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MDH is endorsing AAP and AAFP immunization schedules and specifically is not following the new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations for shared clinical decision-making (SCDM) for selected vaccines.
Childhood vaccines have been routinely recommended because their benefits clearly outweigh risks for nearly all patients. SCDM recommendations were originally used when benefit varied and required a conversation with a patient about their specific risks, even though the vaccine is safe and effective. In practice, SCDM looks much like routine vaccine counseling: explain risks and benefits, provide the Vaccine Information Statement (VIS), answer questions, and recommend vaccination when appropriate.
For more information on SCDM, how to start a conversation with a patient, and the 4-A method for vaccine conversations, review:
An update to the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS) system occurred between Feb. 13 and 15. As part of this update, the email address and fax number of VAERS have changed. The info@vaers.org email address will no longer be monitored, and messages sent will not receive a response. Direct all communication to:
- Email: vaersinfo@cdc.gov
- Fax: 1-678-530-1083
- Phone (remains the same): 1-800-822-7967 (VAERS Help Desk)
The VAERS form has not changed as part of this update. If your clinic primarily submits VAERS reports by fax, note the change in the fax number.
MDH will be sending a reminder postcard statewide to adults ages 50 to 51 years recommended for a zoster vaccine. This postcard will go out at the end of March. If you have any questions about the postcard, contact health.miichelp@state.mn.us.
MDH has started exploring a new version of the Minnesota Immunization Information Connection (MIIC). MIIC is a confidential system that stores electronic immunization records.
The current MIIC system has been operating for nearly 25 years. Maintaining advanced and strategic public health work requires up-to-date technology that meets the needs of our partners and Minnesotans.
Replacing a system like MIIC is a long process. We’re in the early stages of the project and will share more details as the project continues. You can sign up for email updates on the MIIC modernization effort at Minnesota Department of Health: MIIC Modernization.
Immunizing infants to protect them against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) for the 2025-26 season will be ending soon. The recommended timeframe for administering infant RSV monoclonal antibody (RSV-mAb) immunization products, Beyfortus (nirsevimab) or Enflonsia (clesrovimab), is Oct. 1 to March 31. Continue using the available inventory of nirsevimab and clesrovimab, until the recommendations for immunization end on March 31. Most current doses will not expire at the end of this season and can still be used next fall. Check expiration dates and store any unused doses in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C) to be used next season.
The recommended timeframe for vaccinating during pregnancy is based on RSV seasonality when infants are at highest risk. Vaccinating pregnant people in weeks 32 through 36 of their pregnancy during September through January allows time for the transfer of maternal antibodies and protects infants who are born when RSV activity is high.
- RSV m-Ab products wane within 6 months, and if given outside of the recommended timeframe, would not provide protection when RSV rates are highest and infants are most vulnerable.
- Infants born October through March to an unvaccinated pregnant person should receive one dose of RSV m-Ab. Babies born on or after April 1 can receive the RSV m-Ab immunization starting on Oct. 1.
- RSV products administered outside of their recommended timeframe may not be covered by insurance.
- In Minnesota, RSV rates are typically low during April through September.
MDH is closely monitoring RSV disease rates in Minnesota. If RSV seasonality differs from what is expected, we will inform providers of the need to extend the use of RSV immunization products. Take steps now to immunize eligible infants through March 31! For additional information visit:
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