Though the original COVID-19 drama appears to have waned, infectious disease and medication management experts are guarded heading into this fall’s flu season.
“Something new this year is that two new vaccines were recently approved by the FDA to protect against pneumonia due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in adults age 60 and over,” said Erica Johnson, chair of the Infectious Disease Board of the American Board of Internal Medicine.
“While there has been a fair amount of media attention surrounding the new vaccine [for seniors], it may prove to be a bit more challenging to incorporate into the core group of routine vaccines we are accustomed to,” warned Erin Marriott, RPh, director of clinical and regulatory support at Guardian Pharmacy Services.
Erin Donatelli, PharmD, vice president of clinical and consulting services for Remedi SeniorCare, stressed that treatment options and outbreak procedures for COVID and flu should follow a tight timeline after symptoms or a positive test.
Pharmacists and others expressed confidence in the preparation and efficacy of new COVID boosters and vaccines. Still, work remains to be done..
“As a country, we are still dealing with misinformation, mandates and some poor communications from government leaders,” said Chad Worz, PharmD, chief executive of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists. “It will take a huge effort by doctors, nurses and pharmacists to rebuild confidence in vaccines.”
Meanwhile, experts are mixed about a repeat of drug shortages. Andrew Agan, a spokesperson for Guardian Pharmacy Services, said “drug shortages remain a huge issue impacting skilled nursing. From atropine to lidocaine, there’s a large list of drugs currently in shortage.”
As for parting advice, experts have plenty.
“Get ahead of potential outbreaks,” said Worz. Vaccinate and evaluate residents in anticipation of needed antiviral treatments that could involve possible interactions with other medications.
And finally, “work collaboratively with your pharmacy partner on securing access to any of the needed vaccines,” said Marriott.
From the October 2023 Issue of McKnight's Long-Term Care News
