacy of the BNT162b2 mRNA Covid-19 Vaccine through 6 Months” published in NEJM
MMWR Recap: COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness studies
Global News
September 28 is World Rabies Day
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Watch the ACIP meeting on tick-borne encephalitis, zoster, and pneumococcal vaccination on September 29; no registration required
Virtual: View the panel discussions “Partners in Vaccination: A Collaboration between the AAP, AIM, and NACCHO” on September 29 and October 13
Virtual: Unity Consortium offers webinar “Working Together to Protect Our Adolescents in School Environments from Vaccine-Preventable Diseases” moderated by Chelsea Clinton on September 30
Virtual: Nevada Immunization Learning Exchange offers webinar titled “COVID-19 Vaccine and Delta Variant: Facts vs. Misinformation” on September 30

Issue 1590: September 21, 2021

IAC Express Special Edition - Ask the Experts: Issue 1,590
September 21, 2021
As an additional service to IAC Express readers, we periodically publish special editions such as this one, providing you with new and updated Ask the Experts questions and answers from IAC experts. This issue includes 16 Q&As about influenza vaccination based on recently updated ACIP recommendations.
To find the full set of IAC's Ask the Experts influenza vaccination Q&As, visit www.immunize.org/askexperts/experts_inf.asp.
You can find all of these questions and answers, plus more than a thousand others about vaccines and vaccine administration, on our "Ask the Experts" gateway page at www.immunize.org/askexperts.
IAC's team of experts includes Kelly L. Moore, MD, MPH (team lead) and Carolyn B. Bridges, MD, FACP.
Influenza Vaccination Questions for the 2021–22 Season
Q: Please summarize what's new in the 2021–22 influenza vaccine recommendations.
Q: Which influenza vaccines will be available during the 2021–22 influenza season?
Q: What are the vaccine viruses for the 2021–22 influenza season?
Q: When does CDC recommend starting influenza vaccination?
Q: Since influenza virus circulation was very limited during the 2020–21 influenza season, what might be expected for the 2021–22 influenza season?
Q: May influenza vaccines be given at the same time as other vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines?
Q: What influenza vaccines are available for children for the 2021–22 influenza season?
Q: What influenza vaccines are available for adults?
Q: Which children younger than age 9 years will need 2 doses of influenza vaccine in this influenza season?
Q: What is the ACIP guidance on influenza vaccination and egg allergy?
Q: What are the contraindications and precautions for people with a history of a severe allergic reaction to a previous influenza vaccination?
Q: What types of personal protective equipment do healthcare personnel need for administering vaccines in light of COVID-19?
Q: Where can I find resources to help me plan mass vaccination clinics for influenza or COVID-19 vaccines?
Q: Is it acceptable to draw up vaccine into syringes at the beginning of the day? If it isn't, how much in advance can this be done?
Q: What are CDC recommendations for influenza vaccination of people who have already become ill with influenza during the season?
Q: Can people who are currently infected with COVID-19 be vaccinated against influenza?

Issue 1589: September 15, 2021

Top Stories
The White House announces strategy to combat COVID-19 and reduce the number of unvaccinated Americans
Happy Mexican Independence Day! Here's an introduction to vaccination information and advocacy in Mexico.
IAC hosts influenza webinars: Register for September 20 webinar and view archived video from September 9, now available online
New VIS translations to download now: IAC posts Chinese, Dari, Pashto, Turkish, and Vietnamese translations of August 6 Vaccine Information Statements for multiple vaccines
CDC launches Public Health AmeriCorps, a partnership to help recruit, train, and develop a new generation of leaders to respond to the nation's public health needs; applications now being accepted
National medical boards endorse policy recommending penalties for physicians who spread COVID-19 misinformation
"Monitoring Incidence of COVID-19 Cases, Hospitalizations, and Deaths, by Vaccination Status—13 U.S. Jurisdictions, April 4–July 17, 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
"Interim Estimates of COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness against COVID-19–Associated Emergency Department or Urgent Care Clinic Encounters and Hospitalizations among Adults during SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617.2 (Delta) Variant Predominance—Nine States, June–August 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
"Effectiveness of COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines against COVID-19–Associated Hospitalization—Five Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, United States, February 1–August 6, 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
IAC Spotlight: Expedite vaccination by using IAC's screening checklists
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
IAC posts updated 2021–2022 versions of its popular standing orders for administering influenza vaccine to children age 6 months through 18 years and to adults
IAC posts updated 2021–2022 screening checklists for contraindications to intranasal and injectable influenza
Featured Resources
Show your strong support! Order IAC's "Me Vacuné…" and "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers, now FREE to all organizations promoting or offering COVID-19 vaccination!
Flu vaccine season is underway. Order IAC's flu vaccine buttons and stickers for staff and patients today!
Organizing a new vaccination program? Use IAC's Vaccinating Adults: A Step-by-Step Guide—free to download by chapter or in its entirety.
IAC's gateway page "Vaccination and COVID-19" offers a collection of tools from many organizations to sustain routine vaccination services during the pandemic
Notable Publications
"Surveillance for Adverse Events after COVID-19 mRNA Vaccination" published in JAMA
"Effect of Personalized Messages Sent by a Health System's Patient Portal on Influenza Vaccination Rates: A Randomized Clinical Trial" published in Journal of General Internal Medicine
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Register now! IAC's second influenza vaccination webinar on September 20. Our expert panel will offer ways to use the lessons of effective COVID-19 vaccination to inform flu vaccination efforts.
Virtual: Register for Duke's Margolis Center for Health Policy webinar "School-Located Vaccination Strategies to Increase Child and Adolescent Immunization Rates during the COVID-19 Pandemic" on September 17
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
To conclude this PSA series, we review the celebrities who promoted the good works of the March of Dimes in the 1950s

Issue 1588: September 8, 2021

Top Stories
Register now for IAC's second September influenza webinar, coming September 20! Our expert panel will offer ideas on translating COVID-19 vaccination strategies to inform flu vaccination efforts.
IAC posts Spanish translations of 14 updated Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) released by CDC in August
NIS-Teen 2020 results published in MMWR: "National, Regional, State, and Selected Local Area Vaccination Coverage among Adolescents Aged 13–17 Years—United States, 2020"
CDC launches toolkit with COVID-19 resources for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their caregivers
National Resource Center for Refugees, Immigrants, and Migrants posts "COVID-19 Resources for Afghan New Arrivals" in Dari, Pashto, and Farsi languages
AAP launches COVID-19 vaccine confidence campaign with television PSAs in English and Spanish
HHS Office on Women's Health releases provider toolkit titled HPV VAX NOW in Your Clinic: A Guide to Improving HPV Vaccination Rates among Patients Ages 18–26
Meningitis B Action Project launches back-to-school resources to encourage vaccination; new social media series titled "Be a Team Player"
CDC recognizes the contributions of Capt. Amanda Cohn, ACIP executive secretary, who will next direct CDC's Division on Birth Defects and Infant Disorders
IAC's Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll for mandatory healthcare worker vaccination now features 1,154 organizations, including two new facilities
IAC Spotlight: Check out the variety of staff training and in-service resources available at Immunize.org
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
IAC updates its print-ready fact sheet "Influenza Vaccine Products for the 2021–2022 Influenza Season"
Featured Resources
Flu vaccine season is underway. Order IAC's flu vaccine buttons and stickers for staff and patients today!
Show your strong support! Order IAC's "Me Vacuné…" and "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers, now FREE to all organizations promoting or offering COVID-19 vaccination!.
Order IAC's child, adult, and lifetime immunization record cards—wallet-sized, designed to last!
IAC's website Mass-Vaccination-Resources.org can help you excel at community vaccination events
Upcoming Events
Virtual: Attend IAC's first influenza webinar on September 9. Our expert panel answers your questions on preventing influenza during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Virtual: Immunize Colorado hosts "Vaccine Town Hall: Answering Your Questions about COVID-19 Vaccines, Variants, Boosters and the Status of Routine Vaccination" on September 15
Virtual: FDA holds Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) meeting on September 17 to discuss additional doses of COVID-19 vaccines
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this PSA from Scottish Rite Children's Medical Center (Georgia), a narrator discusses the importance of hepatitis B vaccination at birth

Issue 1587: September 1, 2021

Top Stories
Following full FDA licensure, ACIP recommends use of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine (Comirnaty) for individuals age 16 years and older
Register now for IAC's September 9 webinar! Our expert panel answers your questions on preventing influenza during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2021–22 Influenza Season" published in MMWR Recommendations and Reports
"COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Adolescents Aged 12–17 Years—United States, December 14, 2020–July 31, 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
IAC updates its "Ask the Experts: COVID-19" web page to answer questions about FDA licensure, vaccination during pregnancy, additional doses of mRNA vaccines for immunocompromised people, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and myocarditis
IAC Spotlight! IAC's "Clinic Tools: Administering Vaccines" gateway page provides resources from authoritative sources
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
IAC updates its popular temperature logs for refrigerators and freezers; available in Celsius and Fahrenheit
IAC updates its Vaccine Storage Troubleshooting Record to document occurrence and resolution of questionable or unacceptable vaccine storage events
IAC updates its handout for healthcare professionals titled "Checklist for Safe Vaccine Storage and Handling"
IAC updates its handout for healthcare professionals titled "Don't Be Guilty of These Preventable Errors in Vaccine Administration!"
IAC updates its handout for healthcare professionals titled "Supplies You May Need at an Immunization Clinic"
Echo: These updated IAC patient and staff educational materials were released during July and August
Vaccine Information Statements
Be sure to update your VISs! CDC releases 14 updated Vaccine Information Statements; translations in progress.
Featured Resources
Show your strong support! Order IAC's "Me Vacuné…" and "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers, now FREE to all organizations promoting or offering COVID-19 vaccination!
It's time to kick off flu vaccine season. Don't delay; order IAC's flu vaccine buttons and stickers for staff and patients today!
Teens are back in school, but many are still missing vaccinations! Check out updated www.Give2MenACWY.org website to increase coverage for the MenACWY booster and other adolescent vaccinations.
American Hospital Association launches new PSA campaign to encourage hesitant hospital workers to get vaccinated
Notable Publications
"Safety of the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine in a Nationwide Setting" published in New England Journal of Medicine
"Vaccinations against COVID-19 May Have Averted up to 140,000 Deaths in the United States" published in Health Affairs
"A Megastudy of Text-Based Nudges Encouraging Patients to Get Vaccinated at an Upcoming Doctor's Appointment" published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
MMWR recap: COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations by vaccination status and vaccine effectiveness estimates
Global News
CDC and WHO report on progress toward polio eradication, worldwide, in this week's MMWR and Weekly Epidemiological Record, respectively
Upcoming Events
Watch today (September 1 at 5 p.m. ET): National Academy of Medicine's webinar "COVID-19 Conversations #21 the Fourth Wave: Vaccines, Variants, and the Future"; CME available
Also today (September 1 at 3 p.m. ET): Nevada Immunization Learning Exchange's webinar "The State of the Pandemic: Where Do We Stand and Where Do We Go from Here?"; CEU available
IAC's Calendar of Events provides information about federal, state, and national partners' vaccination conferences, as well as professional societies' annual meetings
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this compelling PSA from Pennsylvania Department of Health, we hear Tim Baker, an infant diagnosed with pertussis, struggle to breathe during coughing fits

Issue 1586: August 26, 2021

IAC Express Special Edition - Ask the Experts: Issue 1,586
August 26, 2021
As an additional service to IAC Express readers, we periodically publish special editions such as this one, providing you with new and updated Ask the Experts questions and answers from IAC experts. This issue includes selected Q&As about the latest updates to CDC recommendations for the use of COVID-19 vaccines. In this issue, you will find updates on FDA licensure, vaccination during pregnancy, additional doses of mRNA vaccines for immunocompromised people, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and myocarditis.
You can find all of these questions and answers, plus more than a thousand others about vaccines and vaccine administration, on our "Ask the Experts" gateway page at www.immunize.org/askexperts.
IAC's team of experts includes Kelly L. Moore, MD, MPH (team lead) and Carolyn B. Bridges, MD, FACP.
Latest Questions about COVID-19 Vaccines
Q: What does FDA’s approval of the biologics licensure application (BLA) for Comirnaty, the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, mean for my clinic?
Q: Are COVID-19 vaccines recommended during pregnancy?
Q: Are COVID-19 vaccines recommended if the recipient is breastfeeding?
Q: Are COVID-19 vaccines safe during pregnancy?
Q: Can COVID-19 vaccination lead to fertility problems?
Q: What is the difference between an "additional dose" of COVID-19 vaccine recommended for an immunocompromised person and a "booster dose"?
Q: Why is an additional dose of mRNA vaccine recommended for some immunocompromised people?
Q: Exactly which immunocompromised groups are recommended to receive an additional dose of mRNA vaccine?
Q: Should I conduct serologic testing or cellular immune testing before or after offering an additional dose of mRNA vaccine to an immunocompromised patient?
Q: Does it matter which brand of mRNA vaccine I give to an immunocompromised person who is recommended to receive an additional dose?
Q: My patient takes high dose steroids and received a single dose of Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine (Johnson & Johnson) in late March 2021. He meets the definition of moderate or severe immunocompromise. Should I give him an additional dose of Janssen or mRNA vaccine?
Q: My patient has had a kidney transplant and wants to know if he is considered fully vaccinated for public health purposes (e.g., allowed to enter a restaurant where proof of immunization is required) if he has received the 2-dose mRNA primary series but has not yet had an additional dose?
Q: We have a patient who was fully vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine not authorized in the U.S. Do we need to revaccinate?
Q: Have any COVID-19 vaccines been associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS)?
Q: Tell me about mRNA COVID-19 vaccines and the risk of myocarditis and pericarditis.
Q: My patient had an episode of myocarditis 5 years ago. Is a history of myocarditis a contraindication or precaution to vaccination with an mRNA vaccine?

Issue 1585: August 25, 2021

Top Stories
IAC and other National Adult and Influenza Immunization Summit members issue Call to Action to improve routine vaccination of adults
Register now to prepare for flu season! IAC will hold "The Continued Threat of Influenza and How to Sustain Influenza Vaccination Efforts" webinar on September 9
FDA licenses Comirnaty, the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, for individuals 16 years of age or older; FDA issues new consolidated Fact Sheets
CMS and CDC are developing emergency regulation to require staff COVID-19 vaccination in Medicare- and Medicaid-participating nursing homes
Wrapping up National Immunization Awareness Month: promote vaccination with helpful resources for all ages
"New COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations among Adults, by Vaccination Status—New York, May 3–July 25, 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
Watch the virtual ACIP meeting on COVID-19 vaccination on August 30–31; no registration is required
FDA licenses Ticovac to prevent tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in individuals 1 year of age and older
IAC's Hepatitis B Birth Dose Honor Roll recognizes 539 institutions, including two new honorees. Four previously honored institutions qualify for additional years' honors.
IAC Spotlight! "Ask the Experts" gateway page offers more than a thousand questions on vaccines and vaccination answered by IAC experts
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Vaccine Information Statements
Update Your VISs! CDC releases 14 updated Vaccine Information Statements; translations in progress
Featured Resources
National Nurse-Led Care Consortium releases COVID-19 toolkit for nurses to decrease vaccine hesitancy and increase vaccination rates in the community
AMA releases AMA STEPS Forward toolkit containing resources facilitating team-based adult vaccination
Immunize Kansas Coalition posts "Truth about Vaccines" handout designed for refugee audiences in ten languages
Great gift idea! IAC's elegantly designed "Vaccines Save Lives" black enamel pins make wonderful holiday gifts or workplace recognitions!
Encourage others to get vaccinated by ordering IAC's "Me Vacuné…" and "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers, now FREE to all organizations promoting or offering COVID-19 vaccination!
Fall is around the corner; so is flu season! Stock up on IAC's flu vaccine buttons and stickers for staff and patients.
Vaccinated? Encourage friends by adding IAC's "Me Vacuné…" or "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame.
Notable Publications
"Sustained Effectiveness of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna Vaccines against COVID-19 Associated Hospitalizations among Adults—United States, March–July 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
"Effectiveness of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna Vaccines in Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Infection among Nursing Home Residents before and during Widespread Circulation of the SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617.2 (Delta) Variant—National Healthcare Safety Network, March 1–August 1, 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
"Confronting the Delta Variant of SARS-CoV-2, Summer 2021" published in JAMA
"COVID-19 Vaccine Breakthrough Cases: Data from the States" published by Kaiser Family Foundation
CHOP's Vaccine Education Center publishes August issue of Vaccine Update newsletter
Upcoming Events
"CHOP Vaccine Education Center's Current Issues in Vaccines webinar on September 22 features Dr. Paul Offit discussing myths and misinformation surrounding COVID-19 vaccines; CE available
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this entertaining PSA from Scottish Rite Children's Medical Center (Georgia), children lip synch a Gladys Knight song to remind us that they are able to use their imaginations when they are protected

Issue 1584: August 18, 2021

Top Stories
IAC summarizes August 13 ACIP meeting on new recommendation for additional dose of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine for people with moderate to severe immunocompromise
CDC releases 14 updated Vaccine Information Statements; translations in progress
CDC strengthens recommendation for COVID-19 vaccination for people who are or may become pregnant, in light of reassuring safety data for vaccination in all stages of pregnancy
"Use of COVID-19 Vaccines after Reports of Adverse Events among Adult Recipients of Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) and mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna): Update from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, July 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
For National Immunization Awareness Month, use the new "We Can Do This" social media posts and graphics to promote back-to-school vaccinations
Multiple vaccine advocacy groups publish white paper describing challenges that prevent maternal immunization in the United States
IAC Spotlight! IAC’s Immunize.org website offers many useful navigation features
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
IAC updates "Vaccine with Diluents: How to Use Them" handout for healthcare professionals
Vaccine Information Statements
IAC updates "You Must Provide Patients with Vaccine Information Statements (VISs) – It's the Law!" to reflect new VIS version dates
IAC revises "Dates of Current Vaccine Information Statements (VISs)" checklist to reflect new VIS version dates
Featured Resources
National Governors Association Center for Best Practices releases new publication, "State Strategies to Increase COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake in Rural Communities"
IAC’s gateway page "Vaccination and COVID-19" offers a collection of tools from many organizations to sustain routine vaccination services during the pandemic
Organizing a new vaccination program? Use IAC's Vaccinating Adults: A Step-by-Step Guide—free to download by chapter or in its entirety
Encourage others to get vaccinated by ordering IAC's "Me Vacuné…" and "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers, now FREE to all organizations promoting or offering COVID-19 vaccination!
Fall is right around the corner; so is flu season! Stock up on IAC's flu vaccine buttons and stickers for staff and patients.
Notable Publications
"Randomized Trial of a Third Dose of mRNA-1273 Vaccine in Transplant Recipients" published in NEJM
MMWR recap: Reduced risk of reinfection of COVID-19 after vaccination
"Pediatric Immunization Schedule: Best Available Evidence for 2021" published in Clinical Advisor
"Evaluation of mRNA-1273 SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine in Adolescents" published in NEJM
Global News
"The CAPACITI Decision-Support Tool for National Immunization Programs" published in Value in Health
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this upbeat 2003 PSA from Texas Department of Health, a doctor and mother explains why she recommends vaccinations for her own children and patients

Issue 1583: August 17, 2021

Shop IAC for COVID-19 Vaccine Buttons and Stickers, Flu Buttons and Stickers, Record Cards, Pins, and More
IAC's "Me Vacuné…" and “I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine” buttons and stickers available FREE to all organizations promoting or offering COVID-19 vaccination! Available in English and Spanish.
Fall is right around the corner—so is flu season! Stock up on IAC's flu vaccine buttons and stickers for staff and patients.
Order IAC's child, adult, and lifetime immunization record cards—wallet-sized, designed to last!
Great gift idea! IAC's elegantly designed "Vaccines Save Lives" black enamel pins make wonderful holiday gifts or workplace recognitions.
Please "Like" and "Follow" IAC on social media

Issue 1582: August 11, 2021

Top Stories
Step up your back-to-school vaccination efforts with a Week of Action during National Immunization Awareness Month!
Watch the virtual ACIP meeting on August 13; no registration is required
ACOG issues updated advisory unequivocally recommending all pregnant and lactating individuals receive COVID-19 vaccination
"Reduced Risk of Reinfection with SARS-CoV-2 after COVID-19 Vaccination—Kentucky, May–June 2021," published in MMWR
"Effectiveness of COVID-19 Vaccines in Preventing Hospitalization among Adults Aged >65 Years–13 States, COVID-NET, February–April 2021" published in MMWR
American College Health Association organizes joint statement urging end of dangerous restrictions in some states that limit use of COVID-19 control measures
HHS launches second phase of the "HPV VAX NOW" campaign for young adults
IAC urges qualifying healthcare organizations to join 1,153 others on IAC's Influenza Honor Roll for mandatory healthcare worker vaccination. Apply now!
IAC Spotlight! Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on enhancing clinic and practice operations
Vaccines in the news
Featured Resources
Order IAC's child, adult, and lifetime immunization record cards—wallet-sized, designed to last!
Check out IAC's "Me Vacuné…" and "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers in the "Something Great" (the vaccine song) video! Available FREE to all organizations promoting or offering COVID-19 vaccination.
Fall is right around the corner; so is flu season! Stock up on IAC's flu vaccine buttons and stickers for staff and patients.
Vaccinated? Encourage friends by adding IAC's "Me Vacuné…" or "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame.
IAC's website Mass-Vaccination-Resources.org can help you excel at mass vaccination activities
Notable Publications
"Children and COVID-19 Vaccines" published in JAMA Pediatrics
MMWR recap: COVID-19 vaccine safety in adolescents and COVID-19 outbreak associated with large public gatherings
Upcoming Events
Virtual: NFID hosts webinar "#VaxxedForClass: The Importance of Routine Immunizations" on August 17
Virtual: Indiana Immunization Coalition hosts webinar "How Political Partisanship Impacts Vaccination" on September 1; CE available
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this poignant PSA from New Mexico Department of Health, the Costales family asks you to vaccinate your child

Issue 1581: August 4, 2021

Top Stories
August is National Immunization Awareness Month; promote vaccination with helpful resources for all ages
CDC Health Alert Network sends notice of the urgent need to increase COVID-19 vaccination coverage
Fifty-six healthcare societies issue a joint statement in support of COVID-19 vaccine mandates for all workers in health and long-term care
"Outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 Infections, including COVID-19 Vaccine Breakthrough Infections, Associated with Large Public Gatherings—Barnstable County, Massachusetts, July 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
"COVID-19 Vaccine Safety in Adolescents Aged 12–17 Years—United States, December 14, 2020–July 16, 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
"Disparities in COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Health Care Personnel Working in Long-Term Care Facilities, by Job Category—National Healthcare Safety Network, United States, March 2021" published in MMWR
FDA expands Shingrix indication to include immunocompromised people; ACIP recommendations under discussion
Teaching young people about vaccines: reliable resources for instructing children and teens on how vaccines work
New "Vaccination from the Misinformation Virus" documentary airs on PBS stations, featuring IAC expert. Check your local listings to watch.
IAC Spotlight! Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on adult vaccination
Vaccines in the news
Immunize.org Pages and Handouts
These updated IAC educational materials and web pages were released during June and July
Featured Resources
CHOP's Vaccine Education Center debuts a new animation that shows how mRNA vaccines work
Ad Council offers Rural Resource Toolkit to help meet need for access to COVID-19 information
Johns Hopkins University introduces Vira, a vaccine education chatbot, to answer common COVID-19 vaccine questions
It's immunization awareness month; show your status by ordering IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers now available FREE to all organizations promoting or offering COVID-19 vaccination! Available in English and Spanish.
Time to prepare for flu season! Stock up on IAC's flu vaccine buttons and stickers for staff and patients.
Back to school! Check out updated www.Give2MenACWY.org website to increase coverage for the MenACWY booster and other adolescent vaccinations
Notable Publications
CHOP's Vaccine Education Center publishes July issue of Vaccine Update newsletter
"COVID-19 Breakthrough Infections in Vaccinated Health Care Workers" published in NEJM
MMWR recap: SARS-CoV-2 infection in Philadelphia County public school employees following a district-wide vaccination program
Global News
Johns Hopkins University's International Vaccine Access Center introduces "VIEW-hub," an online, interactive, map-based platform for visualizing data on vaccine use and impact
"Progress toward Hepatitis B Control—World Health Organization European Region, 2016–2019" published in MMWR
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this uplifting 1998 PSA from Rotary International, former president Clinton appreciates worldwide collaboration of organizations, governments, and volunteers working to end polio

Issue 1580: July 28, 2021

Top Stories
IAC summarizes July 22 ACIP meeting on COVID-19 vaccine: recommendations re-affirmed after Guillain-Barré syndrome safety review, additional doses for the immunocompromised discussed
July 28: Today is World Hepatitis Day!
August is National Immunization Awareness Month; promote vaccination with helpful resources
Many children are behind on their vaccinations due to the pandemic; communicate the importance of getting back on track with these toolkits and resources
American Hospital Association releases policy statement supporting mandatory COVID-19 vaccination of healthcare personnel
Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society Foundation updates its "Vaccine Education from Training to Practice" program
IAC Spotlight! Review of resources at immunize.org grouped by age cohorts
Journalists interview IAC experts
Vaccines in the news
Featured Resources
FDA offers COVID-19 informational web page in English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese
AIM and NPHIC develop "Immunization Communication Resource Portal" featuring talking points, messages, and materials to support your communication efforts
AAP offers free web course, "HPV Vaccine: When, Why, and How," to motivate healthcare personnel to protect patients against HPV diseases; CME available
IAC's elegantly designed "Vaccines Save Lives" black enamel pins show how much you value vaccinations
Spread the word! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers to those promoting vaccination in hesitant communities! Available in English and Spanish.
Encourage friends to get vaccinated by adding IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame! Available in English and Spanish.
Notable Publications
"SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Public School District Employees following a District-Wide Vaccination Program—Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, March 21, 2021–April 23, 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
"Harnessing Electronic Clinical Data to Report Adult and Prenatal Immunization Quality Measures" published in JAMIA
"Carrying Equity in COVID-19 Vaccination Forward: Guidance Informed by Communities of Color" published by JHU Center for Health Security
"Effectiveness of COVID-19 Vaccines against the B.1.617.2 (Delta) Variant" published in NEJM
Upcoming Events
Hybrid: AIRA 2021 National Meeting to be held in person and virtually on August 3–5 in Portland
Virtual: Immunize Oregon hosts "Northwest Immunization Conference" on August 16–20
Virtual: AAP hosts "2021 AAP Pediatric Infectious Diseases Virtual Course: A Comprehensive Review for Primary and Subspecialty Practitioners," September 11–12; CME available
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this boisterous 1999 PSA from Arkansas Department of Health, we are reminded young kids need routine vaccinations at regular intervals

Issue 1579: July 21, 2021

Top Stories
It's back to school season! Check out updated www.Give2MenACWY.org website to increase coverage for the MenACWY booster and other adolescent vaccinations
U.S. Surgeon General warns American public about threat of health misinformation
August is National Immunization Awareness Month; promote vaccination with CDC resources
IAC Spotlight! Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on vaccine products
FDA licenses pneumococcal 15-valent conjugate vaccine, Vaxneuvance, for adults age 18 years and older
IAC experts called on by news media
Immunization articles in the news
World News
WHO updates position paper on rotavirus vaccines
July 28 is World Hepatitis Day
Featured Resources
Spread the word! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers to those promoting vaccination in hesitant communities! Available in English and Spanish.
It's not too early to prepare for flu season! Stock up on IAC's "FLU VACCINE" buttons and stickers for staff and patients.
MMWR COVID-19 Recap: Vaccination coverage at eight health care organizations, vaccine administration estimates in North Carolina, vaccine acceptability among adolescents and parents of adolescents, and Delta variant outbreak at gymnastics facility
Organizing a new vaccination program? Use IAC's comprehensive Vaccinating Adults: A Step-by-Step Guide—free to download by chapter or in its entirety.
Use IAC's "Vaccines: COVID-19" web page to locate the latest information on COVID-19 vaccines
Journal Articles and Newsletters
"Assessing the Association between Social Gatherings and COVID-19 Risk Using Birthdays" published in JAMA Internal Medicine
Upcoming Meetings
CDC announces additional ACIP meeting on July 22
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this animated 1996 PSA from the Ohio Department of Health, a narrator reminds us how vaccines help children to grow

Issue 1578: July 14, 2021

Top Stories
FDA revises fact sheets for Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine (Johnson & Johnson), adding Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) warning and revising thrombocytopenia warning
CDC announces additional ACIP meeting on July 22
Watch today (July 14): CDC's "Current Issues in Immunization Webinar" on catching up on immunizations during the pandemic; recording will be available afterward
Floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, disasters: 'Tis the season to exercise your emergency plan
CDC and FDA issue joint statement on COVID-19 vaccine booster doses: no need yet, science will determine policy
The 2021 edition of The Vaccine Handbook App has just been launched and is available in free iOS and Android formats, courtesy of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society
IAC Spotlight! Review of resources at Immunize.org focused on vaccine-preventable diseases, one disease at a time
Also today (July 14): NFID's "Updates from June 2021 ACIP Meeting" webinar; recording will be available afterward
IAC's Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll for mandatory healthcare worker vaccination now features 1,153 organizations, including two new facilities
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
IAC Handouts
IAC updates its vaccine storage and handling "Emergency Response Worksheet" for addressing power failures and temperature excursions
IAC updates its handout for parents titled "Vaccinations Are Safe: Explaining Why," outlining the science underpinning public confidence in today's vaccines
Featured Resources
Reminder: Use CDC's resources to help get the word out about catching children up on routine vaccinations
Spread the word! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers to those promoting vaccination in hesitant communities! Available in English and Spanish.
"Shop IAC" on Immunize.org offers many resources: wallet-sized record cards, "Vaccines Save Lives" pins, and flu and COVID-19 buttons and stickers. Order today!
Encourage friends by adding IAC's "Me Vacuné…" or "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame
Journal Articles and Newsletters
"Acceptability of Adolescent COVID-19 Vaccination among Adolescents and Parents of Adolescents—United States, April 15–23, 2021" published in MMWR
"SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617.2 (Delta) Variant COVID-19 Outbreak Associated with a Gymnastics Facility—Oklahoma, April–May 2021" published in MMWR
MMWR Recap: ACIP provides update on use of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines after reports of myocarditis among vaccine recipients
Education and Training
"CDC announces two webinar recordings for healthcare providers who will administer COVID-19 vaccines
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this 2004 PSA from the Nevada Department of Health, immunizations are deemed "priceless"

Issue 1577: July 7, 2021

Top Stories
"Use of mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine after Reports of Myocarditis among Vaccine Recipients: Update from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, June 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
Introducing the next chapter in IAC's leadership: Kelly L. Moore, MD, MPH
CDC offers resources to help get the word out about catching children up on routine vaccinations
CDC and WhatsApp, a multiplatform messaging app, launch "Mi Chat Sobre Vacunas COVID" to help Spanish-speaking communities find information about vaccine locations and get answers to frequently asked questions
Order IAC's free, CDC-supported "Me Vacuné Contra el COVID-19" buttons and stickers to encourage vaccination in Latinx communities. Also available in English.
HHS's COVID-19 Community Corps adds COVID-19 toolkits for LGBTQ+ community, people with disabilities, and faith-based leaders (also available in Spanish) to its library of resources
American Pharmacists Association offers "Vaccine Confident" program to foster communication and understanding about COVID-19 vaccines
Voices for Vaccines releases new podcast on vaccines and health equity with health equity expert Nate Chomilo, MD, FAAP
Johns Hopkins' campaign, "Get the Facts about the Vax," helps people make informed decisions about COVID-19 vaccine
IAC Spotlight! These updated IAC educational materials and web pages were released during May and June
Don't let your colleagues be the last to know. Urge them to subscribe to IAC Express for free.
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
IAC Handouts
IAC updates "Notification of Vaccination Letter Template"
IAC updates both the child and adult versions of 2-page reference table, "Guide to Contraindications and Precautions to Commonly Used Vaccines"
Featured Resources
United States Pharmacopeia releases updated version of its "COVID-19 Vaccine Handling Toolkit" with operational considerations for healthcare personnel
NFID's "Keep Up the Rates" campaign is expanding to address coadministration of COVID-19 vaccines with other vaccines, as well as health equity
Journal Articles and Newsletters
"Safety of Vaccines Used for Routine Immunization in the United States: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" published in Vaccine
Journal retracts article over "distorted conclusions" about COVID-19 vaccine safety
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this engaging 2009 PSA from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, families of all shapes and sizes can become unraveled from the flu

Issue 1576: July 1, 2021

Introducing the Next Chapter in IAC's Immunization Leadership

Issue 1575: June 30, 2021

Top Stories
IAC summarizes the June 23–25 ACIP meeting: myocarditis after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination, dengue vaccine for children in endemic areas, influenza vaccines for the 2021–22 season, rabies vaccine recommendation updates for children, and more
Spread the word! IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers to those promoting vaccination in hesitant communities! Available in English and Spanish.
Happy Canada Day! A summary of immunization information and advocacy in Canada
MMWR Recap: COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Adults and COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage and Intent among Adults Age 18–39 Years
IAC Spotlight! Check out the many adolescent vaccination resources on immunize.org during back-to-school preparation
In all, 537 institutions have achieved a place on IAC's Hepatitis B Birth Dose Honor Roll, including two new honorees. Three previously honored institutions qualify for additional years' honors.
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
IAC Handouts
IAC updates its handout for healthcare professionals titled "Don't Be Guilty of These Preventable Errors in Vaccine Administration!"
Featured Resources
Organizing a new vaccination program? Use IAC's comprehensive Vaccinating Adults: A Step-by-Step Guide—free to download by chapter or in its entirety
Encourage friends to get vaccinated by adding IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame! Available in English and Spanish.
Going fast! Order IAC's laminated version of CDC's 2021 U.S. child/adolescent immunization schedule today! Adult schedules sold out.
Conferences and Meetings
AAP 2021 National Conference and Exhibition scheduled on October 8–12 in Philadelphia and online; registration open
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this 1996 PSA from the Scottish Rite Children's Medical Center in Georgia, a young "John Smoltz" throws vaccine-preventable diseases out of the park

Issue 1574: June 23, 2021

Top Stories
IAC offers FREE "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers to nonprofit and public health organizations! Available in English and Spanish.
IAC updates "Vaccines: COVID-19" web page with important new resources
IAC's L.J Tan and other leaders testify before U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce about legislation to improve immunization access for adults
"Saying Goodbye—and Leaving You with My ‘Top 10' List of Places to Bookmark on Immunize.org"; Dr. Wexler concludes 12 years writing the Technically Speaking column
"COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage and Intent among Adults Aged 18–39 Years—United States, March–May 2021" and "COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Adults—United States, December 14, 2020–May 22, 2021" published in MMWR
"COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage among Pregnant Women during Pregnancy—Eight Integrated Health Care Organizations, United States, December 14, 2020–May 8, 2021" published in MMWR
CDC releases handout titled "Increasing Access to Vaccination Opportunities: COVID-19 Vaccination upon Discharge from Hospitals, Emergency Departments, and Urgent Care Facilities"
IAC Spotlight! IAC's ACIP gateway page on immunize.org provides links to both current and past ACIP recommendations
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
IAC Handouts
IAC updates its popular standing orders for administering zoster vaccine to adults
Featured Resources
Encourage friends to get vaccinated by adding IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame! Available in English and Spanish.
"Shop IAC" on immunize.org offers many resources: wallet-sized record cards, "Vaccines Save Lives" pins, flu and COVID-19 buttons and stickers, and laminated child/adolescent schedules. Order today!
Conferences and Meetings
Watch the virtual ACIP meeting June 23–25; no registration is required
Journal Articles and Newsletters
CHOP's Vaccine Education Center publishes June issue of Vaccine Update newsletter
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this adorable 1996 PSA from the Scottish Rite Children's Medical Center in Georgia, a young "Evander Holyfield" knocks out vaccine-preventable diseases

Issue 1573: June 16, 2021

Top Stories
Fourteen states have surpassed 70%! Will yours? COVID-19 Vaccine National Month of Action heats up!
Vaxelis hexavalent pediatric vaccine is now available for order
FDA licenses pneumococcal 20-valent conjugate vaccine, Prevnar 20, for adults age 18 years and older
CDC announces emergency virtual meeting of ACIP on June 18 to discuss myocarditis after COVID-19 mRNA vaccines; you can watch live
"Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Administration of Selected Routine Childhood and Adolescent Vaccinations—10 U.S. Jurisdictions, March–September 2020" published in MMWR
CDC COVID-19 study shows mRNA vaccines reduce the risk of infection by 91% for fully vaccinated people
Want to let IAC's retiring founder, Dr. Deborah L. Wexler, know how useful IAC's resources have been to you? Drop us a line!
IAC Spotlight! "Package Inserts and FDA Product Approvals" gateway page on immunize.org offers valuable resources for clinics that administer vaccines
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
IAC Handouts
IAC updates 1-page reference table "Administering Vaccines: Dose, Route, Site, and Needle Size"
World News
"Progress toward Rubella Elimination—World Health Organization European Region, 2005–2019" published in MMWR
Featured Resources
United Methodists Health Ministry Fund, based in Kansas, releases "Faith in Vaccines" sermon guide and toolkit
Resolve to Save Lives initiative describes 15 practices to improve vaccination rates in hard-to-reach U.S. communities
Order IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers, available in English and Spanish!
Encourage friends to get vaccinated by adding IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame! Available in English and Spanish.
Journal Articles and Newsletters
"Decreases in COVID-19 Cases, Emergency Department Visits, Hospital Admissions, and Deaths among Older Adults following the Introduction of COVID-19 Vaccine—United States, September 6, 2020–May 1, 2021" published in MMWR
MMWR recap: CDC publishes hospitalization rates of adolescents age 12–17 years with COVID-19; previously issued as an MMWR Early Release
"Vaccine Breakthrough Infections with SARS-CoV-2 Variants" published in NEJM
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this cute 2007 PSA from HHS, parents drop everything to get their children vaccinated against flu

Issue 1572: June 9, 2021

Top Stories
June is National Month of Action: a sprint to vaccinate Americans against COVID-19 by the 4th of July
"Hospitalization of Adolescents Aged 12–17 Years with Laboratory-Confirmed COVID-19—COVID-NET, 14 States, March 1, 2020–April 24, 2021" published in MMWR
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality publishes "Safety of Vaccines Used for Routine Immunization in the United States: An Update"
IAC Spotlight! IAC's Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) gateway page has VISs in 49 languages
A tribute to IAC founder Deborah L. Wexler, MD, with our thanks!
Unity Consortium launches "Don't Wait. Vaccinate." campaign to help healthcare providers catch up adolescents and young adults on missed immunizations
MMWR recap: CDC publishes COVID-19 vaccination coverage trends by social vulnerability and urbanicity on June 4; previously issued as an MMWR Early Release
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
Featured Resources
Going fast! Order IAC's laminated version of CDC's 2021 U.S. child/adolescent immunization schedule today! Adult schedules sold out.
Father's Day is June 20. Order IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and "Vaccines Save Lives" pins for fathers who value prevention
Vaccinated against COVID-19? Encourage friends to follow your lead by adding IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame! Available in English and Spanish.
Education and Training
NILE offers webinar titled "Working with the Successes of HPV Vaccine in a Time of Rising Vaccine Hesitancy" on June 16
NFID offers webinar "COVID-19 Communications: Promoting Adolescent Vaccination" on June 30, CME available
Conferences and Meetings
North Dakota State University's Center for Immunization Research and Education hosts "Transcending COVID-19 Vaccine Barriers: Strategies to Increase Confidence and Acceptance" virtual conference on June 16–17
Watch the virtual ACIP meeting June 23–25; no registration is required
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this hilarious 2009 PSA from the Government of South Australia, sneezes and accompanying secretions are set to classical music

Issue 1571: June 8, 2021

IAC Express Special Edition - Ask the Experts: Issue 1,571
June 8, 2021
As an additional service to IAC Express readers, we periodically publish special editions such as this one, providing you with new and updated Ask the Experts questions and answers from IAC experts. This issue includes selected Q&As about recent updates to CDC recommendations for the use of COVID-19 vaccines.
You can find all of these questions and answers, plus more than a thousand others about vaccines and vaccine administration, on our "Ask the Experts" gateway page at www.immunize.org/askexperts.
IAC's team of experts includes Kelly L. Moore, MD, MPH (team lead); Carolyn B. Bridges, MD, FACP; William L. Atkinson, MD, MPH; and Deborah L. Wexler, MD.
More Questions about COVID-19 Vaccines
Q: Where can I find current COVID-19 vaccine recommendations?
Q: What do we know about the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID vaccine effectiveness and side effects in children and young teens in the 12- to 15-year-old age group?
Q: Can COVID-19 vaccination lead to fertility problems?
Q: Has CDC provided clinical guidance on what to do if an error occurs while administering COVID-19 vaccinations?
Q: We have a patient who was fully vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine not authorized in the U.S. Do we need to revaccinate?
Q: We have a patient who was partially vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine not authorized for use in the U.S. What should we do?
Q: Can COVID-19 vaccine recipients be given other vaccines at the same visit?
Q: A vaccine recipient reported experiencing a red, itchy, swollen patch of skin that developed several days after vaccination around the injection site of her first COVID-19 vaccine dose. It resolved after a few days. Is this a contraindication? Should this alter our plans for dose two?
Q: Patients concerned about the risk of allergic reaction or side effects following COVID-19 vaccination are asking if they should take acetaminophen, aspirin, and/or antihistamines before receiving COVID-19 vaccination. What does CDC advise?
Q: What is the thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome, called TTS, associated with the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine (Johnson & Johnson)?
Q: What are the symptoms of TTS and where can I learn more about treatment?
Q: My patient has a history of deep venous thrombosis (DVTs). Is that a precaution or contraindication to vaccination with the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine?
Q: I have both mRNA and Janssen vaccines available. Should I avoid offering the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine to my younger female patients?
Q: Where can I find details about the storage and handling of COVID-19 vaccines?
Q: I heard the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine storage requirements changed in May 2021. Where can I get more information?

Issue 1570: June 2, 2021

Top Stories
CDC posts clinical considerations on myocarditis and pericarditis after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination
"COVID-19 Vaccine Breakthrough Infections Reported to CDC—U.S., January 1–April 20, 2021" published in MMWR
"Patterns in COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage, by Social Vulnerability and Urbanicity—United States, December 14, 2020–May 1, 2021" published in MMWR
IAC updates Ask the Experts: COVID-19 web page to answer questions about latest ACIP recommendations and revised CDC clinical considerations
"Be Sure You Know the Anatomical Landmarks for Administering Intramuscular Injections in the Arm," Dr. Wexler's Technically Speaking monthly column, available on immunize.org
Stay current! With all the changes in COVID-19 vaccination in the last few months, make sure you are using the most recent CDC and FDA document versions
Voices for Vaccines releases new podcast, "Kids and COVID-19 Vaccines," with ACIP liaison Patsy Stinchfield, MS, CPNP
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
Celebrating the legacy of Deborah L. Wexler, MD
Featured Resources
Hepatitis B Foundation launches first global registry of discrimination against people living with hepatitis B
Families Against COVID-19 Initiative posts a pro-vaccine video showing perspective of families who lost a loved one to a vaccine-preventable disease
Check out the www.Give2MenACWY.org website to increase rates of MenACWY booster and other adolescent vaccinations
Father's Day is June 20. Order IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers for fathers who value prevention
Vaccinated against COVID-19? Encourage friends to follow your lead by adding IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame!
Journal Articles and Newsletters
CHOP's Vaccine Education Center publishes May issue of Vaccine Update newsletter
"Factors Associated with Racial/Ethnic Group-Based Medical Mistrust and Perspectives on COVID-19 Vaccine Trial Participation and Vaccine Uptake in the U.S." published in JAMA
"Effect of Training Pediatric Clinicians in Human Papillomavirus Communication Strategies on Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Rates" published in JAMA Pediatrics
Education and Training
NFID offers webinar "Strategies for Increasing Routine Adult Vaccination Rates" on June 9, CME available
New Jersey Immunization Network will conduct virtual 2021 Adult Immunization Conference June 14–15, CME available
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this informative 2004 PSA from Utah Department of Health, mom lets dad know that if insurance doesn't cover vaccines, then the Vaccines For Children program can help

Issue 1569: June 1, 2021

Never a Dull Moment: A Celebration of the Legacy of Deborah L. Wexler, MD

Issue 1568: May 26, 2021

Top Stories
FDA authorizes up to 31 days refrigerator storage of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine before dilution
CDC calls for VAERS reporting of cases of myocarditis or pericarditis after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination
CDC releases Pediatric Healthcare Professionals COVID-19 Vaccination Toolkit
CDC publishes "Disparities in COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage between Urban and Rural Counties—United States, December 14, 2020–April 10, 2021" in MMWR
Center for Strategic and International Studies and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine publish "Why Vaccine Confidence Matters to National Security"
Vaccinate Your Family launches "Don't Skip" campaign featuring Gabrielle Union-Wade
CDC updates "Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People"
Expanding your COVID-19 vaccination efforts to 12–15-year-olds? Purchase IAC's brightly colored COVID-19 vaccine stickers and buttons to give out in offices, schools, and vaccination sites
IAC Spotlight! Looking for the most frequently visited web pages on immunize.org? IAC's "Favorites" tab atop each web page brings you to 18 of the most popular gateway pages on IAC's website
MMWR Recap: CDC publishes ACIP recommendations for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine in 12–15-year-olds and estimates on vaccineeffectiveness on May 19; previously issued as MMWR Early Releases
IAC's Hepatitis B Birth Dose Honor Roll now includes 535 hospitals, including three new birthing institutions; three previously honored institutions qualify for additional years' honors
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
Featured Resources
After 12 years, IAC's "Video of the Week" series is wrapping up. Watch IAC's final pick, "Protect Tomorrow," from AAP. Hear elders' poignant remembrances about how vaccine-preventable diseases affected their lives
CDC offers COVID-19 Science Update weekly report series to help staff stay up to date on the latest COVID-19 research
Going fast! Order IAC's laminated version of CDC's 2021 U.S. child/adolescent immunization schedule today! Adult schedules sold out.
IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame is available in English and Spanish
Journal Articles and Newsletters
Article in JAMA Internal Medicine reports no association detected for facial paralysis and mRNA COVID-19 vaccines
Education and Training
CDC posts on-demand webinar recording for clinicians titled "What Clinicians Need to Know About Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccination of Adolescents"
Conferences and Meetings
National HPV Vaccination Roundtable hosts virtual 2021 National Meeting on June 9–10; register today!
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this 2001 PSA from the Chicago Department of Public Health, parents are urged to "Check the Facts" to address misconceptions about vaccination

Issue 1567: May 19, 2021

Top Stories
"The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices' Interim Recommendation for Use of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine in Adolescents Aged 12–15 Years—United States, May 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
CDC updates its clinical considerations for use of COVID-19 vaccines currently authorized in the United States
IAC summarizes May 12 ACIP emergency meeting on COVID-19 vaccine: recommendations expanded to age 12 and older and safety data reviewed
CDC releases new and updated resources to support COVID-19 vaccination
CDC recognizes the contributions of Dr. Nancy Messonnier during her 25-year career at CDC; Dr. Sam Posner now acting director, NCIRD
New CDC COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness study in health workers shows mRNA vaccines are 94% effective
Expanding your COVID-19 vaccination efforts to 12–15-year-olds? Purchase IAC's brightly colored COVID-19 vaccine stickers and buttons to give out in offices, schools, and mass vaccination sites
"Demographic and Social Factors Associated with COVID-19 Vaccination Initiation among Adults Aged >65 Years—United States, December 14, 2020–April 10, 2021" published in MMWR
"Surveillance of Vaccination Coverage among Adult Populations—United States, 2018" published in MMWR Surveillance Summaries
American College Health Association recommends COVID-19 vaccination requirements for all on-campus college students this fall
IAC Spotlight! IAC's "Standing Orders Templates for Administering Vaccines" gateway page also provides links to CDC's standing orders for use of  COVID-19 vaccines
IAC's Influenza Vaccination Honor Roll for mandatory healthcare worker vaccination now features 1,151 organizations, including three new healthcare organizations
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
Featured Resources
In this week's "Video of the Week" titled "Worship," viewers are reminded that getting back to the moments we miss starts with getting good information
Still available! Order IAC's laminated version of CDC's 2021 U.S. child/adolescent immunization schedule today! Adult schedules sold out.
IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame is available in English and Spanish
IAC's "History through Film" web page features public television documentary about 30 years of IAC titled Protecting Health: Saving Lives. Please share.
Education and Training
Medscape Education Family Medicine offers "Expert Perspective Series: Tips for Addressing Patients FAQs about COVID-19 Vaccines" activity series; CE available
CommuniVax hosts webinar "Working with Faith-Based and Community-Based Organizations for a More Equitable COVID-19 Vaccination Campaign" on May 20
North Carolina Family Medicine Today releases podcast about the importance of catching patients up on vaccinations missed during the coronavirus pandemic
Conferences and Meetings
FDA holds Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) virtual meeting June 10 to discuss pediatric use of COVID-19 vaccines
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this vintage 1974 PSA from U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, singer Dionne Warwick explains the importance of having your child vaccinated against "both kinds of measles," especially when you have a baby on the way

Issue 1566: May 12, 2021

Top Stories
FDA expands EUA for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for ages 12–15 years; ACIP convenes today, May 12, to discuss
ACIP discussed rabies vaccine and dengue vaccine on May 5; IAC summarizes meeting
CDC updates "FAQs for Private and Public Healthcare Providers about Implementing the CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Program in Provider Practices"
Association of Immunization Managers releases "COVID-19 Vaccine Communication Resources"
Vaccines.gov helps individuals find nearby COVID-19 vaccination sites using web and text options; available in English and Spanish
MMWR Recap: CDC publishes COVID-19 vaccine updates on safety monitoring, anxiety-related adverse events, and effectiveness studies on May 7; previously issued as MMWR Early Releases
Sabin-Aspen Vaccine Science and Policy Group releases its newest meeting report, "Powering Vaccine R&D: Opportunities for Transformation"
CDC publishes "Clinical Guidelines for Diagnosis and Treatment of Botulism, 2021" in MMWR, describing use of botulinum antitoxin
CDC's Dr. Anne Schuchat named 2021 Service to America Medal Finalist; you can vote daily for your favorite finalist
Celebrate vaccination progress with patients and staff! Order IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons—stickers available, too.
Ready to ship! Order IAC's laminated version of CDC's 2021 immunization schedule today!
IAC Spotlight! Our IAC Image Library leads you to hundreds of disease photos to educate staff and patients about the importance of vaccination
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
World News
CDC and WHO report on progress toward worldwide polio eradication in MMWR and Weekly Epidemiological Record, respectively
Featured Resources
In IAC's "Video of the Week," CDC uses American Sign Language to share what to expect when someone gets vaccinated against COVID-19
CHOP's VEC expands its My COVID-19 Vaccine Experience video series to include racially and ethnically diverse colleagues, and young adults
Now available in Spanish! IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame
Use IAC's expanded "Repository of Resources for Maintaining Immunization during the COVID-19 Pandemic" for catch-up initiatives
Education and Training
National Academy of Medicine will offer "International Workshop on COVID-19 Lessons to Inform Pandemic Influenza Response" on May 18, 21, and 25
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this jaunty PSA from 2001 by the Phoenix Fire Department, Diamondback left fielder Luis Gonzalez hits a home run promoting childhood vaccinations, sharing why he and his wife vaccinated their triplets

Issue 1565: May 11, 2021

"I GOT MY COVID-19 VACCINE" BUTTONS, STICKERS, AND A SPANISH-LANGUAGE FACEBOOK PROFILE PHOTO FRAME!

NEW! Order IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers
Now available in Spanish! IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame

Issue 1564: May 5, 2021

Top Stories
ACIP meets today, May 5, to discuss rabies and dengue vaccines; watch live or listen via telephone
"Updated Recommendations from the ACIP for Use of Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 Vaccine after Reports of Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome among Vaccine Recipients—United States, April 2021" published in MMWR
CDC updates "Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines Currently Authorized in the United States" on April 27
"Safety Monitoring of the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 Vaccine—United States, March–April 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
CDC updates public health recommendations for fully vaccinated people
"Anxiety-Related Adverse Event Clusters after Janssen COVID-19 Vaccination—Five U.S. Mass Vaccination Sites, April 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
"Effectiveness of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna Vaccines against COVID-19 among Hospitalized Adults Aged >65 Years—United States, January–March 2021" published in MMWR Early Release
IAC Spotlight! These updated IAC educational materials and web pages were released during March and April
Wonderful gift for Mother's and Father's Days! Order IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons—stickers available, too
Now available in Spanish! IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame
CHOP's VEC expands its "My COVID-19 Vaccine Experience" video series to include eight new Spanish-language videos
Use these Canadian and Mexican resources when you need COVID-19 vaccine information from neighboring countries
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
Featured Resources
CDC's "Choosing Safer Activities" infographic for vaccinated and unvaccinated people is now available in five languages
In IAC's "Video of the Week," former presidents and first ladies get their COVID-19 vaccines and discuss how being vaccinated will get us back to loved ones
AAP posts new, free vaccination infographics for social media
AAP offers a Childhood Immunization Flipchart to aid healthcare providers when talking with parents. Request copies today!
Check out the www.Give2MenACWY.org website to enhance your efforts at increasing rates of MenACWY booster and other adolescent vaccinations
IAC's "History through Film" web page features public television documentary about 30 years of IAC titled Protecting Health: Saving Lives. Please share.
Journal Articles and Newsletters
"BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine in a Nationwide Mass Vaccination Setting" published in JAMA
"Health Outcomes in Young Children following Pertussis Vaccination during Pregnancy" published in Pediatrics
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this hope-filled PSA from 2006 by Every Child By Two, Dr. Walter Orenstein, former assistant surgeon general, explains that immunizations save lives

Issue 1563: April 28, 2021

Top Stories
CDC and FDA adopt ACIP recommendation to lift pause on Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine (Johnson & Johnson); CDC updates clinical guidance
"Postvaccination SARS-CoV-2 Infections among Skilled Nursing Facility Residents and Staff Members—Chicago, Illinois, December 2020–March 2021" published in MMWR
"COVID-19 Outbreak Associated with a SARS-CoV-2 R.1 Lineage Variant in a Skilled Nursing Facility after Vaccination Program—Kentucky, March 2021" published in MMWR
Institute for Safe Medication Practices publishes Medication Safety Alert outlining frequently reported COVID-19 vaccination errors
New! Order IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers
60 U.S. hospitals team up to promote COVID-19 vaccination in "Get the Vaccine to Save Lives" campaign
It's National Infant Immunization Week! Use CDC's 2021 digital media toolkit to spread the word.
The Vaccine Makers Project of the Vaccine Education Center at CHOP invites essays from students in grades 6 through 12 for 2021 Dr. Maurice Hilleman essay contest
Voices for Vaccines releases new podcast with Chelsea Clinton to talk about her work on global health and immunization issues
Ready to ship! Order IAC's laminated versions of CDC's 2021 immunization schedules today!
IAC Spotlight! IAC's "Mandates and Exemptions" gateway page compiles information about state mandates on immunization and vaccine-preventable diseases
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
Featured Resources
In IAC's "Video of the Week," a wise grandmother convinces her family to get vaccinated against COVID-19
Vaccinated against COVID-19? Encourage friends to follow your lead by adding IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame!
IAC's MenB Vaccination Honor Roll adds three new colleges that protect their students
IAC's website Mass-Vaccination-Resources.org can help you excel at mass vaccination clinics
Use IAC's expanded "Repository of Resources for Maintaining Immunization during the COVID-19 Pandemic" for catch-up initiatives
Journal Articles and Newsletters
CHOP's Vaccine Education Center publishes April issue of Vaccine Update newsletter
"Effectiveness of Influenza Vaccination in Preventing Hospitalisation Due to Influenza in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" published in Clinical Infectious Diseases
"Preliminary Findings of mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine Safety in Pregnant Persons" published in New England Journal of Medicine
Education and Training
CDC offers webinar archive for clinicians titled "Johnson & Johnson/Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine and Thrombosis with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS): Update for Clinicians"
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine host "COVID-19 Vaccines: Building Confidence & Explaining Efficacy" webinar on May 4 at 3:00 p.m. (ET)
Indiana Immunization Coalition hosts "COVID-19 Vaccines: Considerations in Practice" webinar featuring Dr. Samina Bhumbra on May 20 at 3:00 p.m. (ET); CE available
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this somber PSA from 1999 by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, vaccine-preventable diseases are contrasted with extinct animals

Issue 1562: April 22, 2021

"I GOT MY COVID-19 VACCINE" BUTTONS, STICKERS, AND FACEBOOK PROFILE PHOTO FRAME FROM IAC!
NEW! Order IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers
Vaccinated against COVID-19? Encourage your friends to follow your lead by adding IAC’s "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame!

Issue 1561: April 21, 2021

Top Stories
ACIP discusses safety of Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine (Johnson & Johnson); recommendations for clinicians issued by CDC
New! Order IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" buttons and stickers
Reminder: National Infant Immunization Week is April 24–May 1; prepare using CDC's 2021 digital media toolkit
World Immunization Week is the last week of April; this year's theme is "Vaccines Bring Us Closer"
AAP launches new PSA urging parents to get their children caught up on all vaccinations
AAP announces that 2021–22 influenza vaccination guidance remains unchanged from last season
Licensed yellow fever vaccine is again available for purchase in the U.S.; CDC updates Health Information for International Travel ("The Yellow Book") accordingly
National Immigration Law Center posts "Answers to Common Questions about Immigrants' Access to the COVID-19 Vaccines"
Fifteen colleges and universities announce they will require COVID-19 vaccination for staff and students this fall. Do you know of others?
Ready to ship! Order IAC's laminated versions of CDC's 2021 immunization schedules today!
IAC Spotlight! IAC's recently updated Vaccine Timeline web page features historic dates and events related to vaccines and immunization
IAC experts called on by news media
Not-to-miss immunization articles in the news
Featured Resources
In IAC's "Video of the Week," California's VFC Program shares helpful information on intramuscular injections for adults
Vaccinated against COVID-19? Encourage friends to follow your lead by adding IAC's "I Got My COVID-19 Vaccine" Facebook profile photo frame!
Organizing a new vaccination program? Use IAC's comprehensive Vaccinating Adults: A Step-by-Step Guide—free to download by chapter or in its entirety (142 pages)
Journal Articles and Newsletters
"Differences in Administration of Influenza Vaccine to Elderly Adults by Physician Sex, 2006–2016" published in JAMA Internal Medicine
"SARS-CoV-2–Specific Antibodies in Breast Milk after COVID-19 Vaccination of Breastfeeding Women" published in JAMA
"Progress in Immunization Safety Monitoring—Worldwide, 2010–2019" published in MMWR
Education and Training
Immunize Colorado hosts "The Impact of Climate Change on Vaccine-Preventable Diseases" webinar on May 5 at 12:00 p.m. (ET)
Unity Consortium to offer "The Imperative to Vaccinate Adolescents and Young Adults Now" discussion, moderated by Chelsea Clinton, on May 6 at 12:00 p.m. (ET); IAC's L.J Tan to serve as a panelist
Conferences and Meetings
AIRA 2021 National Meeting scheduled on August 3–5 in Portland and online; registration open; content submissions due by May 16
Immunization PSAs from the Archive
In this fun, animated PSA from the California Department of Health Services in 1999, "California Kids" are urged to get their adolescent vaccines

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