Dear USET/USET SPF Family,
This alert is being shared to provide timely information regarding immunizations as a preventative measure and therapeutic options against the increase of respiratory pathogens during this respiratory season.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently published a Health Advisory warning healthcare workers about nationally low vaccination rates against influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). USET TEC emphasizes the importance of influenza, COVID-19, and RSV immunizations for all eligible people, particularly high-risk individuals such as elders, pregnant people, children, and those with underlying medical conditions. Over the past few weeks, hospitalizations have increased among all age groups by 200% for influenza, 51% for COVID-19, and 60% for RSV.
As of December 2, 2023, national vaccination rates are low. More specifically, COVID-19, and RSV vaccination rates for children under 18, particularly children under 2 years of age, are low both nationally and for American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) populations. While this is concerning, USET member Tribal Nations are doing well in promoting vaccinations, with the IHS Nashville Area having the second-highest influenza vaccination rate for elders over 65 compared to the other IHS Areas. The respiratory season peaks from December to February. Now is the time to continue to encourage vaccines to reduce transmission of viruses and help prevent severe disease, secondary bacterial infections, hospitalizations, and potential death.
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