Immunization News ArchiveNovel H1N1 Influenza: Where to Get the Latest Updates The Bureau of Immunization provides links to information regarding the novel H1N1 influenza vaccine and recommendations for vaccination. (Novel H1N1 Influenza Vaccine) Novel H1N1 influenza information specific to Florida is available at the Department of Health’s novel H1N1 influenza website at www.MyFluSafety.com. For complete information on novel H1N1 influenza visit www.cdc.gov/h1n1 and www.flu.gov. IMPORTANT: Non-Safety-Related Voluntary Recall of Sanofi Pasteur Lot Numbers for H1N1 Vaccine in Pre-Filled SyringesFebruary 2, 2010 -- The Bureau of Immunization is forwarding this Health Alert Network Update titled Non-Safety-Related Voluntary Recall of Unused Doses from Certain Lots of Sanofi Pasteur H1N1 Vaccine in Pre-Filled Syringes. (Sanofi Pasteur Recall) Interim Immunization Recommendations for Evacuees from HaitiJanuary 28, 2010 -- The Bureau of Immunization would like to provide the following information in regards to immunizing evacuees from Haiti. Children and adults arriving without immunization records, should be considered susceptible and be provided the following age-appropriate immunizations: measles-mumps-rubella, polio, tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, varicella, Haemophilus influenzae type B, pneumococcal conjugate, influenza, meningitis, rotavirus, and hepatitis A and B, in addition to any other vaccinations against vaccine-preventable diseases, as recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Repatriated citizens from Haiti are citizens of the U.S., and their dependents, who have returned to the U.S. due to the earthquake in Haiti. These citizens may be homeless upon entering Florida. If a child is homeless, as defined in Section 1003.01, Florida Statutes, a temporary exemption may be issued by an authorized school official for a period not to exceed 30 days, to allow adequate time to access healthcare resources for immunization services. These children are required to receive immunizations within the first 30 days of school entry. Children who meet the following definitions may be granted humanitarian parole status and placed with their adoptive parents or prospective adoptive parents:
These children are required to receive immunizations prior to school entry. A child who has received as many immunizations as are medically indicated at this time, and is in the process of completing necessary immunizations, may attend kindergarten through 12th grade only if he/she presents a Florida Certification of Immunization (DH 680) with appropriate Temporary Medical Exemption (TME). Under applicable laws, unaccompanied minors entering the country without a parent or legal guardian are subject to special procedures regarding their custody and care. The Department of Homeland Security coordinates with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Refugee Resettlement on these unaccompanied minor cases. To promote high levels of protection against vaccine-preventable diseases and provide immunizations as quickly as possible to these children, it is recommended that serology testing not be considered an option to determine immunity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) websites, General Recommendations on Immunizations and Recommended Immunization Schedules, provide specific immunization recommendations. Please note: Immunizations should be documented in the Florida State Health Online Tracking System (Florida SHOTS™). Additionally, documentation of immunizations (Florida Department of Health Immunization Record DH 686) should be provided to the patient or appropriate guardian. This is vital, as the evacuees may relocate, and documentation of these immunizations should be available. Information for ordering the DH 686 is available on the bureau's publications website. Children attending childcare facilities, family daycare or school (K-12), will need to provide proof of immunizations, Florida Certification of Immunization (DH 680), with appropriate TME date for follow-up. The School Guidelines can be accessed at http://www.immunizeflorida.org/schoolguide.pdf. The bureau has Baby Shots and School Shots brochures and a 2009/2010 School Requirements flyer in Haitian/Creole. These publications are available on the bureau's publications website. The Vaccines for Children Program will provide school-required vaccines for children through 18 years of age. Additionally, immunizations are available through the Refugee Health Program for adults from Haiti who meet their program eligibility. To find Refugee Health Program eligibility information and county health department contact information, go to http://www.doh.state.fl.us/disease_ctrl/refugee/index.html or call 850-245-4350. Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule --- United States, 2010January 19, 2010 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce the release of the Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule --- United States, 2010, by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The annual recommended immunization schedule for adults in the United States for 2010 is approved by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American College of Physicians. They were published online in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR January 15, 2010 / 59(01);1-4), as Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule --- United States, 2010. The changes for 2010 are presented below:
The schedule can be accessed in the original document at www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5901a5.htm, or via the CDC's adult immunization schedule webpage at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/schedules/adult-schedule.htm. Vaccines for Children Program Provider Handbook Available on CDPlease Note: Under Florida law, email addresses are public records. If you do not want your email address released in response to a public records request, do not send electronic mail to this entity. Instead, contact this office by phone or in writing. January 19, 2010 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce the current Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program Provider Handbook is now available on CD. To request a copy, please contact the VFC Program by email at FloridaVFC@doh.state.fl.us, or by calling 800-483-1543. ATTENTION: MedImmune Shortens Shelf Life on 12 lots of H1N1 Intranasal VaccineJanuary 11, 2010 -- The Bureau of immunization, as part of our commitment to our partners and our customers, brings to your attention the following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) information concerning the adjustment of the shelf life of specific lot numbers of Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccine Live, Intranasal. Please be aware that based on ongoing stability testing, MedImmune has shortened the shelf life of 12 lots of H1N1 vaccine from 18 weeks to 16 weeks. These 12 lots were originally labeled with expiration dates from January 29 through February 22, 2010. For simplicity, the manufacturer has changed the expiration date on all 12 lots to January 15, 2010. The lot numbers for these 12 lots are between 500778P and 500799P (for specific lot numbers, please reference the MedImmune Letter to Distributors and Health Care Providers). Approximately 2.9 million doses of H1N1 vaccine from these lots have been shipped out. Any provider that received these lots directly from McKesson should have received a notice on Friday, January 8, 2010 explaining the change in expiration date and providing instructions on what to do with unused H1N1 vaccine doses in these lots after January 15, 2010. At this point, it is not anticipated that the expiration dates on other lots (i.e., 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine lots 500800P and higher) will need to be changed. On Monday, January 11, 2010, the CDC will distribute lists of providers in each jurisdiction who received H1N1 vaccine from these lots. Please account for any wasted novel H1N1 vaccine using the Novel H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Waste Form. Recommended Immunization Schedules for Persons Aged 0 Through 18 Years --- United States, 2010January 8, 2010 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce the release of the Recommended Immunization Schedules for Persons Aged 0 Through 18 Years --- United States, 2010, by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The annual recommended immunization schedules for children and adolescents in the United States for 2010 were approved by the the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Academy of Family Physicians. They were published online in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR January 8, 2010 / 58(51&52);1-4), as Recommended Immunization Schedules for Persons Aged 0 Through 18 Years --- United States, 2010. The text of the release is presented below: The ACIP annually publishes an immunization schedule for persons 0 through 18 years of age that summarizes recommendations for currently licensed vaccines for children 18 years of age and younger and includes recommendations in effect as of December 15, 2009. Changes to the previous schedule include the following:
The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act requires that healthcare providers provide parents or patients with copies of Vaccine Information Statements before administering each dose of the vaccines listed in the schedules. Additional information is available from your county health department and from the CDC at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/default.htm. Detailed recommendations for using vaccines are available from the ACIP statements at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/acip-list.htm, and the 2009 Red Book. Guidance regarding the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System form is available at www.vaers.hhs.gov or by telephone, 800-822-7967. The Schedules can be accessed via the CDC main immunization schedule webpage at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/schedules/child-schedule.htm#printable. Preteen Vaccine Week 2010 Preteen Vaccine Week promotes the preteen healthcare provider visit and immunizations for 11- and 12-year-olds that can protect them against diseases. (Preteen Vaccine Week 2010 ) National Influenza Vaccination WeekJanuary 10-16, 2010
Women's Health: Take Action During Cervical Cancer Awareness MonthDecember 14, 2009 -- January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. You play an important role in ensuring that your patients have the facts about cervical cancer, and that they are doing everything they can to help protect themselves. Each year in the U.S., more than 11,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer.* Approximately 30 women each day need to tell their families that they have the disease. Cervical cancer is caused by certain types of a virus—human papillomavirus (HPV). Because HPV often has no signs or symptoms, many people don't know they have it. For most people, HPV clears on its own. But for some women who don't clear certain types of the virus, cervical cancer can develop. And there is no way to predict who will or won't clear the virus. Make sure your patients know that there are important steps they can take to help protect themselves by getting the HPV vaccine. While we know you are working hard to protect your patients against cervical cancer throughout the year, January provides the perfect opportunity to reach out and talk to them about this disease and what they can do to help prevent it. You may wish to highlight issues related to cervical cancer, human papillomavirus (HPV) disease, and the importance of the HPV vaccine. More information can be found at the National Cervical Cancer Coalition website at www.nccc-online.org/awareness.html. * American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2008. Atlanta, GA: American Cancer Society; 2008. IMPORTANT: Non-Safety Related Voluntary Recall of Specific Lots of Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccine Live, IntranasalDecember 23, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization is forwarding this important vaccine recall information to our immunization partners. Please read the following information and guidance carefully. (Medimune Recall) IMPORTANT: Voluntary Recall of Sanofi Pasteur H1N1 Vaccine Lot NumbersDecember 16, 2009 -- Sanofi Pasteur, Inc., has notified the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that routine testing of its pediatric H1N1 2009 monovalent vaccine in 0.25 ml syringes in four identified lots have been identified with lower antigen content than the specification limit. (H1N1 Recall) Updated: H1N1 Vaccine - Return CommunicationDecember 22, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to bring the following updated guidance document to the attention of our partners. (H1N1 Return Communication) Vaccines for Children Resolution No. 010/09-1 - Human Papillomavirus VaccineDecember 11, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce the release of Vaccines for Children (VFC) Resolution No. 010/09-1 for vaccines to prevent human papillomavirus vaccine. Resolution 6/08-2 is repealed and replaced. Resolution No. 010/09-1 was adopted and effective on October 21, 2009. The purpose of Resolution 010/09-1 is to:
Recommended dosage for the bivalent HPV vaccine can be found in the package insert available at http://www.fda.gov/BiologicsBloodVaccines/Vaccines/ApprovedProducts/UCM093833. Recommended dosage for the quadrivalent HPV vaccine can be found in the package insert available at http://www.fda.gov/BiologicsBloodVaccines/Vaccines/ApprovedProducts/UCM093833. The resolution is available online at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/vfc/downloads/resolutions/1009hpv-508.pdf. Please Note: The bivalent HPV vaccine is currently not available, but VFC Program staff will inform you as soon as it becomes available for ordering. Update on Expanded Use of CSL H1N1 VaccineDecember 11, 2009 -- This is updated information on the expanded use of CSL's H1N1 vaccine to persons 6 months of age and older. (CSL Update) National Handwashing Awareness WeekDecember 6-12, 2009 is designated as National Handwashing Awareness Week, to decrease the spread of infectious diseases by encouraging individuals to educate and help protect their communities. Hand awareness is more than handwashing alone – it includes properly covering coughs or sneezes and keeping your hands away from your face. The Henry the Hand Web site includes resources for recognizing the week, including kits for use in schools, homes and hospitals that simplify infection prevention teachings. Other resources can be found here: Centers for Disease Control and PreventionFlorida Department of Health
School Network for Absenteeism PreventionBeware: Fraudulent Email – Not Sent by the Centers for Disease Control and PreventionDecember 1, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization wishes to bring to your attention the following important information forwarded to us by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Fraudulent Email) Transfer of Novel H1N1 Influenza VaccinesDecember 1, 2009 -- We have received multiple inquiries about transferring H1N1 vaccines between various H1N1 registered providers. (Novel H1N1 Influenza Vaccines Transfer) Updated Guidance on CSL's Novel H1N1 Influenza Vaccine and Differentiating Between Seasonal and Novel H1N1 Influenza Live Attenuated VaccineNovember 23, 2009 -- This important update from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information regarding the expanded Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for the use of CSL’s novel H1N1 influenza vaccine to include children 6 months of age and older. (Updated Guidances) Effective Immediately: Updated Guidance on CSL's Novel H1N1 Influenza VaccineNovember 17, 2009 -- Updated Guidance for the Use of CSL’s 2009 H1N1 Monovalent Vaccine from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information regarding the expanded Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) approval for the use of CSL’s seasonal and novel H1N1 influenza vaccines to include children 6 months of age and older. (CSL Vaccines) Novel H1N1 Influenza Pandemic Update: Pneumococcal Vaccination Recommended to Help Prevent Secondary InfectionsNovember 17, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to bring to your attention the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Health Advisory, which reminds us that pneumococcal vaccines can prevent some very serious secondary bacterial infections following infection with influenza viruses. (Pneumococcal Recommendation) Vaccine Information Statement UpdatesOctober 12, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to highlight recent updates to three Vaccine Information Statements (VIS): pneumococcal (PPSV), rabies, and zoster (shingles). Existing stocks may be used up, but be prepared to explain the changes to patients when appropriate. PPSV: The paragraph on pregnancy under section 5 has received a minor update. In the previous edition, the term "is not recommended" was used in a way that could be misinterpreted to mean "should never be given." In fact, while PPSV is not routinely recommended for pregnant women, it may be given under some circumstances. This VIS is available at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/default.htm#ppv23. Rabies: This update incorporates the new 4-dose post-exposure regimen and makes minor updates throughout. This VIS is available at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/default.htm#rabies. Zoster: This change removes active, untreated tuberculosis as a contraindication, which had been erroneously included in the previous editions. Several minor changes were also made. These involve changes in numbers (number of annual cases, age over which the disease is more common, and duration of rash) to make the VIS more consistent with other published materials. The edition date has not changed. This VIS is available at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/default.htm#shingles. Healthcare providers should periodically access VISs electronically and print out a supply for routine distribution. If necessary, bureau staff can fax copies to providers without internet access. Please contact the bureau by calling 850-245-4342. For the latest information concerning VIS updates, visit the CDC's VIS News website. Many VIS forms are available in other languages. As new editions are translated, they are posted on the Immunization Action Coalition's website. 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Information Statements - Spanish TranslationOctober 12, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization wishes to announce the availability of the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) - Spanish translation. (VIS Translation) Vaccine Information Statements - 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Information StatementsOctober 6, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization wishes to announce the availability of the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Information Statements (VIS). (H1N1 VIS) Vaccine Information Statements - 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Information StatementsOctober 6, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization wishes to announce the availability of the 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Information Statements (VIS). VIS are information sheets produced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that explain to vaccine recipients, their parents, or their legal representatives both the benefits and risks of a vaccine. Federal law requires that VIS be handed out before each dose when certain vaccinations are given. Print-ready files can be found on the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/default.htm#h1n1live. These new VIS have been integrated into the Florida State Health Online Tracking System (Florida SHOTS™), so registry users can access them electronically. Healthcare providers should periodically access the VIS electronically and print out a supply for routine distribution. If you do not have web access, please contact the bureau at Follow-up to Vaccine Information Statements - 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Information StatementsFollowing the release of the Vaccine Information Statements - 2009 H1N1 Influenza Vaccine Information Statements announcement, our office would like to respond to two questions that county health departments (CHDs) have asked our office.
Interested in Administering Novel H1N1 Influenza Vaccine?Register Today!
National Immunization SurveySeptember 1, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce the publication of National, State, and Local Area Vaccination Coverage Among Children Aged 19--35 Months --- United States, 2008 in MMWR Weekly August 28, 2009 / 58(33);921-926. (National Immunization Survey) Key Points Concerning Journal of the American Medical Association Human Papillomavirus ArticleAugust 19, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to share the following information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In anticipation of inquiries about the Journal of the American Medical Association's (JAMA) August 19, 2009 release of Postlicensure Safety Surveillance for Quadrivalent Human Papillomavirus Recombinant Vaccine, the CDC has prepared a set of key messages for your use that summarize the study, explain the main findings, and give information on FDA and CDC actions moving forward. The CDC's website has additional information relating to the safety of the HPV vaccine. Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, 2009August 12, 2009 -- On July 30, 2009, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released Prevention and Control of Seasonal Influenza with Vaccines: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), 2009. (Seasonal Influenza) Vaccine Information Statements for Seasonal Influenza VaccineAugust 12 , 2009 -- The 2009-2010 trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine (TIV) and live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) are now available at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/default.htm#flu. Update: VISs for Season Influenza VaccineThe Bureau of Immunization wishes to call your attention to the following announcement released by the CDC concerning the Influenza VISs originally posted to the internet. (Flu VIS) Updated Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices: Routine Poliovirus VaccinationAugust 7, 2009 -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published Updated Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) Regarding Routine Poliovirus Vaccination in the MMWR Weekly, August 7, 2009 / 58(30);829-830. These updates emphasize the importance of the booster dose at four years of age or greater, extend the minimum interval from dose three to dose four from four weeks to six months, add a precaution for the use of minimum intervals in the first six months of life, and clarify the poliovirus vaccination schedule when specific combination vaccines are used. The document can be accessed on the internet at www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5830a3.htm?s_cid=mm5830a3_e. National Immunization Awareness MonthThe Bureau of Immunization is pleased to provide this National Immunization Awareness Month information. The bureau joins the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in recognizing August as National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). The goal of NIAM is to stress the importance of receiving routine, up-to-date immunizations. (National Immunization Awareness Month) Important Update: Vaccines for Children Program’s New Online Initial Provider Enrollment Application and Recertification FormsThe Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce the release of our new online Vaccines for Children (VFC) Initial Provider Enrollment Application and Recertification forms. Please visit the VFC Enrollment webpage at www.ImmunizeFlorida.org/vfc/enrollment.htm and click on the new links. These links are also available on the Provider Forms webpage at www.ImmunizeFlorida.org/vfc/forms.htm. Providers can submit all required information online to the VFC Program staff. A copy of the completed form, including the Terms and Conditions, is emailed back to the provider as a confirmation of receipt. The provider should print, sign, date and retain a copy in their records. If the provider has submitted the Recertification form within the last year, a new form is not required until their renewal date. The form will not submit until the provider completes all required information. A validation field is included at the end of the application to prevent spam applications. The validation field will change each time you press submit. If the form does not submit due to missing information, the provider will need to update the validation field before resubmitting the form. The VFC Provider Handbook is also updated. It is available on our website at www.ImmunizeFlorida.org/vfc/manual.htm.Important: Updated Recommendations for Use of Haemophilus influenzae Type b VaccineJune 29, 2009 -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released Updated Recommendations for Use of Haemophilus influenzae Type b (Hib) Vaccine: Reinstatement of the Booster Dose at Ages 12--15 Months, in MMWR Recommendations and Reports, June 26, 2009 / 58(24);673-674. This article updates recommendations for the Hib series. While the production of the Merck Hib vaccine products is still suspended, manufacture of the two remaining products [monovalent Hib vaccine (ActHIB®) and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis/inactivated polio vaccine (DTaP/IPV)/Hib (Pentacel®)] will increase the availability of Hib-containing vaccine, which will result in the supply being sufficient to reinstate the Hib vaccine booster/fourth dose. Effective immediately, the CDC, in consultation with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), is recommending reinstatement of the booster dose of Hib vaccine for children 12 to 15 months of age who have completed the primary three-dose series. Infants should continue to receive the primary Hib vaccine series at 2, 4, and 6 months of age. Children 12 to 15 months of age should receive the booster dose on time. Older children for whom the booster dose was deferred should receive their Hib booster dose at the next routinely scheduled visit or medical encounter. Please note: While supply is sufficient to reinstate the booster dose and begin a limited catch-up vaccination, supply is not yet sufficient to support a mass recall of all children with deferred Hib booster doses. The Bureau will monitor the vaccine supply as the fourth dose is implemented to assure continuing coverage. This Hib Return to Booster Q & A – for Providers will answer many of the questions that may arise when reinstating the booster dose of Hib. Immunization Update 2009July 30, 2009, offered at 9:00 - 11:30 AM and 12:00 Noon - 2:30 PM ETMay 22, 2009 -- This live satellite broadcast and webcast will provide up-to-date information on the rapidly changing field of immunization. (Immunization Update 2009) Epidemiology & Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases 2009May 5, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce the release of the 2009 edition of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) course, Epidemiology & Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases. ( Epidemiology & Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases) Updated Guide to Contraindications and Precautions to VaccineMay 5, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce the release of an updated Guide to Contraindications and Precautions to Vaccine (April 2009) by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In these times of heightened vaccine-safety awareness, it is imperative that all healthcare providers have access to and knowledge of current recommendations regarding licensed vaccines in order to better serve those to whom they administer vaccine. Invalid contraindications to vaccination lead to missed opportunities and leave patients unnecessarily vulnerable to disease. The Guide to Contraindications and Precautions to Vaccine is now posted on CDC's website at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/vac-admin/contraindications.htm. This guide summarizes the CDC's recommendations regarding common symptoms and conditions that do and do not contraindicate vaccines licensed in the United States. The guide is designed to help immunization providers determine what common symptoms and conditions should contraindicate vaccination and which ones should not. It contains information on all licensed U.S. vaccines as of February 2009, and is arranged alphabetically according to symptoms and conditions which may, correctly or not, be perceived as contraindications to vaccination. There are very few true contraindication and precaution conditions. Only two of these conditions are generally considered to be permanent: severe (anaphylactic) allergic reaction to a vaccine component or following a prior dose of a vaccine, and encephalopathy not due to another identifiable cause occurring within seven days of pertussis vaccination. For detailed information regarding contraindications to vaccination, see Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine Preventable Diseases, chapter two "General Recommendations," available at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/pink-chapters.htm. A more thorough discussion of these issues can be found in the General Recommendations on Immunization: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. These recommendations are revised every three to five years as needed; the most current edition was published in Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report 2006;55[RR-15]:1–48. All providers who administer vaccine should have a copy of this report and be familiar with its content. Use of Non-DOH Approved Simulated DH 680 FormsMay 1, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization has recently been apprised of specific incidents where schools and childcare facilities have received unapproved DH 680 forms that have been produced by software vendors without DOH approval. This form, according to Department of Health (DOH) legal counsel, is misrepresented as a DOH form. The vendor for this product has been contacted and has sent notification to all customers using the product to refrain from using the form immediately. The ability to print this form will be removed from this particular software product in their next release. We have occasionally received notification of healthcare providers using software which prints the dates of vaccination on hard copies of the pre-printed DH 680 forms produced by DOH. While this practice is acceptable due to the use of the official DH 680 form, we do not recommend it as vaccination requirements change. There is no guarantee that software companies remain aware of changes to the DOH form and immunization requirements, nor is there any guarantee that systems can be updated in a timely manner as changes are made to immunization requirements. The best practice for producing the DH 680 continues to be transcribing onto the pre-printed form or producing the form electronically from the Florida State Health Online Tracking System (SHOTS). If you encounter any unapproved simulated DH 680 forms, please call the Florida SHOTS Enrollment Desk at 1 (877) 888-7468 and fax a redacted copy of the form to the attention of the Florida SHOTS enrollment staff at (850) 412-8501. You may also email a redacted copy of the form to flshots@doh.state.fl.us. Thank you for your assistance with ensuring that the integrity of the legal DH 680 form remains intact for the appropriate and accurate recording of vaccinations required for childcare center and school attendance. Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) NewsApril 29, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization requests that all providers read the following information carefully regarding Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) updates and development, released April 16, 2009, by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Updated Pneumococcal Polysaccharide (PPSV23) VIS: The PPSV VIS has been updated, mainly to reflect new indications for smokers and adults with asthma, but also to get a general facelift. 2009-2010 Influenza VIS under development: For 2009-2010, the CDC is proposing a single influenza VIS that will cover both trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine (TIV) and live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV ). It is being developed now, and will ideally be released at the same time as the 2009-2010 ACIP influenza recommendations. Given the frequency with which VIS forms are updated, the ease of access to them on the internet and through the Florida State Health Online Tracking System (SHOTS), the requirement for healthcare providers to use only the current version, and the fiscal/temporal impracticality of having a consistently up-to-date supply available for the state, the Bureau of Immunization will neither print nor store any vaccine information statements in the State Distribution Center. Healthcare providers should periodically access the VIS electronically and print out a supply for routine distribution. If necessary, bureau staff can FAX copies to providers without internet access. By Federal law, all vaccine providers must give patients, their parents, and/or legal representatives the appropriate VIS whenever a vaccination is given. As needed, providers should supplement VIS forms orally, with videotapes, with additional printed material, or in any other way that will help recipients understand the disease and vaccine. Sufficient time should be allotted to review the VIS and discuss:
A contact number should be provided to the parent or guardian in the event there are questions or medical concerns. For the latest information concerning VIS updates, visit the CDC's VIS News website. Many VIS forms are available in other languages. As new editions are translated, they are posted on the Immunization Action Coalition's website. Availability of New Florida Certification of Immunization (DH 680)March 30, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce the availability of the new manual version of the Florida Certification of Immunization (Form DH 680: 04/09) in the State Distribution Center. A sample is available on our publications website. More important: providers using the Florida State Health Online Tracking System (SHOTS) should electronically sign and certify DH 680s. These forms are then available to other healthcare providers, schools, and childcare centers participating in the Florida SHOTS. If training is needed on how to electronically sign the DH 680, please contact the Florida SHOTS help desk at: 1 (877) 888-7468. The bureau would also like to remind all immunization partners of the school immunization requirement effective for the 2009-2010 school year for students entering seventh grade. Students entering, repeating or transferring into seventh grade will need to provide documentation for the tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (Tdap) vaccine. This requirement is in addition to the previous immunization requirements that are grade-appropriate. A "grandfather" clause was not an option for this vaccine requirement. The Tdap vaccine has been the routine recommendation since 2006 for adolescents age ten and above. ***There have been many questions regarding the interval for Temporary Medical Exemptions (TMEs) after the last tetanus-diphtheria (Td) dose. The Bureau of Immunization, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is recommending that a Tdap be administered after a two-year interval from the last Td—or provide a TME for two years from the previous Td. One of the most rapidly rising incidence rates of pertussis is among adolescents, which is transmissible in school and other settings. Students who received a dose of Td vaccine prior to entering seventh grade should be given a TME and immunized at the appropriate time. The timeline for the TME must be no longer than five years from the last tetanus-diphtheria-containing vaccine. The Tdap can be administered to students ten years of age and above if prior Td booster was given at least two years ago. The updated DH 680 form provides fields to document the Tdap vaccine as a DOE Code P. Space has also been allotted for Td vaccine as Code Q. It is important to note that the DH 680 form provides a selection for either Code 1 (K to 12) or Code 8 (seventh grade requirement). Only the 4/09 version has the P and Q Codes. Students who have completed the immunization requirements for kindergarten should be documented as complete (Code 1) and not be given a TME until seventh grade. The updated version of the DH 680 (manual) Florida Certification of Immunization has been printed and stocked in quantity at the State Distribution Center. Though forms on-hand may still be used, only the newer forms are available in bulk. The sample can be viewed at www.ImmunizeFlorida.org/publications/forms.htm. Healthcare providers may elect to order their supply of forms directly from the State Distribution Center. Forms are available to Florida providers for a nominal shipping and handling fee. The State Distribution Center phone number is (850) 414-8086. The DH 680 (computer), for use with the Florida SHOTS, is shrink-wrapped in packages of 200. The stock number is 5740-099-0680-0. The DH 680 (manual) is shrink-wrapped in packages of 200. The stock number is 5740-000-0680-6. 2009 National Infant Immunization Week In 2007, Florida’s immunization coverage level for children two years of age was 83.2%. The bureau urges providers and parents not to become complacent, since not all of Florida’s children are fully immunized by two years of age. Healthcare providers play a critical role in educating parents about the importance of immunization and ensuring that infants are fully immunized. Because of the success of vaccines in preventing disease in the United States, parents are often unaware that their children are at risk for so many serious and life-threatening diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have educational and promotional materials at www.cdc.gov/vaccines/events/niiw/default.htm. Parents are encouraged to talk to their healthcare provider to ensure their infant is up-to-date on immunizations. Infants are particularly vulnerable to infectious diseases; that is why it is critical to protect them through immunization. Each day, nearly 12,000 babies are born in the United States, who will need to be immunized against 14 vaccine-preventable diseases by two years of age. Our nation's success in achieving high levels of infant immunization coverage is the result of the work that local health departments, immunization coalitions, individual healthcare professionals, parents, and other partners do throughout the year. The bureau encourages you to promote NIIW at the local level and thanks you for your continued commitment to ensure all children have a healthy childhood free from vaccine-preventable diseases. Five NIIW posters are available for download and reproduction at our Publications page.
Invasive Haemophilus influenzae Type B Disease in Young Children and Importance for All Young Children to Receive Three-Dose Primary Series with Available Hib-Containing VaccineMarch 18, 2009 -- The information below regarding the Haemophilus influenzae Type B (Hib) vaccine shortage was published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Health Advisory via the Health Alert Network. Background of the Hib Vaccine ShortageHealthcare providers must be vigilant about ensuring all young children are appropriately vaccinated with the three-dose primary series of Hib vaccine. A nationwide shortage of Hib vaccine began in December 2007 and is ongoing. The recall of certain lots of the two Hib-containing vaccines produced by Merck & Co., Inc., and cessation of production of both vaccines, has left only one manufacturer of Hib vaccine in the United States (Sanofi Pasteur). The shortage resulted in a recommendation by the CDC to defer the Hib booster (routinely recommended at 12 through 15 months) for children who are NOT at high risk of Hib infection temporarily, until supplies are restored. This recommendation is still in effect. Temporary deferral of the booster dose at 12 through 15 months of age for non-high-risk children may have resulted in increased Hib carriage and transmission in non-symptomatic children. There is potential to see increases in cases of Hib disease at the local level. During 2008 in Minnesota, five children aged five months through three years were reported with invasive Hib disease; one died. Three patients had received no vaccinations because of parent or guardian deferral or refusal. One child was aged five months and had received two doses of Hib PRP-TT vaccine, in accordance with the primary series schedule. Another child had received two doses of Hib PRP-OMP vaccine, but no booster dose, per the CDC's recommendations during the shortage. Subsequent to Hib infection, this child was diagnosed with hypogammaglobulinemia. The five cases in 2008 were the most reported for one year from Minnesota since 1992, when 10 cases were reported. There is enough Hib-containing vaccine for all U.S. children to receive the primary series. All children should complete the primary series by seven months of age; high-risk children should continue to receive the full primary series and the booster dose. Completion of the primary series with currently available vaccine products (manufactured by Sanofi Pasteur) requires a total of three doses of Hib-containing vaccine (two, four, and six months of age). Although there is enough Hib-containing vaccine nationally to support these recommendations, there may be times when practitioners do not have an adequate supply of vaccine to meet local demand. If Hib vaccine is not available in the office at the time of a visit, children who are unable to receive one of the primary series doses should be tracked and recalled to schedule an appointment to receive their dose as soon as vaccine becomes available in the office. In addition, using available Hib-containing vaccines has presented challenges associated with switching from the Merck to Sanofi products for some providers. There are indications these challenges have led to lower completion of the primary series. Preliminary information comes from sentinel immunization information systems (registries) in select states, which have indicated up to 10% lower coverage with the third Hib dose in the primary series, compared to other vaccines (DTaP, PCV7) commonly administered at the same visit. In the scenario of booster dose deferral, it is even more important that all children receive the complete primary series. Specifically, some of the challenges in using the currently available Hib-containing vaccines have included provider reluctance to switch inventory and schedules, misunderstanding regarding what constitutes primary versus booster doses, determining a catch-up schedule in the setting of the deferred booster, and provider and parent concerns about over-vaccination, resulting from switching to the Sanofi Pasteur Hib-containing vaccine. Despite these challenges, healthcare providers need to ensure that all children are appropriately vaccinated with the primary series. For example, if Pentacel (DTaP-IPV/Hib) is the only Hib-containing vaccine available, this combination product should be used to complete the primary series, even if doing so results in receipt of additional doses of other antigens (e.g., DTaP, IPV). The Hib-containing vaccine products that are available may not be what providers used previously in their practice; however, the potential for increased transmission of Hib makes it more important than ever that every child is adequately protected. RecommendationsThe following non-high-risk children should be scheduled to receive the primary series of Hib vaccine, as outlined below:
Certain children are at increased risk for Hib disease, including children with asplenia, sickle cell disease, human immunodeficiency virus infection and certain other immunodeficiency syndromes, and malignant neoplasms. The CDC recommends that providers continue to vaccinate these children with available Hib conjugate vaccines according to the routinely recommended schedules, including the 12- through 15-month booster dose. Providers who serve predominantly American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) children living in AI/AN communities should continue to stock and use PRP-OMP- containing Hib vaccines (Merck product) and vaccinate according to the routinely recommended schedule, which includes the two-dose primary series (two and four months of age) and a 12- through 15-month booster dose. This product is available from the VFC Pediatric Vaccine Stockpile, through their state immunization programs. For more information about Hib disease and vaccination, contact your state or local county health department, the Bueau of Immunization at (850) 245-4342, or the CDC at 1 (800) 232-4636 [(800) CDC-INFO] or on the web at: www.cdc.gov/vaccines/about/contact/nipinfo_contact_form.htm. Information about current vaccine shortages and delays can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/shortages/default.htm. Additional Sources of Information
VFC Resolution No. 02/09-1: Vaccines to Prevent Pneumococcal DiseaseMarch 13, 2009 -- Resolution No. 02/09-1: Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices: Vaccines for Children Program Vaccines to Prevent Pneumococcal Disease. VFC Resolution 10/08-1 is repealed and replaced by Resolution No. 02/09-1, adopted and effective: February 25, 2009, the purpose of this resolution is to correct errors in the eligible groups and dose intervals for pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, and to streamline the resolution through the use of links to published documents. The document can be viewed online at: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/vfc/downloads/resolutions/1008-1pneumo-508.pdf. To view other Resolutions, or request email notification of updates, visit: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/programs/vfc/acip-vfc-resolutions.htm New 2009-2010 School Immunization Requirements Flyer AvailableMarch 13, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce a flyer highlighting changes to compulsory vaccinations for the 2009-2010 school year. The 2009-2010 School Entry Requirements flyers are available for public download from the bureau's publications webpage. Other recently posted and useful products include brochures and flyers directed at adolescent and adult immunizations, in addition to brochures targeting Tdap, and the fourth DTaP. Please visit and explore the publications page. For access to high-resolution images for use in local mass production, please contact Marlo Peck at (850) 245-4342. Update on Supply of Pediatric Hepatitis B VaccineMarch 2, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization wishes to bring to your attention information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), concerning the supply of pediatric hepatitis B vaccine. As many of you are aware, providers ordering pediatric hepatitis B vaccine from either manufacturer (GSK or Merck) have recently been experiencing backorders. CDC has been in discussions with both vaccine manufacturers about the U.S. supply of pediatric hepatitis B vaccine. Based on these discussions, the CDC has released monovalent hepatitis B vaccine doses from its pediatric vaccines stockpiles (which contain both Engerix® and Recombivax®). These doses are made available to the respective manufacturers to fill their public and private sector orders through March. Beyond March:
The CDC will provide updates on pediatric hepatitis B vaccine supply as they become available, and subsequently, we will ensure that pertinent information is disseminated. The CDC's web page Current Vaccine Shortages & Delays is updated as needed to provide public information on vaccine shortages and/or delays. The FDA's web page on Biological Product Shortages provides additional information regarding regulatory issues related to vaccine supply. Please note: Florida's VFC Program has not experienced a need for backorders and will monitor the vaccine supply and keep everyone updated. At this time, there is no change in the recommended vaccination schedule for pediatric hepatitis B vaccine. The Florida Department of Health Encourages Floridians to Practice Good Hygiene during Peak Flu SeasonMarch 2, 2009 -- The Florida Department of Health (DOH) encourages Floridians to practice good hygiene as influenza (flu) activity in Florida increases, which is typical for this time of year. (Peak Flu Season) Requirement for Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis (Tdap) for Entry and Attendance in 7th GradeFebruary 13, 2009 -- The Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Immunization would like to remind all immunization partners about the upcoming school immunization requirement effective for the 2009/2010 school year for students entering 7th grade. Effective School Year 2009/2010:Students entering, repeating, or transferring into 7th grade will need to provide documentation for the tetanus-diphtheria-purtussis (Tdap) vaccine. This requirement is in addition to the previous immunization requirements that are grade-appropriate. Students who received a dose of tetanus-diphtherial (Td) vaccine 2 to 5 years prior to entering 7th grade should be given a Temporary Medical Exemption (TME) and immunized at the appropriate time. The timeline for the TME must be no longer than 5 years from the last tetanus-diphtheria-containing vaccine. Please note: a dose of Tdap can be given within 2 years of receiving a dose of Td vaccine, regardless of a child’s TME status, if there is a risk of exposure to pertussis. Tdap can be administered to students 10 years of age and above if prior Td booster was given at least 2 years ago. Recommendations for provision of the Tdap vaccine are in accordance with the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). The Department of Education is updating their electronic system to incorporate the following: In order to assist districts in recording the needed immunization information, two codes (P and Q) have been added to the Vaccine Status element. The element can be viewed at http://www.fldoe.org/eias/dataweb/database_0809/st293_1.pdf. These codes should be useful as staff prepare for the requirements of 2009/2010. Therefore, for the 2009/2010 school year, only codes ‘P’ (Tdap) and ‘Q’ (Td) will be acceptable for students entering 7th grade. Please contact Nada Scott at Nada.Scott@fldoe.org if you have questions about this coding change. The updated codes will also be reflected in the Florida State Health Online Tracking System (SHOTS) as well as on the updated Certificate of Immunization (DH 680). Resource Materials for Parents to Address Frequently Asked Vaccine QuestionsFebruary 13, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to remind our partners of the educational resource from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Vaccine safety has always been a concern of parents and healthcare providers, more so now than ever. These materials can serve as an entry point for the beginning of patient/provider discussions concerning vaccines by presenting the topics in science-based environment in plain language. These materials are presented as information sheets targeted and written for parents and presented in tear-off pads. Two recent products addressing common parental concerns about vaccine safety are described below: Too Many Vaccines? What you should know http://www.chop.edu/vaccine/images/vec_tomany.pdf Today, young children receive vaccines to protect them against 14 different diseases, and some people question whether this is too many vaccines. These tear sheets answer questions including "What are the active components in vaccines?", "Do children encounter more immunological components from vaccines today than they did 30 years ago?", "Can too many vaccines overwhelm an infant's immune system?", "How many vaccines can children effectively handle at one time?", "How do we know that multiple vaccines can be given safely?", and "What is the harm of separating, spacing out or withholding vaccines?" Vaccines and Autism: What you should know http://www.chop.edu/vaccine/images/autism.pdf Some parents of children with autism are concerned that vaccines are the cause. This newsletter answers questions surrounding the three main concerns: the measles-mumps-rubela (MMR) vaccine; thimerosal, a mercury-containing preservative previously found in vaccines; and the idea that babies receive too many vaccines too soon. Some of the other titles in the tear-off pad series include: Vaccine and Adults, Tdap: What You Should Know; The Facts About Childhood Vaccines; Human Papillomavirus: What You Should Know; Shingles: What You Should Know; Thimerosal: What You Should Know. Order by phone at (215) 590-9990, by fax at (215) 590-2025, or by email at vaccines@email.chop.edu. For additional ordering information, go to: http://www.chop.edu/consumer/jsp/division/generic.jsp?id=81901. Cancellation of 2009 Bureau of Immunization Summit - Immunizations Across the Lifespan!February 23, 2009 -- In consideration of the state’s current economic and fiscal status, the Bureau of Immunization regrets to inform you that it has become necessary to cancel this year’s upcoming Immunization Summit: Immunizations Across the Lifespan. (Immunization Summit) Prevention of Rotavirus Gastroenteritis Among Infants and Children, Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)February 6, 2009 -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released Prevention of Rotavirus Gastroenteritis Among Infants and Children Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) in MMWR Recommendations and Reports, February 6, 2009 / 58(RR02);1-25. The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to draw your attention to this document, the summary of which is presented in its entirety below. SummaryRotavirus is the most common cause of severe gastroenteritis in infants and young children worldwide. Before initiation of the rotavirus vaccination program in the United States in 2006, approximately 80 percent of U.S. children had rotavirus gastroenteritis by 5 years of age. Each year during the 1990s and early 2000s, rotavirus resulted in approximately 410,000 physician visits, 205,000-272,000 emergency department visits, and 55,000-70,000 hospitalizations among U.S. infants and children, with total annual direct and indirect costs of approximately $1 billion. In February 2006, a live, oral, human-bovine reassortant rotavirus vaccine (RotaTeq® [RV5]) was licensed as a 3-dose series for use among U.S. infants for the prevention of rotavirus gastroenteritis, and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended routine use of RV5 among U.S. infants (CDC. Prevention of rotavirus gastroenteritis among infants and children: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices [ACIP]. MMWR 2006;55[No. RR-12]). In April 2008, a live, oral, human attenuated rotavirus vaccine (Rotarix® [RV1]) was licensed as a The document is available online at: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5802a1.htm?s_cid=rr5802a1_e. Pneumonia Hospitalizations Among Young Children After Introduction of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine 1997--2006January 29, 2009 -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released information regarding Pneumonia Hospitalizations Among Young Children After Introduction of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (United States 1997--2006). The report can be viewed online at: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5801a1.htm?s_cid=mm5801a1_e . The updated findings from national hospital discharge data suggest that previously observed reductions in all–cause pneumonia hospitalizations after routine pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) use among U.S. children less than 2 years of age have been sustained. These results also confirm that pneumococcus is a major cause of childhood pneumonia and indicate the need for continued monitoring of the immunization program’s effects on pneumonia hospitalizations in children. Pneumonia accounts for an estimated 8% of all childhood hospital admissions. The bacteria, Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is a leading bacterial cause of childhood pneumonias. Routine childhood immunization with the PCV7 began in 2000, and substantial declines in hospital admissions for pneumonia in young children were previously reported through 2004. The CDC monitors the effects of PCV7 immunization on pneumonia hospitalizations using data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. This report provides an updated analysis through 2006. In 2006, the rate for all-cause pneumonia hospitalizations among children less than 2 years of age was 8.1 per 1,000 children, 35% lower than the rate before the introduction of PCV7 vaccine. This reduction represents an estimated 36,300 fewer annual pneumonia hospitalizations in 2006, compared with the average annual number of hospitalizations during 1997-1999. Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule — United States, 2009January 14, 2009 -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released updated information regarding the Recommended Adult Immunization Schedule approved by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American College of Physicians. The 2009 recommendations have been published and are cited as: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommended adult immunization schedule---United States, 2009. MMWR 2008; 57(53). No new vaccines were added to the schedule; however, several indications were added to the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine footnote, clarifications were made to the footnotes for human papillomavirus, varicella, and meningococcal vaccines, and schedule information was added to the hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccine footnotes. New Indication for Boostrix® Vaccine (Tdap) Expands Disease Protection to Individuals 10 Through 64 Years of AgeJanuary 07, 2009 -- The Bureau of Immunization wishes to make you aware that BOOSTRIX® vaccine has now been licensed for use in an expanded age group that includes adults 19 through 64 years of age. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved BOOSTRIX® [Tetanus Toxoid-Reduced Diphtheria Toxoid-Acellular Pertussis Vaccine, Adsorbed (Tdap)] for use in adults 19 through 64 years of age. BOOSTRIX® offers protection against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough) to individuals 10 through 64 years of age – the broadest age range for any Tdap vaccine. BOOSTRIX was previously approved as a booster vaccine for preteens and teens. The CDC recommends a single Tdap vaccination for adults 19 through 64 years of age in place of a Td booster, if the last dose of the Td vaccine was received 10 or more years prior in individuals who have not already received a Tdap vaccine. This includes healthcare personnel who have direct patient contact, as well as adults younger than 65 years of age who have or anticipate having contact with infants younger than 12 months (e.g., parents, grandparents, childcare providers). While this new approval does not affect provision of VFC vaccines, it does afford consumers and providers with another option for protection against Bordatello pertussis infection and complications in adolescents and adults. Recommended Immunization Schedules for Persons 0 Through 18 Years of Age — United States, 2009January 6, 2009 -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) annually publishes immunization schedules approved by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) that summarize recommendations for currently licensed vaccines for children 18 years of age and younger. The 2009 recommendations have been published and are cited as: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recommended immunization schedules for persons aged 0 through 18 years—United States, 2009. MMWR 2008;57(51&52). Changes to the schedule are noted:
Preteen Vaccine Week
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March 27, 2009 -- The Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce the 2009 National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) theme: "Love them. Protect them. Immunize them." This year, NIIW will be held April 25 through May 2, 2009. National Infant Immunization Week is an annual observance to promote the benefits of immunizations and to highlight the importance of immunizing infants against 14 vaccine-preventable diseases by age two. Since 1994, NIIW has served as a call to action for parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers to ensure that infants are fully immunized. Childhood vaccinations are one of the best ways for parents to protect their children against vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccine-preventable diseases are at an all-time low in the United States. However, these diseases still exist, and continued vaccination is necessary to protect everyone from potential outbreaks. 
January 18-24, 2009.