Physician RSV Resources |
Influenza and respiratory illness season is upon us. We are aware of rising rates of infection, severe illness, and hospitalization among our pediatric populations in Iowa, particularly with RSV. The American Academy of Pediatrics has released a number of resources to assist providers in managing patient populations and workforce considerations during this time of increasing rates.
Compounding the rise in pediatric respiratory illness is a nationwide amoxicillin shortage. IMS is engaging with health system partners and health department leadership to assist in system-wide strategies to help mitigate the impact of this shortage. In the interim, AAP has provided this guidance for antibiotic options in lieu of amoxicillin availability.
Outpatient Antibiotic Handbook – Children’s Mercy Kansas City
Drug Shortage or Supply Issue Reporting to FDA
The AAP offers updated recommendations for caring for patients during surges in volume in all practice settings, including ambulatory care, community hospitals, and tertiary or children's hospitals. AAP has also updated its interim guidance on the use of palivizumab prophylaxis, including the option to offer more than 5 doses.
The Health and Human Services Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response launched a website to help address the current pediatric surge in respiratory illnesses that is impacting hospital capacity nationwide. The website includes a resource library, assistance center and an information exchange discussion board to allow for near-real time engagement among users. ASPR is encouraging stakeholders who work in health care, emergency preparedness and management, and disaster medicine to engage and share these materials.