Federal Housing Administration Expands Mortgage Eligibility for Borrowers previously affected by COVID-19 | site |
Updated guidance issued today provides new flexibility for lenders when calculating “effective income” for borrowers with previous employment gaps or loss of income due to a COVID-19 economic event.
Information contained in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) press release dated: July 7, 2022
Washington, D.C. - - The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) announced on Thursday new flexibility for lenders when qualifying borrowers who experienced previous employment gaps or loss of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through updates contained in Mortgagee Letter 2022-09, salaried and hourly wage-earners, as well as self-employed individuals affected by COVID-19, who now have stable income will have a greater opportunity to purchase a home using affordable FHA-insured mortgage financing.
“The changes we ar...
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FHA Expands Mortgage Eligibility for Borrowers previously affected by COVID-19
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CDC says COVID-19 Reverses Progress in Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance in U.S.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says COVID-19 Reverses Progress in Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance in U.S. | site |
Hospitalization related infections grew 15% from 2019 to 2020
Information contained in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention press release dated: July 12, 2022
The COVID-19 pandemic pushed back years of progress made combating antimicrobial resistance (AR) in the United States. The report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19: U.S. Impact on Antimicrobial Resistance, Special Report 2022, concludes that the threat of antimicrobial-resistant infections is not only still present but has gotten worse—with resistant hospital-onset infections and deaths both increasing at least 15% during the first year of the pandemic. “This setback can and must be temporary. The COVID-19 pandemic has unmistakably shown us that antimicrobi... -
Remarks by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Becerra at the Global COVID-19 Summit
Remarks by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Becerra at the Global COVID-19 Summit | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) press release dated: May 12, 2022
Xavier Becerra
May 12, 2022
Second Global COVID-19 Summit
Virtual Event
On Thursday, May 12, 2022, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra delivered remarks at the second Global COVID-19 Summit, co-hosted by the United States, Belize, Germany, Indonesia, and Senegal. During the Summit, Secretary Becerra discussed our continued fight against the COVID-19 pandemic—getting shots in arms, enhancing access to tests and treatments, protecting the health workforce, and financing and building health security for future pandemics and other health crises.
... -
FCC announces new Covid-19 TeleHealth Program Awards totaling nearly 42 Million Dollars to Health Care Providers in every State and Territory
Federal Communications Commission announces new Covid-19 TeleHealth Program Awards totaling nearly $42 Million to Health Care Providers in every State and Territory | site |
(Information contained in Federal Communications Commission [FCC] press release dated: August 26, 2021)
Washington, August 26, 2021 - - The Federal Communications Commission today approved an initial set of 62 applications for funding commitments totaling $41.98 million for Round 2 of its COVID-19 Telehealth Program. Health care providers in each state, territory, and the District of Columbia, including those previously unfunded in Round 1, will use this funding to provide telehealth services during the coronavirus pandemic. The FCC’s COVID-19 Telehealth Program supports the efforts of health care providers to continue serving their patients by providing reimbursement for telecommunications services, information services, and connected devices necessary to enable telehealth... -
U.S. Education Dept says New Guidance Reaffirms Importance of Full Implementation of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
U.S. Education Dept says New Guidance Reaffirms Importance of Full Implementation of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
U.S. Department of Education says Regardless of the COVID-19 pandemic or the mode of instruction, children with disabilities are entitled to receive a free, appropriate, public education
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: August 24, 2021)
Today, the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) sent a letter to its state and local partners reiterating its commitment to ensuring children with disabilities and their families have successful early intervention and educational experiences in the 2021-2022 school year. This letter outlines a series of question and answers (Q&As) as children and students return to in-person learning. The Q&As focus on topics to help ens... -
FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance State-by-State Breakdown
Federal Emergency Management Agency COVID-19 Funeral Assistance State-by-State Breakdown | site |
(Information contained in Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA] press release dated: August 23, 2021)
Washington - - FEMA has provided over $1.044 billion to nearly 159,000 people to assist with COVID-19-related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020.
Eligibility determinations are not driven by state/location; instead, they are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation.
“Applications” in the below chart reflect the number of individuals who called to begin the assistance process.
Please find state-specific information below:
... -
Joint Statement from HHS Public Health and Medical Experts on COVID-19 Booster Shots
Joint Statement from HHS Public Health and Medical Experts on COVID-19 Booster Shots | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services press release dated: August 18, 2021)
"Today, public health and medical experts from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released the following statement on the Administration’s plan for COVID-19 booster shots for the American people." The statement is attributable to Dr. Rochelle Walensky, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); Dr. Janet Woodcock, Acting Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration (FDA); Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General; Dr. Francis Collins, Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH); Dr. Anthony Fauci, Chief Medical Advisor to President Joe Biden and Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID); Dr. Rachel Levine, Assistant Secretary for Health; Dr.... -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs expands Mandate for COVID-19 Vaccines among VHA Employees
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs expands Mandate for COVID-19 Vaccines among VHA Employees | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs [VA] press release dated: August 12, 2021) Washington - - Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough will expand his previous COVID-19 vaccine mandate Friday, Aug. 13, to apply to most Veterans Health Administration employees and volunteers and contractors who work in VHA facilities, visit VHA facilities or otherwise come into contact with VA patients and healthcare workers as part of their duties. Under the expanded mandate, employees who will need to be vaccinated include Hybrid Title 38 and Title 5 VA health care personnel — such as psychologists, pharmacists, social workers, nursing assistants, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, peer specialists, medical support assistants, engineers, housekeepers and other clinical, administrative and infr... -
FEMA’s COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Tops 1 Billion Dollars
Federal Emergency Management Agency's COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Tops $1 Billion
| site |
Applications for Funeral Assistance Remain Open to People in Need
(Information contained in Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA] press release dated: August 13, 2021)
Washington - - FEMA announced today it has provided over $1 billion in COVID-19 funeral assistance to support more than 150,000 applicants grappling with the financial stress and burden caused by the pandemic. Earlier this year, the agency began providing financial assistance for COVID-19-related funeral expenses. FEMA continues to accept applications to support underserved communities and encourages more to apply. “This pandemic has had an immense impact on our country,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Too many people have lost family members, friends, co-workers and neighbors to COVID-19. FEMA's Funeral + + censored term replaced + ++ + censored term replaced + ++ + censored term replaced + +... -
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Data Shows Vulnerable Americans Forgoing Mental Health Care During COVID-19 Pandemic
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Data Shows Vulnerable Americans Forgoing Mental Health Care During COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
(Information contained in Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services press release dated: May 14, 2021)
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released data today highlighting the continued impact the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) is having on Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) beneficiaries and utilization of health services. The data show that, from March through October 2020, beneficiaries have foregone millions of primary, preventive, and mental health care visits due to the COVID-19 PHE, compared to the same time period in 2019. Although utilization rates for some treatments have rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, mental health services show the slowest rebound. This decline in utilization is occurring at a time when preliminary evidence shows menta... -
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg Announces 1.69 Billion Dollars for Amtrak in Response to COVID-19
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg Announces $1.69 Billion for Amtrak in Response to COVID-19 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Railroad Administration press release dated: April 27, 2021) Washington - - U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg today announced that the Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is making more than $1.69 billion available to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) to provide relief from the impacts of COVID-19 to the company’s business operations, workforce, and state funding partners. The funding is provided under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. “Help is here. The President’s American Rescue Plan is already delivering for workers and the traveling public,” said Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “This new assistance for Amtrak will get employees back to work and restore service on routes across the country, at a time ... -
HHS Awards 40 Million Dollars in American Rescue Plan Funding to Support Emergency Home Visiting Assistance for Families Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Awards $40 Million in American Rescue Plan Funding to Support Emergency Home Visiting Assistance for Families Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] press release dated: May 11, 2021) Today, in recognition of National Women’s Health Week, and thanks to the American Rescue Plan, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), awarded approximately $40 million in emergency home visiting funds to states, territories, and the District of Columbia to support children and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program supports the delivery of coordinated and comprehensive, high quality, voluntary, evidence-based home visiting services to children and families living in communities at risk for... -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs releases Report detailing Efforts to address COVID-19 Pandemic
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs releases Report detailing Efforts to address COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs [VA] press release dated: May 11, 2021) Washington - - The Department of Veterans Affairs published a second installment report identifying the department’s strategic response from July 1, 2020 to Jan. 1, 2021, to address the COVID-19 pandemic. The results are a continuation of VA’s pledge to share best practices and lessons learned with other government agencies and the private health care system while the country continues to fight COVID-19. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 Response Report Annex A concludes that overall, VA has aligned responsibilities, communicated with stakeholders and employed an operational concept that produced an effective response in support of Veterans and communities around the country. “We created this document so medical professionals can learn from our eff... -
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Increases Medicare Payment for COVID-19 Monoclonal Antibody Infusions
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Increases Medicare Payment for COVID-19 Monoclonal Antibody Infusions | site |
New payment policy for at-home administration
(Information contained in Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services press release dated: May 6, 2021) As part of the ongoing response to address the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has increased the Medicare payment rate for administering monoclonal antibodies to treat beneficiaries with COVID-19, continuing coverage under the Medicare Part B COVID-19 vaccine benefit. Beneficiaries pay nothing out of pocket, regardless of where the service is furnished – including in a physician’s office, healthcare facility or at home. Effective today, the national average payment rate will increase from $310 to $450 for most health care settings. In support of providers’ efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19, CMS will also establish... -
FDA Coronavirus COVID-19 Update - - - FDA Revokes Emergency Use Authorization for Monoclonal Antibody Bamlanivimab
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Revokes Emergency Use Authorization for Monoclonal Antibody Bamlanivimab | site |
FDA says "Alternative monoclonal antibody therapies authorized to treat patients with COVID-19 remain available"
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: April 16, 2021)
Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration revoked the emergency use authorization (EUA) that allowed for the investigational monoclonal antibody therapy bamlanivimab, when administered alone, to be used for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults and certain pediatric patients. Based on its ongoing analysis of emerging scientific data, specifically the sustained increase of SARS-CoV-2 viral variants that are resistant to bamlanivimab alone resulting in the increased risk for treatment failure, the FDA has determined that the known and potential...
-
Federal Housing Administration Expands Mortgage Eligibility for Borrowers previously affected by COVID-19 | site |
Updated guidance issued today provides new flexibility for lenders when calculating “effective income” for borrowers with previous employment gaps or loss of income due to a COVID-19 economic event.
Information contained in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) press release dated: July 7, 2022 Washington, D.C. - - The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) announced on Thursday new flexibility for lenders when qualifying borrowers who experienced previous employment gaps or loss of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Through updates contained in Mortgagee Letter 2022-09, salaried and hourly wage-earners, as well as self-employed individuals affected by COVID-19, who now have stable income will have a greater opportunity to purchase a home using affordable FHA-insured mortgage financing. “The changes we ar...07-15-2022, 09:12 PM -
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says COVID-19 Reverses Progress in Fight Against Antimicrobial Resistance in U.S. | site |
Hospitalization related infections grew 15% from 2019 to 2020
Information contained in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention press release dated: July 12, 2022
The COVID-19 pandemic pushed back years of progress made combating antimicrobial resistance (AR) in the United States. The report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19: U.S. Impact on Antimicrobial Resistance, Special Report 2022, concludes that the threat of antimicrobial-resistant infections is not only still present but has gotten worse—with resistant hospital-onset infections and deaths both increasing at least 15% during the first year of the pandemic. “This setback can and must be temporary. The COVID-19 pandemic has unmistakably shown us that antimicrobi...07-15-2022, 06:33 AM -
Remarks by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Becerra at the Global COVID-19 Summit | site |
Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) press release dated: May 12, 2022
Xavier Becerra
May 12, 2022
Second Global COVID-19 Summit
Virtual Event
On Thursday, May 12, 2022, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra delivered remarks at the second Global COVID-19 Summit, co-hosted by the United States, Belize, Germany, Indonesia, and Senegal. During the Summit, Secretary Becerra discussed our continued fight against the COVID-19 pandemic—getting shots in arms, enhancing access to tests and treatments, protecting the health workforce, and financing and building health security for future pandemics and other health crises.
...05-17-2022, 03:47 AM -
Federal Communications Commission announces new Covid-19 TeleHealth Program Awards totaling nearly $42 Million to Health Care Providers in every State and Territory | site |
(Information contained in Federal Communications Commission [FCC] press release dated: August 26, 2021)
Washington, August 26, 2021 - - The Federal Communications Commission today approved an initial set of 62 applications for funding commitments totaling $41.98 million for Round 2 of its COVID-19 Telehealth Program. Health care providers in each state, territory, and the District of Columbia, including those previously unfunded in Round 1, will use this funding to provide telehealth services during the coronavirus pandemic. The FCC’s COVID-19 Telehealth Program supports the efforts of health care providers to continue serving their patients by providing reimbursement for telecommunications services, information services, and connected devices necessary to enable telehealth...08-28-2021, 11:03 PM -
U.S. Education Dept says New Guidance Reaffirms Importance of Full Implementation of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
U.S. Department of Education says Regardless of the COVID-19 pandemic or the mode of instruction, children with disabilities are entitled to receive a free, appropriate, public education
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: August 24, 2021)
Today, the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) sent a letter to its state and local partners reiterating its commitment to ensuring children with disabilities and their families have successful early intervention and educational experiences in the 2021-2022 school year. This letter outlines a series of question and answers (Q&As) as children and students return to in-person learning. The Q&As focus on topics to help ens...08-25-2021, 01:00 PM -
Federal Emergency Management Agency COVID-19 Funeral Assistance State-by-State Breakdown | site |
(Information contained in Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA] press release dated: August 23, 2021)
Washington - - FEMA has provided over $1.044 billion to nearly 159,000 people to assist with COVID-19-related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020.
Eligibility determinations are not driven by state/location; instead, they are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation.
“Applications” in the below chart reflect the number of individuals who called to begin the assistance process.
Please find state-specific information below:
...08-24-2021, 05:47 AM -
Joint Statement from HHS Public Health and Medical Experts on COVID-19 Booster Shots | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services press release dated: August 18, 2021)
"Today, public health and medical experts from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released the following statement on the Administration’s plan for COVID-19 booster shots for the American people." The statement is attributable to Dr. Rochelle Walensky, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); Dr. Janet Woodcock, Acting Commissioner, Food and Drug Administration (FDA); Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General; Dr. Francis Collins, Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH); Dr. Anthony Fauci, Chief Medical Advisor to President Joe Biden and Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID); Dr. Rachel Levine, Assistant Secretary for Health; Dr....08-20-2021, 06:59 AM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs expands Mandate for COVID-19 Vaccines among VHA Employees | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs [VA] press release dated: August 12, 2021) Washington - - Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough will expand his previous COVID-19 vaccine mandate Friday, Aug. 13, to apply to most Veterans Health Administration employees and volunteers and contractors who work in VHA facilities, visit VHA facilities or otherwise come into contact with VA patients and healthcare workers as part of their duties. Under the expanded mandate, employees who will need to be vaccinated include Hybrid Title 38 and Title 5 VA health care personnel — such as psychologists, pharmacists, social workers, nursing assistants, physical therapists, respiratory therapists, peer specialists, medical support assistants, engineers, housekeepers and other clinical, administrative and infr...08-16-2021, 05:03 AM -
Federal Emergency Management Agency's COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Tops $1 Billion
| site |
Applications for Funeral Assistance Remain Open to People in Need
(Information contained in Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA] press release dated: August 13, 2021)
Washington - - FEMA announced today it has provided over $1 billion in COVID-19 funeral assistance to support more than 150,000 applicants grappling with the financial stress and burden caused by the pandemic. Earlier this year, the agency began providing financial assistance for COVID-19-related funeral expenses. FEMA continues to accept applications to support underserved communities and encourages more to apply. “This pandemic has had an immense impact on our country,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Too many people have lost family members, friends, co-workers and neighbors to COVID-19. FEMA's Funeral + + censored term replaced + ++ + censored term replaced + ++ + censored term replaced + +...08-14-2021, 10:43 PM -
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Data Shows Vulnerable Americans Forgoing Mental Health Care During COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
(Information contained in Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services press release dated: May 14, 2021)
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released data today highlighting the continued impact the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE) is having on Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) beneficiaries and utilization of health services. The data show that, from March through October 2020, beneficiaries have foregone millions of primary, preventive, and mental health care visits due to the COVID-19 PHE, compared to the same time period in 2019. Although utilization rates for some treatments have rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, mental health services show the slowest rebound. This decline in utilization is occurring at a time when preliminary evidence shows menta...05-15-2021, 06:25 PM -
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg Announces $1.69 Billion for Amtrak in Response to COVID-19 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Railroad Administration press release dated: April 27, 2021) Washington - - U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg today announced that the Department of Transportation’s Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is making more than $1.69 billion available to the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) to provide relief from the impacts of COVID-19 to the company’s business operations, workforce, and state funding partners. The funding is provided under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. “Help is here. The President’s American Rescue Plan is already delivering for workers and the traveling public,” said Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “This new assistance for Amtrak will get employees back to work and restore service on routes across the country, at a time ...05-13-2021, 03:39 AM -
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Awards $40 Million in American Rescue Plan Funding to Support Emergency Home Visiting Assistance for Families Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] press release dated: May 11, 2021) Today, in recognition of National Women’s Health Week, and thanks to the American Rescue Plan, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), awarded approximately $40 million in emergency home visiting funds to states, territories, and the District of Columbia to support children and families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program supports the delivery of coordinated and comprehensive, high quality, voluntary, evidence-based home visiting services to children and families living in communities at risk for...05-12-2021, 02:07 AM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs releases Report detailing Efforts to address COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs [VA] press release dated: May 11, 2021) Washington - - The Department of Veterans Affairs published a second installment report identifying the department’s strategic response from July 1, 2020 to Jan. 1, 2021, to address the COVID-19 pandemic. The results are a continuation of VA’s pledge to share best practices and lessons learned with other government agencies and the private health care system while the country continues to fight COVID-19. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 Response Report Annex A concludes that overall, VA has aligned responsibilities, communicated with stakeholders and employed an operational concept that produced an effective response in support of Veterans and communities around the country. “We created this document so medical professionals can learn from our eff...05-11-2021, 08:26 PM -
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Increases Medicare Payment for COVID-19 Monoclonal Antibody Infusions | site |
New payment policy for at-home administration
(Information contained in Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services press release dated: May 6, 2021) As part of the ongoing response to address the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has increased the Medicare payment rate for administering monoclonal antibodies to treat beneficiaries with COVID-19, continuing coverage under the Medicare Part B COVID-19 vaccine benefit. Beneficiaries pay nothing out of pocket, regardless of where the service is furnished – including in a physician’s office, healthcare facility or at home. Effective today, the national average payment rate will increase from $310 to $450 for most health care settings. In support of providers’ efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19, CMS will also establish...05-06-2021, 09:28 PM -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Revokes Emergency Use Authorization for Monoclonal Antibody Bamlanivimab | site |
FDA says "Alternative monoclonal antibody therapies authorized to treat patients with COVID-19 remain available"
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: April 16, 2021)
Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration revoked the emergency use authorization (EUA) that allowed for the investigational monoclonal antibody therapy bamlanivimab, when administered alone, to be used for the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19 in adults and certain pediatric patients. Based on its ongoing analysis of emerging scientific data, specifically the sustained increase of SARS-CoV-2 viral variants that are resistant to bamlanivimab alone resulting in the increased risk for treatment failure, the FDA has determined that the known and potential...04-17-2021, 11:36 PM -
U.S. Department of Education Releases "COVID-19 Handbook, Volume 2: Roadmap to Reopening Safely and Meeting All Students' Needs" | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department Education press release dated: April 9, 2021)
Today, the U.S. Department of Education (Department) released the COVID-19 Handbook, Volume 2: Roadmap to Reopening Safely and Meeting All Students' Needs to provide additional strategies for safely reopening all of America's schools and to promote educational equity by addressing opportunity gaps that have been exacerbated by the pandemic.
Building off of Volume 1: Strategies for Safely Reopening Elementary and Secondary Schools, which focused on health and safety measures that schools can use to successfully implement the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) K-12 Operational Strategy, Volume 2 of the Handbook focuses on research-based strategies to address the social, emotional,...04-13-2021, 05:02 PM -
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Awards $3 Billion to Expand COVID-19 Vaccine Programs | site |
CDC says Funding can be used for innovative partnerships with community-based organizations to increase vaccine uptake, including in underserved populations
(Information contained in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention press release dated: April 6, 2021)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has awarded funding to support local efforts to increase vaccine uptake by expanding COVID-19 vaccine programs and ensuring greater equity and access to vaccine by those disproportionately affected by SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The awards are part of $3 billion in funding that CDC has granted to 64 jurisdictions to bolster broad-based vaccine distribution, access, and administration efforts. The funding was made available by the American Rescue Plan and the Coronavirus Response an...04-09-2021, 01:13 AM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA takes Steps to Streamline Path for COVID-19 screening tools, provides Information to Help Groups establishing Testing Programs | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: March 16, 2021)
The following is attributed to Jeff Shuren, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health, and Tim Stenzel, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Office of In Vitro Diagnostics in the Center for Devices and Radiological Health
March 16, 2021
Statement From:
Director - CDRH Offices: Office of the Center Director
Dr. Jeffrey E. Shuren MD, JD Testing remains an important cornerstone of our nation’s fight against COVID-19. This includes schools, workplaces, communities and other locations using testing to screen asymptomatic individuals who may still spread the virus. Screening involves testing asymptomati...03-22-2021, 07:14 PM -
Excerpt of U.S. Food and Drug Administration Coronavirus COVID-19 Update: March 12, 2021 | site |
(Excerpt of information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: March 12, 2021)- Today, the FDA issued a Letter to Clinical Laboratory Staff, Point-of-Care Facility Staff and Health Care Providers to alert them that false positive results can occur with the Roche Molecular Systems, Inc. cobas SARS-CoV-2 & Influenza A/B Nucleic Acid Test for use on the cobas Liat System.
- Today, the FDA issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Propofol-Lipuro 1% injectable emulsion for infusion to maintain sedation via continuous infusion in patients greater than 16 years old who require mechanical ventilation in an intensive care unit setting during the COVID-19 public health emergency. Propofol-Lipuro 1% injectable emulsion for infusion is not FDA-approved and has important differences in its formulation compared to FDA-approved
03-15-2021, 05:40 PM -
Biden Administration to Invest $250 Million in Effort to Encourage COVID-19 Safety and Vaccination Among Underserved Populations| site |
HHS Office of Minority Health Will Offer Localities Funding to Partner with Community Organizations to Connect Minority, Underserved Populations with Vital Services, Promote Pandemic Safety Measures (Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] press release dated: March 8, 2021) As part of President Biden's National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness today, the Administration is announcing an effort to invest $250 million to encourage COVID-19 safety and vaccination among underserved populations. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Minority Health (OMH) will offer the funding as health literacy grants to localities, who will partner with community-based organizations, to reach racial and ethnic minority, rural and other vulnerable populati...03-10-2021, 08:04 AM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Authorizes Adaptive Biotechnologies T-Detect COVID Test | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: March 5, 2021)
Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for the T-Detect COVID Test developed by Adaptive Biotechnologies. The T-Detect COVID Test is a next generation sequencing based (NGS) test to aid in identifying individuals with an adaptive T cell immune response to SARS-CoV-2, indicating recent or prior infection with SARS-CoV-2. “Today’s authorization further underscores the FDA’s commitment to innovation in test development,” said Jeff Shuren, M.D., J.D., director of FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “The T-Detect COVID Test is a novel technology that assesses the T cell immune response to COVID-19. Information and scientific data that deepen our understandi...03-08-2021, 08:12 PM -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: March 5, 2021 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: March 5, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- The FDA sent letters to 25 firms that produce and issue “FDA registration certificates” to medical device companies (including manufacturers, distributors and sellers). In the letters, the FDA is requesting that firms cease producing and issuing such registration certificates. The registration certificates often have the look of an official government document and many display the FDA logo. The FDA does not issue any type of device establishment registration certificate. Registration and listing with FDA does not denote approval or clearance of the establishment or its devices. Some device manufacturers and distributors
03-08-2021, 05:10 AM -
Biden Administration Strengthens Requirements that Plans and Issuers Cover COVID-19 Diagnostic Testing Without Cost Sharing and Ensures Providers are Reimbursed for Administering COVID-19 Vaccines to Uninsured | site |
(Information contained in Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services press release dated: February 26, 2021)
In accordance with the Executive Order President Biden signed on January 21, 2021, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), together with the Department of Labor and the Department of the Treasury, (collectively, the Departments) issued new guidance today removing barriers to COVID-19 diagnostic testing and vaccinations and strengthening requirements that plans and issuers cover diagnostic testing without cost sharing. This guidance makes clear that private group health plans and issuers generally cannot use medical screening criteria to deny coverage for COVID-19 diagnostic tests for individuals with health cove...03-08-2021, 03:01 AM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: U.S. Food and Drug Administration Issues Authorization for First Molecular Non-Prescription, At-Home Test | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: March 5, 2021) Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Cue COVID-19 Test for Home and Over The Counter (OTC) Use. The product is a molecular nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) that is intended to detect genetic material from SARS-CoV-2 virus present in the nostrils. The test is the first molecular test authorized for at-home use without a prescription. “The authorization of this new diagnostic test underscores FDA’s goal to continue supporting innovation in testing and providing flexibility to test developers with the aim of increasing the availability of accurate and reliable tests for all Americans,” said Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock, M.D. ...03-08-2021, 01:06 AM -
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas Visits FEMA COVID-19 Vaccination Facility in Philadelphia | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Homeland Security [DHS] press release dated: March 2, 2021)
Washington - - Today, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas visited operations at the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) new Community Vaccination Center (CVC) facility at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, scheduled to open tomorrow and expected to vaccinate up to 6,000 people per day. Secretary Mayorkas thanked and met with the Mayor of Philadelphia, Jim Kenney, and representatives from other partner organizations including the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management, Philadelphia Department of Public Health, and the Department of Defense. “On the first day of his administration, President Biden challenged FEMA to stand up 100 Federal...03-05-2021, 09:59 PM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: March 2, 2021 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration press release dated: March 2, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- The agency has updated its FDA COVID-19 Response At-A-Glance Summary, which provides a quick look at facts, figures and highlights on the FDA's response efforts.
- The agency issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to Quidel for its QuickVue At-Home COVID-19 Test for at-home use with a prescription. The Quidel QuickVue At-Home COVID-19 Test is an antigen test that detects proteins from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, from a nasal swab sample and gives a result in 10-15 minutes without needing to send a sample to a laboratory for analysis. The test is authorized for prescription at-home use with a self-collected nasal swab sample
03-05-2021, 07:26 PM -
Coronavirus COVID-19 Update - - - FDA Issues Authorization for Quidel QuickVue At-Home COVID-19 TestCoronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Issues Authorization for Quidel QuickVue At-Home COVID-19 Test | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: March 1, 2021)
Statement From:
Director - CDRH Offices: Office of the Center Director
Dr. Jeffrey E. Shuren MD, JD
Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Quidel QuickVue At-Home COVID-19 Test, another antigen test where certain individuals can rapidly collect and test their sample at home, without needing to send a sample to a laboratory for analysis. The QuickVue At-Home COVID-19 Test is authorized for prescription home use with self-collected anterior nasal (nares) swabs from individuals ages 14 and older or individuals ages 8 and older with swabs collected by an adult. The test is authorized for individuals suspected of COVID-19 by their healt...03-05-2021, 03:37 PM -
Federal Emergency Management Agency Supports Vaccine Distribution: COVID-19 Response Update | site |
(Information contained in Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA] press release dated: March 2, 2021)
Washington - - FEMA continues its push to speed up vaccinations across the country, supporting states as they open additional community vaccination centers this week. In addition to Pfizer and Moderna, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine will be delivered to three federal pilot community vaccination centers in California, Florida and Texas, helping to bring this unprecedented pandemic to an end. FEMA continues increasing vaccine allocations to states, tribes and territories, ensuring everyone who wants a vaccine can get one. Using data from CDC’s social vulnerability index, the agency is partnering with state leaders to identify community vaccination centers where they will be able to do the most good for the most vulnerable populations. Today, a comm...03-02-2021, 11:26 PM -
American Federation of Teachers says Nurses, Unions, Allies Urge CDC to Acknowledge Covid-19 Aerosol Transmission to Help Bring Virus Under Control | site |
AFT says "National Nurses United (NNU) and 44 allied unions and organizations, representing over 13 million members and their communities, are joining in coalition to urge the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to update its Covid-19 guidance to fully reflect the latest scientific evidence regarding SARS-CoV-2 transmission through aerosols that infected people emit when they breathe, speak, cough, sneeze, or sing."
(Information contained in American Federation of Teachers [AFT] press release dated: February 23, 2021)
Today, the undersigned unions and organizations delivered a petition with over 10,000 signatures, including scientific experts, urging the CDC to fully recognize Covid-19 aerosol transmission now. The Biden administration has made a ...03-02-2021, 10:52 PM -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Issues Emergency Use Authorization for Third COVID-19 Vaccine | site |
FDA says "Action Advances Fight Against COVID-19, Follows Comprehensive Evaluation of Available Safety, Effectiveness and Manufacturing Quality Information by FDA Career Scientists, Input from External Experts"
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press released dated: February 27, 2021) Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for the third vaccine for the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The EUA allows the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine to be distributed in the U.S for use in individuals 18 years of age and older. “The authorization of this vaccine expands the availability of vaccines, the best medical prevention method for COVID-19, to help us in the fight against...03-02-2021, 10:17 PM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: U.S. Food and Drug Administration Allows More Flexible Storage, Transportation Conditions for Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine | site |
Update Provides Alternative Temperature for Transportation and Temporary Storage for Frozen Vials Before Dilution
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: February 25, 2021) Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it is allowing undiluted frozen vials of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine to be transported and stored at conventional temperatures commonly found in pharmaceutical freezers for a period of up to two weeks. This reflects an alternative to the preferred storage of the undiluted vials in an ultra-low temperature freezer between -80ºC to -60ºC (-112ºF to -76ºF). The change is being reflected in updates to the Fact Sheet for Healthcare Providers Administering Vaccine (Vaccination Providers)....02-26-2021, 01:08 AM -
Office for Civil Rights Resolves Three Discrimination Complaints After Medstar Health System Ensures Patients With Disabilities Can Have Support Persons in Health Care Settings During Covid-19 Pandemic | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] news release dated: February 25, 2021) Today, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) at the U.S Department of Health and Human Services announces the resolution of three disability discrimination complaints to ensure that patients with disabilities are allowed access to support persons in MedStar Health hospitals and care locations during the COVID-19 pandemic. A support person may be a family member, personal care assistant, similar disability service provider, or other individual knowledgeable about the management or care of the patient who is authorized to assist the patient in making decisions. None of the individuals in the complaints had COVID-19, but all w...02-25-2021, 11:46 PM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: February 23, 2021 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: February 23, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- Yesterday, the FDA issued guidances for medical product developers, specifically covering vaccines, diagnostics and therapeutics products, to address the emergence and potential future emergence of variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19
- The FDA issued a safety communication to inform patients and health care providers that pulse oximeters have limitations and a risk of inaccuracy under certain circumstances. The Pulse Oximeter Accuracy and Limitations: FDA Safety Communication provides:
- Important recommendations for patients and their caregivers on how to use pulse oximeters at home.
- Recommendations for health
02-25-2021, 10:24 PM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Issues Policies to Guide Medical Product Developers Addressing Virus Variants | site |
Suite of Guidances Addresses Vaccines, Diagnostics and Therapeutics
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: February 22, 2021) Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued guidances for medical product developers, specifically covering vaccines, diagnostics and therapeutics products, to address the emergence and potential future emergence of variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. “The FDA is committed to identifying efficient ways to modify medical products that either are in the pipeline or have been authorized for emergency use to address emerging variants,” said Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock, M.D. “We know the country is eager to return to a new normal and the emergence of the virus variants raises new concerns about the ...02-25-2021, 06:52 AM -
HUD announces Extensions and Expansions of COVID-19 Homeowner Relief and Home Retention Measures | site |
Extensions and expansions support the immediate and ongoing needs of homeowners who are experiencing economic impacts related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development press release dated: February 16, 2021) Washington - - To provide urgent economic relief to homeowners impacted by COVID-19, today the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced extensions of the Federal Housing Administration’s (FHA) foreclosure and eviction moratoriums, as well as an extension of the initial start date of a COVID-19 Forbearance. Forbearance is an option mortgage servicers use to provide homeowners with a pause to their monthly payments for a limited period of time during a COVID-19 induced hardship. The FHA has extended the length of forbearance for some...02-19-2021, 08:51 PM -
U.S. Department of Education COVID-19 Handbook Volume 1: Strategies for Safely Reopening Elementary and Secondary Schools | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Education press release dated: February 12, 2021)
To reopen safely during the COVID-19 pandemic and maximize the amount of in-person instruction, schools need sufficient resources as well as adhered-to, strong state and local public health measures. Extraordinary efforts by states, districts, and schools have been underway to support students throughout the pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Education (ED) are providing recommendations and considerations based on the most recent scientific evidence to support school and district leaders and educators in meeting these ever evolving, significant challenges. Consistent implementation of mitigation strategies during all school-related activities is critical fo...02-19-2021, 03:45 PM -
Audio Recording of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention February 12, 2021 Update on COVID-19 | site |
(Audio recorded information contained in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) press release dated: February 12, 2021)
Note: This version of the audio recording may contain an initial 35 minutes and 16 seconds of music. If music is heard, please move the progress bar to the 35 minutes and 17 seconds point.
Also, there may be an audio gap from the 53 minutes and 47 seconds point to the 54 minutes and 25 seconds point.
Source and credit: Centers...02-13-2021, 02:50 AM -
Coronavirus COVID-19 Update - - - February 12, 2021 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: February 12, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- This week, the FDA posted the webpage, COVID-19 Vaccine Safety Surveillance, which provides an overview of our active and passive systems used to monitor the safety of authorized COVID-19 vaccines. The FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research is conducting these surveillance efforts in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and other academic and large non-government healthcare data systems.
- This week, the FDA issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for a a monoclonal antibody combination for the treatment of mild
02-13-2021, 02:22 AM -
Biden Administration purchases additional Doses of COVID-19 Vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services [HHS] press release dated: February 11, 2021) The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Defense (DOD) have purchased an additional 100 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines from both Pfizer Inc. and Moderna Inc. to help meet demand for COVID-19 vaccines in the United States. The orders placed today bring the vaccine purchased by the U.S. government from these two companies to a total of 600 million doses, enough to vaccinate 300 million people. Each company is delivering 300 million doses in regular increments through the end of July 2021. Each company will leverage U.S.-based manufacturing capacity to fill, finish and ship vials as the bulk material is produced.” “As the President directed, we are expanding our supply of COVID vaccines to protect people...02-12-2021, 01:49 AM -
Veterans Affairs receives additional 200,000 COVID-19 Vaccine Doses to administer to Veterans, Employees | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release dated: February 11, 2021)
Washington - - Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care facilities are receiving a one-time supplemental allocation of 200,000 Moderna COVID-19 vaccine doses this week from the Department of Health and Human Services.
This distribution is in addition to VA’s normally scheduled delivery of approximately 125,000 doses of both Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines each week.
“In accordance to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s phased allocation considerations, VA has worked diligently to offer and administer the COVID-19 vaccine as quickly as possible to Veterans who receive care at VA,” said Acting VA Under Secretary for Health, Richard Stone, M.D. “The additional doses will help us to...02-11-2021, 12:27 PM -
Walgreens and Uber Join Forces to Address Barriers to COVID-19 Vaccine Equity | site |
Announcement says companies will work together on programs that address vaccine hesitancy and access
(Information contained in Walgreens press release dated: February 9, 2021)
Deerfield, Ill. & San Francisco, February 9, 2021 — Walgreens and Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: UBER), a global leader in ridesharing and on-demand delivery technology, today announced that they have entered into an agreement to help drive equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines among underserved communities. Together, Uber and Walgreens will combine their expertise to address common barriers to health equity including education, access and technology. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) points to many interrelated factors that hinder vaccine access for communities of color, including vaccine hesitancy and lack of access to transportation.[1] Walgreens a...02-11-2021, 02:34 AM -
FACT SHEET: Update on USDA Activities to Contain the COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
USDA Deploys 127 Disaster, Public Health Specialists to Assist with Federal Response
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] press release dated: February 10, 2021)
Washington, Feb. 10, 2021 — In January 2021, President Biden released the National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness. The plan is driven by science, data, and public health to improve the effectiveness of our nation’s fight against COVID-19 and to restore trust, accountability and a sense of common purpose in our response to the pandemic.
The National Strategy provides a roadmap to guide America out of the worst public health crisis in a century. It is organized around seven goals:- Restore trust with the American people.
- Mount a safe, effective, and comprehensive vaccination campaign.
- Mitigate spread through
02-10-2021, 04:08 PM -
FEMA Supports Vaccine Distribution: COVID-19 Response Update | site |
(Information contained in Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA] press release dated: February 9, 2021)
Washington - - FEMA has now provided more than $3.15 billion to states, tribes, territories and the District of Columbia for expenses related to COVID-19 vaccination at 100% federal cost share and deployed 752 incident management and 317 incident support staff across the nation to support vaccine centers with federal personnel and technical assistance. Additional FEMA staff across the country are supporting virtually. FEMA is supporting vaccination centers by providing expedited financial assistance, federal equipment and supplies, and deploying federal personnel to states, tribes, territories and other eligible applicants for vaccination efforts. This assistance is processed when a request is submitted. As the number of states with obligations increases, ...02-10-2021, 02:23 PM -
National Institutes of Health calls for greater inclusion of Pregnant and Lactating People in COVID-19 Vaccine Research | site |
(Information contained in National Institutes of Health [NIH] press releases: February 10, 2021)
Longstanding obstacles to include pregnant and lactating people in clinical research have led to this population now deciding whether or not to receive a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine without the benefit of scientific evidence, writes Diana W. Bianchi, M.D., director of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), part of the National Institutes of Health, and colleagues. Their viewpoint article appears online in JAMA. The manufacturers of currently available vaccines excluded pregnant and lactating people from the clinical trials needed to obtain Emergency Use Authorizations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Now that the vaccines have been distributed, the U.S. Center...02-10-2021, 01:08 PM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Authorizes Monoclonal Antibodies for Treatment of COVID-19 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: February 9, 2021)
Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for bamlanivimab and etesevimab administered together for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in adults and pediatric patients (12 years of age or older weighing at least 40 kilograms [about 88 pounds]) who test positive for SARS-CoV-2 and who are at high risk for progressing to severe COVID-19. The authorized use includes treatment for those who are 65 years of age or older or who have certain chronic medical conditions. In a clinical trial of patients with COVID-19 at high risk for disease progression, a single intravenous infusion of bamlanivimab and etesevimab administered together significantly reduced COVID-19-related hospitalization and death d...02-10-2021, 01:46 AM -
New IRS Form available for Self-employed Individuals to claim COVID-19 Sick and Family Leave Tax Credits under FFCRA | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Internal Revenue Service [IRS] press release dated: February 8, 2021)
Washington - - The Internal Revenue Service announced today that a new form is available for eligible self-employed individuals to claim sick and family leave tax credits under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA).
Eligible self-employed individuals will determine their qualified sick and family leave equivalent tax credits with the new IRS Form 7202, Credits for Sick Leave and Family Leave for Certain Self-Employed Individuals. They'll claim the tax credits on their 2020 Form 1040 for leave taken between April 1, 2020, and December 31, 2020, and on their 2021 Form 1040 for leave taken between January 1, 2021, and March 31, 2021. The FFCRA, passed in March 2020, allows eligible self-employ...02-10-2021, 01:17 AM -
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg Highlights Biden Administration’s Support for Transportation Workers and Additional COVID-19 Relief Funding | site |
Meets with leaders from Amtrak, and local transit agencies, as well as front line transit and rail workers at Union Station
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Transportation press release dated: February 5, 2021)
Washington - - Today, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg met with Amtrak and transit officials as well as front line transit and rail workers at Union Station, where he discussed the importance of the recently announced federal mask requirements for public transportation employees and users to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 and highlighted the Biden Administration’s support for additional COVID-19 relief funding for public transportation.
...02-09-2021, 11:52 PM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: February 9, 2021 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: February 9, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- Today, the FDA issued a Letter to Health Care Providers on Using Ventilator Splitters During the COVID-19 Pandemic to provide up-to-date information concerning multiplexing ventilator tubing connectors, also known as ventilator splitters, in situations in which no alternatives for invasive ventilatory support are available. The Letter to Health Care Providers also includes important information about ventilator splitters, including descriptions of features that may reduce certain risks associated with the use of ventilator splitters, considerations for health care providers and facilities when using ventilator splitters, and instructions for
02-09-2021, 06:17 PM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs administers 1 Million COVID-19 doses, publishes Facility Vaccination Numbers | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release dated: February 2, 2021)
Washington - - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reached a milestone in just a month and a half’s time administering 1 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to Veterans and VA health care workers. As of Feb. 2, VA has dispensed at least one dose of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine to more than 582,000 Veterans and has fully vaccinated over 44,000, totaling more than 626,000 doses. This is in addition to administering more than 401,000 doses to VA employees, and more than 1,200 vaccine doses to federal partners. “In addition to administering 1 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, VA has begun publishing the number of Veterans who have received Pfizer BioNTech or Moderna vaccines at ...02-08-2021, 09:59 PM -
Clinical Trial in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients evaluates long-acting Antibody Therapy| site |
NIH trial has begun enrolling participants.
(Information contained in National Institutes of Health [NIH] press release dated: February 8, 2021) An international randomized, controlled Phase 3 clinical trial has begun evaluating the safety and efficacy of an investigational long-acting antibody combination for treating people hospitalized with COVID-19. The trial, part of a master protocol known as ACTIV-3, has an adaptive design allowing investigators to add new sub-studies of additional investigational agents. ACTIV-3 is sponsored by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health. The new sub-study is evaluating AZD7442, an investigational long-acting antibody combination developed by biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca (Cambridge, United Kingdom). Antibodies are infection-fighting ...02-08-2021, 08:10 PM -
U.S. Internal Revenue Service says Educators can now Deduct out-of-pocket Expenses for COVID-19 Protective Items | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Internal Revenue Service [IRS] press release dated: February 4, 2021)
Washington - - Eligible educators can deduct unreimbursed expenses for COVID-19 protective items to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the classroom. COVID-19 protective items include, but are not limited to:- face masks;
- disinfectant for use against COVID-19;
- hand soap;
- hand sanitizer;
- disposable gloves;
- tape, paint or chalk to guide social distancing;
- physical barriers (for example, clear plexiglass);
- air purifiers; and
- other items recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to be used for the prevention of the spread of COVID-19.
02-08-2021, 10:47 AM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: February 5, 2021 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: February 5, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- The FDA has scheduled a meeting of its Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) for Feb. 26, 2021, to discuss the request for emergency use authorization (EUA) for a COVID-19 vaccine from Janssen Biotech Inc. The FDA intends to make background materials available to the public, including the meeting agenda and committee roster, no later than two business days prior to the meeting. In general, advisory committees include a chair, members with scientific and public health expertise, and a consumer and industry representative. Additional members with specific expertise may be added for individual meetings as needed. The
02-08-2021, 07:47 AM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Announces Advisory Committee Meeting to Discuss Janssen Biotech Inc.’s COVID-19 Vaccine Candidate | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: February 4, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has scheduled a meeting of its Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) on Feb. 26, 2021, to discuss the request for emergency use authorization (EUA) for a COVID-19 vaccine from Janssen Biotech Inc. “A public discussion by the advisory committee members about the data submitted in support of safety and effectiveness of Janssen Biotech Inc.’s COVID-19 vaccine will help ensure that the public has a clear understanding of the scientific data and information that FDA will evaluate in order to make a decision about whether to authorize this vaccine,” said Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock, M.D. “The FDA remains committed t...02-08-2021, 07:33 AM -
FEMA Supports Vaccine Distribution: COVID-19 Response Update | site |
(Information contained in Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA] press release dated: February 1, 2021)
Washington - - FEMA has now obligated more than $1.7 billion to states, tribes and territories, and Washington, D.C., for vaccination sites and deployed more than 300 staff to 10 states and one territory to support vaccination centers with personnel and technical assistance. Additional staff across the country are supporting virtually. In the last 48 hours, the following obligations over $1 million were made:- $51.6 million to Alabama.
- $5.9 million to California.
- $245 million to Florida.
- $104.6 million to Georgia.
- $46.9 million to Kentucky.
- $15 million to Minnesota.
- $32 million to Mississippi.
- $103 million to North Carolina.
- $2.5 million to South Carolina.
- $68.5 million to Tennessee.
- $3.2 million to Virginia.
- $47 million to Wisconsin.
02-03-2021, 04:19 AM -
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Statement on Equal Access to COVID-19 Vaccines and Vaccine Distribution Sites | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Homeland Security [DHS] press release dated: February 1, 2021) DHS and its Federal government partners fully support equal access to the COVID-19 vaccines and vaccine distribution sites for undocumented immigrants. It is a moral and public health imperative to ensure that all individuals residing in the United States have access to the vaccine. DHS encourages all individuals, regardless of immigration status, to receive the COVID-19 vaccine once eligible under local distribution guidelines. DHS carries out its mission, including all areas within its COVID-19 response, without discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, nationality, or other protected class, and in compliance with law and policy. Further, DHS supports the equitable and efficient distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine to all populati...02-02-2021, 04:18 AM -
Acting Secretary Pekoske Directs TSA to Mitigate Spread of COVID-19 Through the Transportation System | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Homeland Security [DHS] press release dated: January 31, 2021)
Today the Acting Secretary of Homeland Security announced the issuance of a National Emergency Determination to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. This determination enables TSA to implement President Biden’s Executive Order on Promoting COVID-19 Safety in Domestic and International Travel. TSA will require individuals to wear a mask at TSA screening checkpoints and throughout the commercial and public transportation system. Imposing these proven public health measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 will mitigate the safety and security threat COVID-19 poses to transportation and contribute to the overall national effort to reduce the transmission of the disease....02-01-2021, 12:46 AM -
Janssen Investigational COVID-19 Vaccine: Interim Analysis of Phase 3 Clinical Data Released | site |
(Information contained in National Institutes of Health [NIH] press release dated: January 29, 2021) An investigational COVID-19 vaccine developed by Janssen Pharmaceuticals appears to be safe and effective at preventing moderate and severe COVID-19 in adults, according to an interim analysis of Phase 3 clinical data conducted Jan. 21. The vaccine, called Ad.26.COV2.S or JNJ-78436725, requires only a single injection and can be stored in a refrigerator for months. The interim analysis assessed 468 cases of symptomatic COVID-19 among 44,325 adult volunteers in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, South Africa, and the United States. The investigational vaccine was reportedly 66% effective at preventing the study’s combined endpoints of moderate and severe COVID-19 at 28 days post-vaccination among all volunteers, including those infecte...01-30-2021, 11:45 PM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: January 29, 2021 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: January 29, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- This week, the FDA added a new frequently asked question (FAQ), “Can the FDA help me get a COVID-19 vaccine,” to our COVID-19 FAQs, under the vaccine section. The answer is no. The FDA’s authority includes authorizing or approving COVID-19 vaccines for use in the United States. The FDA is not responsible for vaccine distribution. Go to the CDC website to find your state and local health departments who are responsible for COVID-19 vaccine distribution. If you are contacted directly by someone who says they are from the FDA about a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, it is a scam.
- The FDA has added content to the question-and-answer appendix in its
01-29-2021, 09:32 PM -
Federal Trade Commission marks Identity Theft Awareness Week with Events to Help Consumers Identify Risks of Identity Theft During the COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
(Information contained in Federal Trade Commission [FTC] information release dated: January 28, 2021)
The Federal Trade Commission is launching Identity Theft Awareness Week, February 1-5, 2021, with a series of events to highlight steps consumers can take to help reduce their risk of identity theft and recover if identity theft occurs.
Identity theft happens when someone steals personal information about you such as your Social Security number or credit card information, and uses it to commit fraud. Reports about any type of identity theft topped the list of consumer complaints submitted to the FTC through the third quarter of 2020.As part of Identity Theft Awareness Week,...01-29-2021, 01:07 AM -
2021 Special Enrollment Period in response to the COVID-19 Emergency | site |
(Information contained in Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services [CMS] newsroom Fact Sheet dated: January 28, 2021)
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) national emergency has presented unprecedented challenges for the American public. Millions of Americans are facing uncertainty and millions of Americans are experiencing new health problems during the pandemic. Due to the exceptional circumstances and rapidly changing Public Health Emergency (PHE) impacting millions of people throughout the US every day, many Americans remain uninsured or underinsured and still need affordable health coverage. In accordance with the Executive Order issued today by President Biden, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) determined that the COVID-19 emergency presents exceptional circumstances for consumers in accessing health insurance and will provide a Special...01-29-2021, 12:07 AM -
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Announces Marketplace Special Enrollment Period for COVID-19 Public Health Emergency | site |
2021 SEP provides access to health coverage during the pandemic
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services press release dated: January 28, 2021)
In accordance with the Executive Order issued today by President Biden, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), announced a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for individuals and families for Marketplace coverage in response to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, which has left millions of Americans facing uncertainty and exceptional circumstances while millions of Americans have experienced new health problems during the pandemic. This SEP will allow individuals and families in states with Marketplaces served by the HealthCare.gov platform...01-28-2021, 10:42 PM -
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Amends PREP Act Declaration to Increase Workforce Authorized to Administer COVID-19 Vaccines | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services press release dated: January 28, 2021) The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today issued a fifth amendment to the Declaration under the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act) to add additional categories of qualified persons authorized to prescribe, dispense, and administer COVID-19 vaccines authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “To respond to the nationwide public health emergency caused by COVID-19, the Biden Administration is broadening use of the PREP Act to expand the vaccination workforce quickly with additional qualified healthcare professionals,” said HHS Acting Secretary Norris Cochran. “As vaccine supply is made more widely available over the coming months, havi...01-28-2021, 09:54 PM -
National Institutes of Health launches Database to Track Neurological Symptoms associated with COVID-19 | site |
"The body’s response to COVID-19 infection on the brain, spinal cord, nerves and muscle can be particularly devastating."
(Information contained in National Institutes of Health [NIH] press release dated: January 26, 2021)
A new database will collect information from clinicians about COVID-19-related neurological symptoms, complications, and outcomes as well as COVID-19 effects on pre-existing neurological conditions. The COVID-19 Neuro Databank/Biobank (NeuroCOVID), which was created and will be maintained by NYU Langone Health, New York City, will be a resource of clinical information as well as biospecimens from people of all ages who have experienced neurological problems associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The database is supported by the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of...01-27-2021, 02:20 AM -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: January 26, 2021 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: January 26, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- The agency has updated its FDA COVID-19 Response At-A-Glance Summary, which provides a quick look at facts, figures, and highlights on the FDA's response efforts.
- FDA has posted a CDER Conversation with Katie Gray, Pharm.D., acting director of CDER’s Office of Prescription Drug Promotion (OPDP). This Conversation describes OPDP’s COVID-19 response, which has focused on compliance actions regarding prescription drug promotional materials making false or misleading claims about COVID-19 prevention or treatment. The Conversation also discusses OPDP’s 2020 achievements and 2021 goals, and the way
01-27-2021, 01:20 AM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Takes Action to Place All Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers from Mexico on Import Alert to Help Prevent Entry of Violative and Potentially Dangerous Products into U.S., Protect U.S. Consumers | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] news release dated: January 26, 2021)
As part of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s continuing efforts to protect consumers from potentially dangerous or subpotent hand sanitizers, the agency has placed all alcohol-based hand sanitizers from Mexico on a countrywide import alert to help stop products that appear to be in violation from entering the U.S. until the agency is able to review the products’ safety. Over the course of the ongoing pandemic, the agency has seen a sharp increase in hand sanitizer products from Mexico that were labeled to contain ethanol (also known as ethyl alcohol) but tested positive for methanol contamination....01-27-2021, 12:29 AM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Flies COVID-19 Vaccines to Veterans in Rural Montana | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release dated: January 25, 2021) Washington - - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) flew doses of the Moderna vaccine to the Montana VA Health Care System (MTVAHCS) last week, as part of a new pilot program providing vaccines to Veterans living in rural parts of the country. Chosen as the initial site for the pilot, MTVAHCS provided 240 Veterans in Havre, Montana with the vaccine. Montana was selected due to size and rurality. It is the country’s fourth largest state and its mountainous terrain makes for difficult driving conditions during the winter. The facility arranged transportation via air charter to deliver the vaccines. “The delivery of the Moderna vaccine to Havre, Montana gives solace knowing we are helping protect rural Montana Veterans from COV...01-26-2021, 09:00 PM -
U.S. State Department Fact Sheet says Negative COVID-19 Test Required for Travel to the United States Beginning January 26 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson press release fact sheet dated: January 25, 2021)
The U.S. Department of State and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) remind all travelers that beginning tomorrow, January 26, all air passengers two years of age or older arriving to the United States must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test or proof of recovery from COVID-19 before boarding. This order applies to both foreign nationals and U.S. citizens. For more information about the testing requirement, visit: Requirement for Proof of Negative COVID-19 Test or Recovery from COVID-19 for All Air Passengers Arriving in the United States | CDC . U.S. citizens should reconsider non-essential travel abroad. Those that must travel abroad following the implementation of this ord...01-25-2021, 11:11 PM -
Walgreens Completes More Than 1 Million COVID-19 Vaccinations | site |
Company remains on track to complete first vaccine doses in skilled nursing facilities by Jan. 25
(Information contained in Walgreens press release dated: January 22, 2021)
Deerfield, Ill., January 22, 2021 - Walgreens has administered more than 1 million COVID-19 vaccinations across long-term care facilities and other vulnerable populations identified as part of state and jurisdiction distribution plans. The company also remains on track to complete the administration of COVID-19 vaccine first doses in skilled nursing facilities by Monday, Jan. 25. Walgreens began administering COVID-19 vaccinations as part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program on Dec. 21 and has continued to expand vaccine efforts according to state and jurisdiction distribution plans. “Thanks to the dedication of te...01-25-2021, 03:07 AM -
Excerpt of U.S. Food and Drug Administration Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: January 22, 2021 | site |
(Excerpt of information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: January 22, 2021)- The FDA is reissuing the Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for decontamination systems that are authorized to decontaminate compatible N95 respirators for use by healthcare personnel (HCP) to prevent exposure to pathogenic biological airborne particulates when there is an insufficient supply of new respirators resulting from the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Among other things, the reissued EUAs for certain decontamination systems are now only authorized to decontaminate each compatible N95 respirator a maximum of four or fewer times. Based on the FDA’s review of real-world use of these systems and evidence from adverse events and scientific literature, including studies regarding N95 respirator failures from simula
01-22-2021, 07:41 PM -
National Institutes of Health article says Full-dose Blood Thinners decreased need for Life Support and improved Outcome in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients | site |
Information contained in National Institutes of Health [NIH] press release dated: January 22 2021) In large clinical trial conducted worldwide, full dose anti-coagulation (blood thinner) treatments given to moderately ill patients hospitalized for COVID-19 reduced the requirement of vital organ support—such as the need for ventilation. A trend in possible reduction of mortality was also observed and is being further studied. With large numbers of COVID-19 patients requiring hospitalization, these outcomes could also help reduce the overload on intensive care units around the world. Early in the pandemic, physicians around the world observed increased rates of blood clots and inflammation among COVID-19 patients which affected multiple organs and led to complications such as lung failure, h...01-22-2021, 07:09 PM -
National Institutes of Health Officials Highlight COVID-19 Vaccine Facts, Unknowns for Healthcare Providers | site |
(Information included in a National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) news release dated: January 18, 2021)
Healthcare providers must be able to explain the latest data supporting the safety and efficacy of vaccines for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) so they can strongly encourage vaccination when appropriate while acknowledging that uncertainty and unknowns remain. This message comes from a new commentary co-authored by Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health, and other leading NIAID scientists in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine. The commentary provides an overview of the seven COVID-19 vaccines furthest along in development in the United States. For each vaccine candidate, the authors des...01-21-2021, 10:03 AM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs says VA plays Crucial Role in COVID-19 Treatment Study | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release dated: January 19, 2021)
Washington - - U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) researchers and Veteran volunteers from the Atlanta and San Antonio VA medical centers were part of a recently published study that yielded crucial insights into COVID-19 treatment.
The study published Dec. 11, 2020, by the New England Journal of Medicine, showed the drugs baricitinib and remdesivir combined were far better at improving and reducing recovery time of COVID-19 patients than treatment with remdesivir alone. “Safe and effective vaccines for COVID-19 are being rolled out in VA and other health care settings, but finding treatments remains crucial,” said VA Secretary Robert Wilkie. “VA researchers and all the Veterans who volunteer for studies are contributing to steady p...01-20-2021, 04:37 AM -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: January 19, 2021 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release: January 19, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- Today, to help protect consumers from methanol poisoning, the FDA issued a new guidance, “Policy for Testing of Alcohol (Ethanol) and Isopropyl Alcohol for Methanol, Including During the Public Health Emergency (COVID-19),” to notify drug manufacturers and compounders of FDA’s policy on certain testing procedures on all lots of alcohol and isopropyl alcohol prior to manufacturing to prevent methanol contamination or substitution in drugs. Methanol is not an acceptable ingredient for any drug product and should not be used due to its toxic effects.
- To accelerate the adoption of advanced and smart manufacturing
01-19-2021, 06:14 PM -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: January 15, 2021 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: January 15, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- Today, the FDA issued and immediately implemented a new guidance entitled, “Protecting Participants in Bioequivalence Studies for Abbreviated New Drug Applications During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.” This guidance assists prospective applicants of abbreviated new drug applications (ANDAs) on ensuring participants are protected when resuming or initiating bioequivalence studies conducted to support the approval of an ANDA that has been disrupted during the COVID-19 public health emergency.
- On January 14, the FDA issued and immediately implemented a new guidance entitled, “Coagulation Systems for Measurement
01-16-2021, 11:15 PM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs begins administering COVID-19 Vaccines to Department of Homeland Security Mission-essential Personnel | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release: January 12, 2021)
Washington - - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) began administering COVID-19 vaccinations to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) employees Jan. 6, through an interagency agreement to support DHS’s COVID-19 vaccination program.
The agreement was initiated in response to President Donald Trump’s declaration of COVID-19 as a national emergency and falls under the Economy Act, which authorizes federal agencies to provide services or supplies to other federal agencies on a reimbursable basis. As part of the agreement, trained VA medical professionals at certain VA medical centers are vaccinating DHS employees using DHS’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention vaccine allocations. “This is a ...01-13-2021, 04:29 AM -
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Expands Negative COVID-19 Test Requirement to All Air Passengers Entering the United States | site |
(Information contained in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] press release: January 12, 2021) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is expanding the requirement for a negative COVID-19 test to all air passengers entering the United States. Testing before and after travel is a critical layer to slow the introduction and spread of COVID-19. This strategy is consistent with the current phase of the pandemic and more efficiently protects the health of Americans. Variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus continue to emerge in countries around the world, and there is evidence of increased transmissibility of some of these variants. With the US already in surge status, the testing requirement for air passengers will help slow the spread of the virus as we work to vaccinate the American public. Before departu...01-13-2021, 01:20 AM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Fitbit help support Veteran Health and Wellness during COVID-19 Pandemic | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release: January 11, 2021)
Washington - - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced today a new initiative with Fitbit that will provide eligible Veterans, caregivers and VA staff with access to Fitbit programs and services to help manage stress, improve sleep and increase physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative will be focused on participants who currently use Fitbit devices. VA has contracted with Fitbit to initially provide 10,000 eligible Veterans, caregivers and VA staff a one-year free membership to Fitbit Premium. This includes access to guided programs, hundreds of workouts, mindfulness content, a wellness report and a health metrics dashboard. Participants will also have access to Fitbit Health Coachi...01-11-2021, 06:20 PM -
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Launches Web-Based Locator for COVID-19 Outpatient Treatment Sites for Monoclonal Antibodies | site |
- System helps doctors and patients find locations for COVID-19 outpatient treatment
- Use of monoclonal antibody treatments could help reduce need for hospitalization in high-risk patients
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services press release: January 11, 2021)
A web-based COVID-19 outpatient treatment locator maintained by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is now available to assist healthcare providers and patients in finding potential locations for treatment with monoclonal antibody therapeutics. These medicines are authorized for emergency use in treating patients with mild or moderate COVID-19 who are at high risk of developing severe symptoms and requiring hospitalization. "We are focused intently on supporting healthcare providers in their efforts to save liv...01-11-2021, 05:44 PM -
Walgreens Expects to Complete Administration of COVID-19 Vaccine First Doses in Skilled Nursing Facilities by January 25 | site |
Walgreens continues to accelerate access to COVID-19 vaccinations among additional vulnerable populations as part of state and local jurisdictions distribution plans
(Information contained in Walgreens press release dated: January 6, 2021)
Deerfield, Ill., January 06, 2021 - Walgreens expects to complete the administration of COVID-19 vaccine first doses in skilled nursing facilities by Monday, Jan. 25. The company is also rapidly expanding access to vaccinations among assisted living facilities and additional vulnerable populations outlined by states and local jurisdictions as part of expanded distribution plans. “Since receiving our first allotments of vaccines in late December, Walgreens has remained on track in vaccinating our most vulnerable populations, and we are steadfast in our comm...01-11-2021, 04:02 PM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs expands Access to Telehealth Services during COVID-19 Pandemic for Older, Rural and Homeless Veterans | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release dated: January 6, 2021)
Washington - - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced today its Digital Divide Consult has helped more than 12,000 Veterans obtain internet access or a video-capable device for their health care needs.
As part of the program, VA providers refer Veterans to a VA social worker, who determines eligibility for various programs to assist with getting the internet service or technology needed for VA telehealth — ensuring older Veterans, those living in rural areas and Veterans who are homeless or in temporary housing have the opportunity to participate.
According to the Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, Veterans with lower incomes, more severe...01-09-2021, 11:30 PM -
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: January 8, 2021 | site |
(The following is part of the information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release: January 8, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continued to take action in the ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic:- The FDA alerted clinical laboratory staff and health care providers that genetic variants of SARS-CoV-2 may lead to false negative results with molecular tests for SARS-CoV-2. The Letter to Clinical Laboratory Staff and Health Care Providers includes important information about potential false negative results with molecular tests, including:
- Details on the effect of genetic variants on test performance.
- Recommendations for clinical laboratory staff and health care providers.
- Actions the FDA has taken.
- Instructions for reporting problems with a test.
- This week, the FDA posted a new webpage, Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently
01-08-2021, 11:39 PM - The FDA alerted clinical laboratory staff and health care providers that genetic variants of SARS-CoV-2 may lead to false negative results with molecular tests for SARS-CoV-2. The Letter to Clinical Laboratory Staff and Health Care Providers includes important information about potential false negative results with molecular tests, including:
-
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Continues Community Based Testing Sites for COVID-19 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services press release dated: January 7, 2021) Today, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the extension of the Community Based Testing Site program for COVID-19 testing, through partnership with national pharmacy and retail chains CVS, Rite-Aid, Walgreens, Quest (through services at Walmart) and service provider eTrueNorth (through services at Health Mart and Topco locations). The partnership has resulted in establishing more than 3,300 COVID-19 testing locations in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. To date, more than 5.6 million tests have been conducted as a result of this partnership. The Community Based Testing Site program began in the spring of 2020 and includes a large percentage - over 70% - of testing sites located in communities ...01-07-2021, 04:34 PM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs administers over 146,000 COVID-19 Vaccine Doses to date | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release dated: January 5, 2021)
Washington - - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced today it has administered initial COVID-19 vaccine doses to more than 14,000 Veterans at high risk of getting COVID-19 infection, and more than 132,000 health care employees as of Jan. 4.
In accordance with VA’s COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan, the department started vaccination efforts at 37 initial VA medical centers, following the Food and Drug Administration’s Dec. 11 decision to issue an Emergency Use Authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine. The 37 initial sites to first receive the vaccine were selected based on several factors, including having the capacity to store the vaccine at extremely cold temperatures and the ability to offer hi...01-07-2021, 02:07 AM -
Transcript of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Update on COVID-19 - - January 6, 2021 | site |
(Information contained in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] press release dated: January 6, 2021)
Please Note: This transcript is not edited and may contain errors.
OPERATOR: AT THIS TIME, ALL PARTICIPANTS ARE ON LISTEN-ONLY MODE. SO, IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ASK A QUESTION, PLEASE PRESS STAR AND THEN ONE.
TODAY’S CONFERENCE IS BEING RECORDED. IF YOU HAVE ANY OBJECTIONS, YOU MAY DISCONNECT AT THIS TIME. AND NOW I WOULD LIKE TO TURN THE MEETING OVER TO MR. BENJAMIN HAYNES. SIR YOU MAY BEGIN.
HAYNES: THANK YOU, BRITTANY. AND THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO HAS JOINED US FOR TODAY’S BRIEFING TO DISCUSS VACCINE SAFETY. WE ARE JOINED BY THE DIRECTOR OF CDC’S NATIONAL CENTER AND IS SENIOR FEDERAL OFFICIAL LEADING TODAY’S VACCINE EFFORTS. WE WILL BE JOINED BY DR. TOM CLARK,...01-07-2021, 12:39 AM -
National Institutes of Health says Large Clinical Trial will Test Combination Monoclonal Antibody Therapy for mild/moderate COVID-19 | site |
(Information contained in National Institutes of Health [NIH] press release: January 5, 2021)
A Phase 2/3 clinical trial has begun to evaluate a combination investigational monoclonal antibody therapy for its safety and efficacy in people who have mild or moderate COVID-19. The two experimental antibodies, BRII-196 and BRII-198, target SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The trial, known as ACTIV-2, is sponsored by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health.
NIH’s Accelerating COVID-19 Therapeutic Interventions and Vaccines (ACTIV) program is a public-private partnership to develop a coordinated research strategy for speeding development of the most promising treatments and vaccine candidates. ACTIV-2 is a master protocol...01-05-2021, 08:56 PM -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: January 5, 2021 | site |
(Information included in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release dated: January 5, 2021)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- Today, the FDA posted a new webpage on the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) highlighting authorities that are intended to enhance the FDA’s ability to identify, prevent, and mitigate possible drug shortages by, among other things, enhancing the FDA’s visibility into drug supply chains.
The CARES Act amended the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic (FD&C) Act to:Expand the requirement for manufacturers of certain drugs to provide information on permanent discontinuances and interruptions in manufacturing that may lead to a meaningful disruption in supply to the FDA. Include...01-05-2021, 08:05 PM -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Statement on Following the Authorized Dosing Schedules for COVID-19 Vaccines | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release: January 4, 2021)
January 04, 2021
Statement From:
Commissioner of Food and Drugs - Food and Drug Administration
Stephen M. Hahn M.D.
Director - Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER)
Peter Marks M.D., PhD. Two different mRNA vaccines have now shown remarkable effectiveness of about 95% in preventing COVID-19 infection in adults. As the first round of vaccine recipients become eligible to receive their second dose, we want to remind the public about the importance of receiving COVID-19 vaccines according to how they’ve been authorized by the FDA in order to safely receive the level of protection observed in the large randomized trials supporting their effectiveness. We have been ...01-05-2021, 09:26 AM -
Federal Emergency Management Agency Reimburses nearly $7 Million to Massachusetts for COVID-19 Food Security Response | site |
(Information contained in Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA] press release dated: December 31, 2020)
Region 1 – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $6,993,801 to Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) to reimburse eligible expenses for the delivery of food boxes to hundreds of thousands of residents in response to food insecurity caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. MEMA, along with the assistance of the Salvation Army, and a network of food banks and food pantries throughout Massachusetts coordinated and distributed 275,808 food boxes to eligible participants. “We are pleased to provide this significant grant to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to help manage the financial demands associated with providing food for its citizens needing assistance during COVID-19,” said Region...01-02-2021, 08:59 PM -
National Institutes of Health says Peer-reviewed Report on Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Publishes | site |
NIH says "Data from Phase 3 clinical trial confirm vaccine is effective".
(Information contained in National Institutes of Health [NIH] press release dated: December 30, 2020)
The investigational vaccine known as mRNA-1273 was 94.1% efficacious in preventing symptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), according to preliminary results from a Phase 3 clinical trial reported in the New England Journal of Medicine. The vaccine also demonstrated efficacy in preventing severe COVID-19. Investigators identified no safety concerns and no evidence of vaccine-associated enhanced respiratory disease (VAERD). The vaccine was co-developed by Moderna, Inc., a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health. ...01-02-2021, 01:44 PM -
National Institutes of Health Study uncovers Blood Vessel Damage and Inflammation in COVID-19 Patients’ Brains but no Infection
| site |
Results from a study of 19 deceased patients suggests brain damage is a byproduct of a patient’s illness.
(Information contained in National Institutes of Health [NIH] press release dated: December 30, 2020) In an in-depth study of how COVID-19 affects a patient’s brain, National Institutes of Health researchers consistently spotted hallmarks of damage caused by thinning and leaky brain blood vessels in tissue samples from patients who died shortly after contracting the disease. In addition, they saw no signs of SARS-CoV-2 in the tissue samples, suggesting the damage was not caused by a direct viral attack on the brain. The results were published as a correspondence in the New England Journal of Medicine. “We found that the brains of patients who contract infection from SARS-CoV-2 may be ...01-02-2021, 12:43 AM -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: December 30, 2020 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release: December 30, 2020)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- Today, the FDA published a new toolkit to help stakeholders communicate in English and Spanish about hand sanitizer safety and use during the COVID-19 pandemic. New materials include social media messages and graphics, consumer information, and health professional messaging. Furthermore, a new COVID-19 Communication Toolkits webpage provides links to all FDA toolkits on COVID-19 topics to help everyone communicate accurate and timely information to patients, the public, and health care professionals.
- In a new FDA Voices entitled, 2020 at FDA: A Year of Unparalleled Contributions to Public Health, FDA Commissioner
12-31-2020, 12:26 AM -
Walgreens and Labcorp make Pixel by Labcorp™ At-Home COVID-19 Collection Kit available through Walgreens Find Care® | site |
The companies say the "Kit Can Allow More People to Get Tested, Helping Reduce the Spread of the Virus and Improving the Health of Communities"
(Information contained in Walgreens press release dated: December 21, 2020)
Deerfield, Ill. & Burlington, N.C., Dec. 21, 2020 — Labcorp (NYSE: LH), a leading global life sciences company that is focused on advancing health and guiding patient care decisions, and Walgreens today announced that the Pixel by Labcorp™ At-Home COVID-19 Collection Kit is now available from Labcorp through Walgreens Find Care®, a digital health platform available on the Walgreens app and Walgreens.com. Walgreens currently offers COVID-19 testing in more than 1,100 drive-thru locations across the country.
Using Walgreens Find Care®, customers can connect to the Pixel...12-30-2020, 11:16 PM -
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Administers over 55,000 COVID-19 Vaccine Doses in two Weeks | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs press release: December 30, 2020)
Washington - - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced today that it has administered initial COVID-19 vaccine doses to more than 5,000 Veterans residing in its Community Living Centers and Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Centers and more than 50,000 health care employees in its first two weeks (Dec. 14-Dec. 27) of providing COVID-19 vaccines.
VA began vaccinating Veterans and frontline employees at 37 initial VA medical centers according to its COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan, following the Food and Drug Administration’s Dec. 11 decision to issue an Emergency Use Authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine. The 37 initial sites to first receive the vaccine were selected based on several factors, in...12-30-2020, 10:38 PM -
Transcript: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Update on COVID-19 - - December 30, 2020 | site |
(Information contained in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] press release: December 30, 2020)
Please Note: This transcript is not edited and may contain errors.
OPERATOR: WELCOME AND THANK YOU FOR STANDING BY. ALL LINES HAVE BEEN PLACED IN A LISTEN ONLY MODE FOR TODAY’S PREPARATION. THE CALL IS BEING RECORDED. IF YOU HAVE ANY OBJECTIONS, YOU MAY DISCONNECT AT THIS TIME. I WILL NOW INTRODUCE YOUR CONFERENCE HOST, MR. BENJAMIN HAYNES. YOU MAY BEGIN.
HAYNES: THANK YOU EVERYONE WHO HAS JOINS US TO DISCUSS TWO, NEW VARIANTS OF THE VIRUS THAT CAUSES COVID-19 AS WELL AS COVID-19 VACCINES. WE ARE JOINED BY DR. HENRY WALKE, THE INCIDENT MANAGER FOR CDC’S COVID-19 RESPONSE AND DR. NANCY MESSONNIER, DIRECTOR CDC’S NATIONAL CENTER FOR IMMUNIZATION AND RESPIRATORY DISEASES, AND THE SENIOR FEDERAL...12-30-2020, 09:56 PM -
U.S. Small Business Administration Extends COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan Application Deadline through December 2021 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Small Business Administration press release: December 30, 2020)
Washington - - Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced that the deadline to apply for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program for the COVID-19 Pandemic disaster declaration is extended to December 31, 2021. The deadline extension comes as a result of the recent bipartisan COVID-19 relief bill passed by Congress and enacted by the President on December 27, 2020. To date, SBA has approved $197 billion in low-interest loans which provide U.S. small businesses, non-profits and agricultural businesses working capital funds to help America’s small businesses make it through this challenging time. “Following the President’s declaration of the COVID-19 Pandemic, SBA has approved over 3.6 million loans ...12-30-2020, 04:29 PM -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: December 28, 2020 | site |
(Information contained in U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] press release: December 28, 2020)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced the following actions taken in its ongoing response effort to the COVID-19 pandemic:- On Dec. 23, the FDA updated the Device Shortage List on our web page that lists Medical Device Shortages During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. Specifically, the FDA added the following device types in the testing supplies and equipment category: pipette tips (product codes LXG and PPM) and micro pipettes (product code JRC). The FDA also added clarifying notes and links to more resources in the “Additional Information” column, as well as adding clarity to the categories, such as grouping gloves under “Personal Protective Equipment – Gloves.” The device shortage list reflects the categories of
12-29-2020, 05:17 AM -
National Institutes of Health says Phase 3 Trial of Novavax Investigational COVID-19 Vaccine opens| site |
NIH- and BARDA-funded trial will enroll up to 30,000 volunteers.
People 18 years of age and older who are interested in participating in this trial can visit coronaviruspreventionnetwork.org , ClinicalTrials.gov and search identifier NCT04611802, or Novavax.com/PREVENT-19 for details. Please do not contact the NIAID media phone number or email to enroll in this trial.
(Information contained in National Institutes of Health [NIH] press release: December 28, 2020)
The Phase 3 trial of another investigational coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine has begun enrolling adult volunteers. The randomized, placebo-controlled trial will enroll approximately 30,000 people at approximately 115 sites in the United States and Mexico. It will evaluate the safety and efficacy of NVX-CoV2373, a vaccine candidate...12-28-2020, 05:31 PM -
Walgreens Begins Administration of Pfizer’s COVID-19 Vaccine in Long-Term Care Facilities | site |
Walgreens Plans to Administer the Vaccine to Approximately 3 Million Residents and Staff in 35,000 Long-Term Care Facilities as Part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Program
(Information contained in Walgreens press release dated: December 18, 2020)
Deerfield, Ill., December 18, 2020 - Today Walgreens began administering Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine to residents and staff at long-term care facilities in a monumental first in the company’s 119-year history. Pharmacists are providing the vaccinations at nursing homes and assisted living facilities in Ohio and Connecticut as part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Pharmacy Partnership for Long-term Care Program. Walgreens pharmacy team members will provide COVID-19 vaccinations in approximately 800 long-term care facilities across 12 s...12-26-2020, 11:07 PM -
UPS Continues Support Of COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution | site |
UPS Partners with McKesson to Transport and Deliver the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine
(Information contained in UPS press release dated: December 18, 2020) Atlanta, GA - - UPS (NYSE:UPS) continues its involvement with COVID-19 vaccine delivery efforts through a partnership with global pharmaceutical and medical supply distributor McKesson. Through contracts with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response to support Operation Warp Speed, McKesson is the centralized distributor for non-ultra-frozen COVID-19 vaccines and ancillary supply kits. Under its agreement with McKesson, UPS will begin delivering Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine, which today received a U.S. Food and Drug Administration Emergency Use Authorization. “This is a critically important initiative for UPS, and we are committed to delivering what matters for as lon...12-26-2020, 10:41 PM -
FedEx to Ship First Wave of Moderna COVID-19 Vaccines Across the United States | site |
Company to begin transporting first Moderna COVID-19 vaccine shipments for McKesson Corp.
(Information contained in FedEx press release dated: December 19, 2020)
Memphis, Tenn. December 19, 2020 – FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world’s largest express transportation company, announced today that operations are in motion to transport Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccines for McKesson Corp. throughout the United States. Following the Food and Drug Administration’s approval of Emergency Use Authorization for the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, FedEx Express will begin transport of the vaccine and kits of supplies for administration of the vaccine, using its FedEx Priority Overnight® service supported by FedEx Priority Alert® advanced monitoring. After months of preparation and close planning with McKesson, Operation W...12-26-2020, 10:20 PM