As the healthcare industry continues its vigilant fight against respiratory infections, recent developments underscore the need for informed, proactive measures. In this digest, we focus on critical updates about respiratory pathogens – especially the H5N1 bird flu – to aid your infection control and prevention strategies.
Key Changes in Pathogen Terminology
The World Health Organization (WHO) has formally introduced updated terminology for airborne pathogens, impacting how respiratory illnesses are communicated and addressed globally. This shift aims to standardize terms like “infectious respiratory particles,” replacing outdated dichotomies such as “aerosols” and “droplets.”
The WHO argues that infectious respiratory particles exist in a continuum of sizes, and no single criterion should be applied to distinguish smaller particles from larger ones. Previous terms implied such size differentiation.
This clarity is essential for infection control specialists who rely on precise communication for effective intervention, particularly after the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the WHO, “The pathogens covered include those that cause respiratory infections, e.g. COVID-19, influenza, measles, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and tuberculosis, among others.”
Revised RSV Vaccine Recommendations
In June, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its RSV vaccine guidance for individuals 60 and over. This adjustment emphasizes the necessity for high-risk groups to receive vaccinations before the RSV season, ensuring protection against severe respiratory diseases. The CDC suggests all adults ages 75 and older receive one dose of the vaccine. This recommendation was also made for all adults ages 60-74 who are at higher risk, such as those with chronic heart and lung conditions.
Currently, the RSV vaccine is not annual, meaning people don’t need to get it every year. Vaccination against RSV can be received anytime, but getting vaccinated before RSV spreads in communities in late summer and early fall is advisable.
For infection control specialists, this change means necessary adjustments to vaccination campaigns and patient counseling to align with the latest guidelines.
H5N1 Bird Flu Concerns Continue
The H5N1 bird flu has made headlines with 68 confirmed cases in 11 states, marking a significant cause for concern for healthcare facilities nationwide. In October, the CDC confirmed two human cases in California, signifying further spread in western states.
As reported by the CDC, most cases originated from occupational exposure to infected dairy cows or poultry. While there are clearly zoonotic risks associated with this virus, wider public risk remains low. However, history shows high mortality rates linked to H5N1, making vigilance crucial.
Efforts focus on monitoring and managing potential outbreaks, particularly in areas with confirmed animal-to-human transmission. For infection control decision-makers, this emphasizes the importance of best practices in watchfulness, early detection, and containment to prevent widespread impact.
New National Vaccine Awareness Campaign
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has launched the “Risk Less. Do More.” campaign, promoting awareness about vaccinations for influenza, COVID-19, and RSV among high-risk populations.
This initiative aims to minimize severe illnesses and hospitalizations during the colder months. This campaign is a resource for infection control specialists to support local vaccine advocacy and education efforts.
By staying informed and updated with the latest news, healthcare professionals are better equipped to safeguard their environments and communities against pressing respiratory threats.
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