One month delay in FDA Release of this season’s Flu Vaccine Every year, the FDA is responsible for the analysis, review and release of every lot of Influenza Vaccine submitted by each manufacturer. This review must be completed to ensure that their product meets the necessary standards required to safely combat the flue virus. With the extensive review process, this year according to the manufacturer’s the FDA is running approximately 3-4 weeks behind schedule, which has affected the timing and release of approved flue vaccine lots to the manufacturers. With the FDA’s slower than expected release of flue vaccines, fewer approved vaccine lots have been released from the manufacturer’s, which is causing a delay in orders. We understand the importance of implementing you vaccination programs but due to the unpredictability of timing this situation, the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends to schedule immunization programs toward the end of October. Be assured that we will keep you informed and as soon as our vaccines are delivered we will send your orders.
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GET SMART ABOUT ANTIBIOTICS All staff should know the basics about Antibiotic Stewardship Program in your facility. This is not limited to nursing staff, but must include housekeeping, administration, activities and dietary. Antibiotics are lifesaving drugs that can help fend off bacterial infection, but you can have too much of a good thing. Inappropriate use of antibiotics can expose patients to unwanted risks of complications, such as Clostridium difficile (diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever) or a serious allergic reaction. Overuse can also cause antibiotic resistance, meaning your body can become drug resistant to prescription treatment. In new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) hospitals continue to use powerful antibiotics to fight infections, and bacteria grow increasingly immune to treatment. The study found that 55% of patients discharged received at least one dose of antibiotic during their hospital stay. Federal regulation requires nursing homes to have an Antibiotic Stewardship Program and a nurse dedicated to the prevention and control of infections. The CDC website has excellent nursing home specific tools and information on Antibiotic Stewardship. A good first step is the Checklist found at http://www.cdc.gov/longtermcare/pdfs/core-elements-antibiotic-stewardship-checklist.pdf
