In the latest vaccine news, Pfizer's pediatric COVID-19 vaccine rollout has been delayed until further notice. The company has notified the FDA of new data that is currently under investigation. Iowa healthcare providers will NOT be receiving shipments of the pediatric Pfizer vaccine for ages 6 months-4 years on February 21st. 

Last Friday, the CDC updated its COVID-19 vaccine recommendations for immunocompromised patients. Those who are moderately to severely immunocompromised may now receive a booster shot three months after their third dose, instead of five months after. Immunocompromised patients are considered up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccines if they have received three doses of a mRNA primary vaccine series and a booster, totaling four doses. Immunocompromised patients who started with a J&J vaccine should receive a mRNA additional dose followed by a booster, totaling three doses.  

The updated CDC guidance also eliminates the need to delay vaccination following receipt of monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma. The contraindication and precaution section now includes history of myocarditis or pericarditis after an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. Click here to review all recent changes.

In regards to therapies, the FDA recently issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for a new monoclonal antibody, bebtelovimab, for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in adults and pediatric patients (12 years of age and older) with a positive COVID-19 test and who are at high-risk for progression to severe COVID-19. Click here to read frequently asked questions on the use of bebtelovimab. As of Monday, February 14, the state of Iowa has started to receive allocations of the new antibody.

The FDA has also addressed concerns regarding mailed at-home COVID-19 tests being left in the cold. The agency recommends leaving the test unopened at room temperature for at least two hours before opening and performing the test. 

In addition, University of Iowa Healthcare has shared tips and talking points for discussing COVID-19 vaccines during patient visits. Click here to download. Public Health Communications Collaborative has also released a booster dose toolkit with messaging to share with your patients.