A December 3 memo from State Health Commissioner Dr. Norm Oliver to clinicians includes an update on: the Omicron variant; a CDC advisory about increasing seasonal influenza; and upcoming webinars on monoclonal antibodies and COVID-19 vaccines.

We encourage you to read the memo in its entirety as these notes below to not encompass all of the information in the memo.

Omicron Variant

Regarding the Omicron variant, the memo offers reminders about “the importance of layered protection strategies such as getting vaccinated and getting a booster dose if eligible, physical distancing, masking, avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated spaces, washing hands, and testing and isolating if needed. Vaccination remains the most important tool to help prevent the spread of variants.”

Also of note, the memo mentions that the CDC recently strengthened booster recommendations in response to the Omicron variant. All individuals 18 and older should receive a booster dose at least six months after completing their mRNA (i.e., Pfizer or Moderna(series) or at least two months after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Previously, CDC stated that people aged 18 to 49 years may receive a booster dose at least six months after completing their mRNA series. The CDC updated the Interim Clinical Considerations for the Use of COVID-19 Vaccines Currently Approved or Authorized in the United States to reflect this change.

Influenza

The memo urges clinicians to recommend and offer influenza vaccines now. Evidence suggests that even when the vaccine does not prevent infection, it can help to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Flu vaccines can be given at the same time as the primary series or booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines.

The memo also explains the SARS-CoV-2 and influenza testing and treatment recommendations, as well as antiviral postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) in congregate settings like long term care facilities.

Upcoming Webinars

VDH will be hosting webinars on December 6 and 7 on monoclonal antibodies and a COVID-19 vaccine update on December 15. Links for these events are provided in the memo.