Communication Resources
RECENT NEWS AND RECOGNITIONS:
October, 2022
The 1998 Society Recognizes Roy Benaroch, M.D. with the COMMUNITY PHYSICIAN LEADERSHIP AWARD FOR 2022. Please join me in congratulating him on this honor. Read more
A MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO: STATEMENT ON RACISM AND INEQUALITY
At this time, when the entire world has been struggling with the toll the pandemic has had on our daily lives, our loved ones, and the world economy, we are now faced with an even greater adversary that threatens the very fabric of our communities and the nation. The senseless killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and others have brought into clear view some of the racial disparities and injustices that permeate many aspects of our lives. These deaths have lit a fuse, sparking outrage, anger, and protests around the world, including in our very own communities. At this time, it is clear that racism, in all its forms, must be addressed and eradicated – for the sake of our entire country, but especially for our children.
As an organization focused on helping those who provide care for children, KHF has an important role to play in supporting the well-being of our communities, through the efforts of our member practices. It is not lost on us that communities of color have been disproportionately affected by both the coronavirus pandemic and police brutality. We want to do all we can to help our member practices provide a clear focus on population health and are committed to achieving the goal of maximizing the health goals for all of our patients and families, regardless of skin color.
The Board and I are writing this letter to tell you that our commitment to these goals, and our community, is stronger than ever. We hope you have seen that commitment from all the KHF activities that have occurred throughout the pandemic. Our reemergence plan is focused on targeting all of those patients who have been impacted directly and have not received the care they need during this time. This is just the start of how we will serve you and your patients in the months and years ahead. We have great things under development that will build on this progress and will empower our practices to serve their respective populations in an even more focused way!
By being part of the pediatric profession, we all chose a path of service. Kid Health First and our member practices have always been committed to serving everyone in our community equally, and we intend to stand by everyone we serve. In the coming weeks, Kids Health First will bring our practices some resources to help you address these issues and take some steps forward in a positive direction. If you have thoughts or ideas about what would be helpful to you and your practice, please let us know.
Tom Finnerty, CEO and the Board of Directors
Recent News Advisories:
November 29, 2022
Join the CDC for a webinar today from 2-3 PM EST on RSV, the flu and COVID-19 at Webinar November 29, 2022 - Flu, RSV, COVID-19 and other Respiratory Threats this Fall and Winter (cdc.gov)
Register for the webinar: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register
November 28, 2022
WHO recommends a new name for monkeypox disease.
Following a series of consultations with global experts, WHO will begin using a new preferred term “mpox” as a synonym for monkeypox. Both names will be used simultaneously for one year while “monkeypox” is phased out.
September 16, 2022
AHA News Advisory-On September 9, 2022, the CDC reported an increase in pediatric hospitalizations for severe respiratory illness. Click here for more information.
August 29, 2022
Abbott announces a restart of production of Similac at the Sturgis, Michigan plant. "We estimate that it will take about six weeks for the product to begin shipping to retail locations as it enters into production, enhanced pre- and post-production testing, and cycles through shipping and retail distribution networks." Click here for more information.
August 12, 2022
An article posted by USA Today provides information on monkeypox in children and what to know about symptoms, vaccines and treatment. Click here for more information.
Click here to download a Q & A for parents on what to know about monkeypox from Kids Health First.
August 4, 2022
The Health and Human Services (HHS) declared monkeypox a public health emergency on August 4, 2022. As of August 10, 2022 there have been more than 10,000 cases identified in the United States. Click here for more information about the disease, its signs and symptoms and its potential exposure to all individuals. .
CDC HEALTHY ALERT NETWORK (HAN) HEALTH ADVISORY: FOR MEMBERS ONLY
July 12, 2022
The CDC HAN Health AdvisoryNetwork notified clinicians and public health departments that Parechovirus (PeV) is currently circulating in the US. Multiple states have reported the infections in neonates and young infants since May 22, 2022. Clinicians are encouraged to include PeV in the differential diagnosis of infants presenting with fever, sepsis-like syndrome, and neurologic illness. Click here for more information.
ABBOTT DELAYS ELECARE FORMULA PRODUCTION AT MICHIGAN PLANT DUE TO SEVERE FLOODING:
CNN reported that on June 16, 2022 Abbott announced delays in production of Elecare formula at Michigan plant due to severe flooding. They have notified the FDA and stated "...We have informed FDA and will conduct comprehensive testing in conjunction with the independent third party to ensure the plant is safe to resume production. This will likely delay production and distribution of new product for a few weeks.” Click here for more information.
CDC PROVIDES AN UPDATE ON CHILDREN WITH ACUTE HEPATITIS OF UNKNOWN CAUSE: FOR MEMBERS ONLY
The CDC continues to work with health departments and clinicians across the country to identify and investigate hepatitis of unknown cause in children-On May 18, 2022 the CDC provided a report of the current of the information obtained in their investigation of children with unknown cause of hepatitis since their public report of May 6, 2022. Click here for more information.
ABBOTT REACHES AGREEMENT WITH FDA ON BABY FORMULA CASE:
Abbott enters into Consent Decree with FDA creating pathway to reopen facility-On May 16, 2022 Abbott announced it has agreed to a consent decree which creates a pathway to opening the facility within two weeks. This decree includes necessary steps Abbott must demonstrate to resume production and maintain the facility. Products not likely to appear on shelves for 6-8 weeks following the facility's reopening. Click here for more information.
PRODUCT RECALL:
February 17, 2022 the FDA posted an announcement from Abbott Healthcare of a voluntary recall of powdered infant formulas which were manufactured in Sturgis, Michigan where one of their manufacturing facilities is located. Please click here for more information and recommendations on replacement formulas from GI Cares for Kids. .
COMMUNICATIONS FOR PARENTS ON RELEVANT TOPICS :
FDA expands eligibility for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Booster Dose to 16-17 year olds.
Social Media Posts
Option 1:
According to the FDA, “vaccination and getting a booster when eligible, along with other preventative measures like masking and avoiding large crowds and poorly ventilated spaces, remain our most effective methods for fighting COVID-19,” states acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock, M.D. Click here for more information. #ProtectOurChildren #NameofPractice
Option 2:
Adolescents 16 to 17 years of age are now eligible to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 single dose booster at least six months after completion of the original two dose regimen. This is the only COVID-19 vaccine booster available for this age group. Click here for more information. #ProtectOurChildren #NameofPractice
Q&A for Parents-Please distribute
October 28, 2022
COVID-19 Bivalent Vaccine Boosters from Pfizer BioNTech and Moderna for children 5 years of age and older. Please click here for a Q &A for parents.
May 19, 2022
Abbott Reaches Agreement with FDA to Reopen Baby Formula Plant to Ease Nationwide Shortage
On May 16, 2022, Abbott agreed to address unsanitary conditions that led to contamination of its baby formula plant in Sturgis, Michigan. Under this consent decree, Abbott could restart plant operations in two weeks.
FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, said “The public should rest assured that the agency will do everything possible to continue ensuring that infant and other specialty formulas produced by the company will meet the FDA’s safety and quality standards.”
For more information, visit https://www.cnbc.com/2022/05/16/abbott-reaches-agreement-with-fda-to-reopen-baby-formula-plant-to-ease-nationwide-shortage.html.
Q: What does a consent decree mean?
A: This is an agreement between Abbott and the FDA which was approved by the U.S. District of Court for Western Michigan. In order to open the plant, Abbott has agreed to bring in outside experts to help the facility fall in line with all food safety rules and regulations.
Q: When did this situation happen and how will I know that the formula will be safe once the plant reopens.
A: In February of this year, Abbott issued a voluntary recall of several formulas made at the Michigan plant. These included Similac PM 60/40, Similac, Alimentum and Elecare products.
The outside experts that Abbott has agreed to bring in will create a plan for Abbott to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and will schedule periodic and ongoing evaluations to make certain that Abbott is following all the necessary rules and regulations. This process will be under the supervision of the FDA.
The CDC concluded its investigation with no findings of a link between Abbott formulas and infant illnesses.
Q: Now that the Michigan plant will be reopening, when can I expect to see these formulas on the shelves at the store?
A: Even though the Michigan plant may be allowed to open in two weeks, it can take between 6 to 8 weeks for these products to appear on retail shelves.
Q: What if this happens again?
A: Abbott is subject to this consent decree for at least 5 years. Under this decree, Abbott is required to shut down production again if any products test positive for any bacteria, dispose of the products, and find the source of the contamination and correct the problem. The FDA would have to approve any reopening once again. The company can also be fined for violations up to $5 million dollars a year.
According to Robert B. Ford, chairman and CEO at Abbott, "Our number one priority is getting infants and families the high-quality formulas they need, and this is a major step toward re-opening our Sturgis facility so we can ease the nationwide formula shortage. We look forward to working with the FDA to quickly and safely re-open the facility."
In a statement to the FDA, he continued, "We know millions of parents and caregivers depend on us and we're deeply sorry that our voluntary recall worsened the nationwide formula shortage. We will work hard to re-earn the trust that moms, dads and caregivers have placed in our formulas for more than 50 years."
The Justice Department, the FDA and CDC are all committed to ensuring compliance with U.S. food safety laws.
Q: What if I choose not to continue using these products after the plant re-opens?
A: The FDA is also working with their other plants and other baby formula manufacturers to increase production in the U.S. These include Gerber and Reckitt manufacturers.
In addition, Abbott will continue to import formula from the FDA registered facility in Ireland to help alleviate the current shortage. Abbott, in collaboration with the FDA, are also hoping to increase baby formula imports from other countries, such as the U.K., Australia and New Zealand.
Any foreign manufacturer must apply to the FDA for approval to import its products into the U. S. After receiving an application from these foreign entities, the FDA determines whether its products are safe, provide enough nutrition, and all food and nutrition safety laws have been followed. All of these countries have similar regulatory standards as the U.S.
No foreign imports will be allowed into the country without approval from the FDA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Q: What if I still am not certain what to do?
A: Your primary care physician is always available to guide you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for advice.
Sources:
November 3, 2021 Authorization of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in children 5-11 years of age
“Today, CDC Director Rochelle P. Walensky, M.D., M.P.H., endorsed the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ (ACIP) recommendation that children 5 to 11 years old be vaccinated against COVID-19 with the Pfizer-BioNTech pediatric vaccine. CDC now expands vaccine recommendations to about 28 million children in the United States in this age group and allows providers to begin vaccinating them as soon as possible.” For more information on their recommendation, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s1102-PediatricCOVID-19Vaccine.html.
Q: Why should I choose to have my child vaccinated against COVID-19?
A: As of October 2021, more than 1.9 million children have been infected with COVID-19 in the 5-to-11-year old age group. In addition, there have been over 8,300 hospitalizations within this same age group, and approximately one third of those hospitalizations have required a stay in an intensive care unit. There have also been more than 2,500 cases of multisystem inflammatory disorder from COVID-19. These statistics were reported by Peter Marks, M.D., a top FDA vaccine official, during the independent FDA advisory panel which met on Monday, October 26, 2021.
While children do not appear to be as severely affected by COVID-19 as adults, they are susceptible to the disease. Additionally, all infants, and children with obesity, diabetes, chronic lung disease, sickle cell disease and immunosuppression are at a greater risk of severe disease.
Q: What data did the FDA and CDC need to know to determine the effectiveness of the vaccine in younger children.
A: On October 29, 2021, the FDA authorized the emergency use of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine to include children from 5-to-11 years of age. This authorization followed a comprehensive evaluation of all data presented by Pfizer regarding their clinical trials in this age group.
This information noted that smaller doses of Pfizer vaccine were highly effective in triggering a robust response to the vaccine which proved to be more than 90% effective at preventing COVID-19 for children 5 to 11.More than 3,000 children participated in the clinical trials with no serious side effects detected in this ongoing study.
Q: Now that the Pfizer vaccine has been approved for children 5-11 years of age, what do I need to know about the safety of that vaccine?
A: According to the FDA, initial data indicated that the Pfizer vaccine is 90.7% effective among children ages 5 to 11, including the highly contagious delta variant. Overall, the benefits of the vaccine outweigh any risks associated with the vaccine.
Q: What kind of side effects have been seen in children?
A: The side effects in children have been similar to those seen in adults. The most common side effects were pain at the injection site, fatigue, and headache. Reactions were mostly mild or moderate. There were no serious adverse events related to the vaccine, including myocarditis or anaphylaxis.
Q: Does the Pfizer vaccine require one or two doses?
A: The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine requires two doses, which are 1/3 the amount given to anyone 12 years of age and older. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is the only one currently approved to be used in children 5 to 11.
Q: How far apart do these two doses need to be administered?
A: Twenty-one days apart. During November and December there are many holidays so please keep this in mind when scheduling the vaccine for your child. Also, schedule the second dose at the completion of the first dose.
Q: How long does it take for the vaccine to be effective?
A: According to the CDC you are considered “fully vaccinated” two weeks after the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine. If it has not been two weeks since the second dose, continue to keep taking precautions such as wearing a mask, social distancing, avoiding large groups and hand washing.
Q: Are these vaccines going to be mandated by the schools?
A: At this time, there are no federal, state, or local COVID-19 vaccine mandates for any child. According to the CDC, “State laws establish vaccination requirements for school children. These laws often apply not only to children attending public schools but also to those attending private schools and day care facilities. All states provide medical exemptions, and some state laws also offer exemptions for religious and/or philosophical reasons. State laws also establish mechanisms for enforcement of school vaccination requirements and exemptions.”
Q: My child also needs a flu vaccine. Which one should I schedule first?
A: According to the CDC and its Advisory Committee on Immunizations Practices, these two vaccines can be administered at the same time.
Q: Can my older child still get the vaccine?
A: Yes, the COVID-19 vaccine is available to children 12 years of age and older. Contact your child’s healthcare provider to schedule an appointment.
Q: Where can I get a vaccine for my child?
A: Contact your child’s healthcare provider first to determine if the practice is offering COVID-19 vaccines as not all physician offices will be offering the vaccine. Other resources may include a vaccination clinic, your local pharmacy, a community vaccination site, church, school, or other facilities. Some locations may have walk-in hours.
Q: How do I prepare my child for the COVID vaccine?
A: The following checklist will help prepare you for your child’s vaccine:
- Check to see if your child is up-to-date on all immunizations.
- If not, call your pediatrician to schedule those as well.
- Contact your pediatrician with any questions or concerns you may have.
- Schedule a vaccine appointment.
- Be certain your child is receiving the Pfizer vaccine. This is the only vaccine approved for children 5-11.
- Schedule your child’s second dose as soon as the first dose is completed.
- You will receive a vaccine card. Take a picture of it or make a copy and keep in a safe place.
- Do not share the card on social media.
- After the second dose, make sure that your child’s healthcare provider has a copy if you had the vaccine at a location outside of your child’s pediatrician’s office.
For more information on how to prepare your child for the COVID-19 vaccine, visit https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/COVID-19/Pages/Getting-Your-Child-Ready-for-the-COVID-19-Vaccine.aspx
CDC/AAP Updates
Children and teens can get sick with COVID-19 even though fewer children than adults have been sick with the virus. Most children have mild or no symptoms, and those with no symptoms (asymptomatic) can still spread the virus to others. Children can also get severely ill, and may even require hospitalization. The best protection is to be aware of the symptoms of COVID-19 in children and practice safety guidelines promoted by the CDC and other health agencies, which include wearing a face covering, washing hands frequently, using hand sanitizer, and practicing social distancing.
If you have concerns about whether or not your child has COVID-19, call your pediatrician to determine next steps. #COVID19Symptoms #Name of Practice
(Source: www.cdc.gov)
COVID Testing for Children
(Source: www.healthychildren.org)
Should My Child Be Tested for COVID?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, if you are concerned that your child has been exposed to COVID-19 or is exhibiting symptoms of COVID, your best resource is your child’s pediatrician.The pediatrician can help you decide when, and if, your child should be tested. If tested, your child’s pediatrician can also help inform and guide you on “next steps,” based on the results. Your pediatrician is your best resource for all your questions and concerns about COVID-19 and your child. #COVIDTesting #NameofPractice
When Should My Child Be Tested for COVID?
- My child is experiencing symptoms.
- My child is scheduled to have a medical procedure or surgery.
- My child has been exposed and is participating in sports.
- My child has been exposed at school.
- My child has been exposed at work.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, if your child has been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19, wait at least 4 days after exposure to be tested, unless experiencing symptoms. If experiencing symptoms, call your pediatrician now.
For more information on when testing may be advised, visit www.healthychildren.org or call your
pediatrician at xxx-xxxx. #COVIDTesting #NameofPractice
(Source: www. healthychildren.org)
Does My Child Have COVID-19?
(Name of Practice) is now providing Covid-19 testing using (identify type of test-PCR or antigen*). You should receive results (indicate timing, such as within 1-3 days, etc.) If your child is showing symptoms or has recently been exposed to someone with COVID-19, call your pediatrician now to determine whether testing is needed. After your child is tested, the pediatrician will explain the results and guide you through “next steps.” #COVIDTesting #NameofPractice
*These tests will not tell you if your child had COVID-19 in the past.
What kind of COVID-19 Testing is Available for Children?
According to the AAP, there are two types of COVID-19 tests that are being used for children—a diagnostic test to determine if your child has the virus and an antibody test to determine if your child had the virus at some point in the past.
Your child’s pediatrician can help you better understand what each test can and cannot do, and whether or not your child needs to be tested.
Option 1 to end post:
If you have questions about whether or not your child needs to be tested, call xxx-xxxx to speak with us.
#COVIDTesting #NameofPractice
Option 2 to end post:
(Name of practice) is currently offering (include which type of test is being used). If your child is experiencing symptoms or has been exposed to COVID-19, call xxx-xxxx to speak with your pediatrician who will assist and guide you on “next steps.” #COVIDTesting #NameofPractice
Traveling Safely During the Pandemic
To Clean or Not to Clean? Keeping My Child’s Car Seat Free from COVID
While you may be cleaning other parts of your car with a disinfecting wipe to help prevent the spread of COVID, cleaning car seats and seat belts is different. A disinfecting chemical may cause damage to the seat belts leading to the car seat or seat belts, resulting in the seat belt failing during an car crash.
Because car seats, booster seats and seat belts cannot be disinfected, the AAP recommends using a mild detergent and water. Check the owner’s manual to find out which cleaning products to use.
For more information on travel safety during the pandemic, visit https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/COVID-19/Pages/Travel-Safety-During-the-Pandemic.aspx
(Source: www.healthychildren.org)
Tips on how to keep my child’s car seat safe after exposure to COVID-19
If someone has tested positive for COVID, or has been exposed, and has been in your car, follow these safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Buses, Trains and Airplanes—How to Stay Safe When Using Mass or Public Transportation
This type of transportation usually includes many passengers in smaller areas. This provides an opportunity for COVID-19 to spread easily and quickly. The CDC recommends that if you must use transportation such as those listed above, you should try to remain at a safe social distant as much as possible. You and your family should wear face coverings and use hand sanitizer frequently throughout your trip. When you arrive at your destination you should wash your hands and consider changing into clean clothes.
Complicating Factors Related to COVID-19
According to the CDC, babies under 1 year of age may be more likely to have a severe illness from COVID-19. All children with other complicating conditions may also be at more risk of a severe illness compared to other children. These include:
- Asthma or chronic lung disease
- Diabetes
- Genetic, neurologic or metabolic conditions
- Sickle Cell Disease
- Congenital heart disease
- A weakened immune disease
- Medically complex children
- Obesity
If you have concerns about whether or not your child has COVID-19, call your pediatrician to determine next steps. #COVID19Symptoms #Name of Practice
(Source: www.healthychildren.gov)
Don’t Let Down Your Guard
Even though the new vaccines have rolled out and people across the country are getting vaccinated, don’t let down your guard. Continue to practice those CDC guidelines that have kept you and your family safe.
- Wear a face mask
- Wash hands frequently
- Maintain social distancing
- Use hand sanitizer
- Avoid large crowds
Continue to protect you and your family from COVID-19. #ProtectMyFamily #NameofPractice