Homecare Update

(From the September 2024 Issue of MedStat)

Homecare RSV

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met in June. It did not change recommendations for infant prophylaxis with monoclonal antibodies, such as nirsevimab. Use of a single dose of nirsevimab (Beyfortus™) for RSV prevention is recommended. According to the ACIP, “all infants are recommended to be protected by either maternal RSV vaccination or nirsevimab for the 2024-2025 RSV Season.” Any additional updates from both the American Academy of Pediatrics and ACIP will be posted on the Nationwide Children’s Homecare webpage.

Pablo J. Sanchez, MD, is providing an RSV prevention webinar to community providers in September. A link to view the recorded presentation will be available on the Homecare webpage under the “Professionals tab.”

Asthma Treatment Update

The change of seasons and activities can often increase breathing issues for children diagnosed with asthma. The Homecare Asthma Express program assists families with managing asthma symptoms, ensuring children remain active both at home and in school. This year, Asthma Express invites families to participate in the Breathe Smart pilot study, which helps identify allergens in homes using smartphones. Families who choose to participate will be compensated as Asthma Express patients. The study aims to develop a new system to detect allergens in homes of children with asthma. See the Breathe Smart insert for more information and to share with patient families. For questions about Asthma Express or other Nationwide Children’s Homecare services, email Carolyn Figi.