Vaccine TopicsShingles (Herpes Zoster) VaccineVaccine 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. Prevention of Herpes Zoster: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization PracticesJune 13, 2008 -- The Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Immunization announces publication of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) 2008; volume June 6, 2008 / 57);1-30 concerning the prevention of herpes zoster through vaccination. A Continuing Education Activity has been approved for this report and is included in the print and electronic format on June 06, 2008, in Vol. 57, No. RR-5. The credits awarded are as follows: CME, 2.75; CNE, 2.75; CEU, .25; and CHES, 3.0. These recommendations represent the first statement by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) on the use of a live attenuated vaccine for the prevention of herpes zoster (zoster) (i.e., shingles) and its sequelae, which was licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on May 25, 2006. This report summarizes the epidemiology of zoster and its sequelae, describes the zoster vaccine, and provides recommendations for its use among adults older than 60 years of age in the United States. The CDC's Shingles Disease - Questions and Answers provides additional information. CDC′s Advisory Committee Recommends “Shingles” VaccinationThe ACIP to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) voted Wednesday, October 25, 2006, to recommend a newly licensed zoster vaccine, Zostavax manufactured by Merck, to protect against shingles be given to all people age 60 and older, including those who have had a previous episode of shingles. http://www.cdc.gov/media/pressrel/r061026.htm Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine Information Statement (VIS)The Bureau of Immunization is pleased to announce the release of an interim Shingles (zoster) Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) dated 9/11/06. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) licensed a new vaccine to reduce the risk of shingles (herpes zoster), Zostavax, on May 25, 2006. A single dose of shingles vaccine is indicated for adults 60 years of age and older. When the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) votes and releases their recommendations, a final VIS edition will be published. Once a VIS is available it should be used effective immediately. The VIS can be viewed online at: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/downloads/vis-shingles.pdf and http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis/default.htm. VISs 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 VISs be handed out whenever (before each dose) certain vaccinations are given. Shingles LinksCenters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Herpes Zoster Vaccine (Shingles): http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/shingles/vac-faqs.htm Shingles (Herpes Zoster) Vaccine: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/shingles/default.htm Shingles (Herpes Zoster): http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/shingles/dis-faqs.htm Merck |