All articles tagged with #vaccine shortage
The global stockpile of cholera vaccine has been depleted as deadly outbreaks of the disease continue to spread, with three new vaccine makers working to replenish the stockpile. The only current vaccine producer is also expanding its production efforts, but the total global supply available this year is expected to be only a quarter of what is needed, as countries have already reported 79,300 cases and 1,100 deaths from cholera in 2024.
The global stockpile of cholera vaccines is empty, with demand far outstripping supply as outbreaks of the disease surge worldwide. Efforts to stretch the current vaccine supply and ramp up production have been hindered by a vicious cycle where active outbreaks consume all available vaccines, leaving insufficient doses for prevention campaigns or to replenish reserves. Factors driving up demand include lack of access to clean water and sanitation, conflict, migration, and climate change. The shortage is exacerbated by limited manufacturers and low profit margins for the vaccine, prompting calls for the resumption of preventive cholera vaccinations to attract manufacturers and improve public health.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced the expedited distribution of over 77,000 additional doses of nirsevimab, an RSV immunization for infants, to address the ongoing shortage. The monoclonal antibody, marketed as Beyfortus, helps protect infants from severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections, which are a leading cause of hospitalization in infants. The CDC and FDA will work closely with manufacturers to ensure the availability of more doses through the end of the year and early next year. The shortage has raised concerns among public health officials as RSV cases rise during the winter season. Challenges include limited access to the vaccine in birthing hospitals and the high cost of the immunization. Efforts are underway to address these issues and improve access in future seasons.
The shortage of the RSV vaccine, Beyfortus, reveals deeper problems with the US administration of childhood vaccinations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended prioritizing the drug for the youngest and highest-risk babies due to the shortage. However, pediatric infectious disease specialist Sean O'Leary argues that the shortage should never have occurred. The fragmented US healthcare system and the financial risks associated with stocking expensive vaccines like Beyfortus create barriers for pediatricians. Unlike other industrialized countries, the US lacks a universal vaccination program that provides vaccines free of charge across the lifespan.
The manufacturer of the new RSV vaccine, Beyfortus, has stopped taking orders for some doses due to unprecedented demand, leading to a shortage. The US CDC has recommended reserving scarce doses for infants at highest risk, while healthy infants over six months of age may miss out on the new protection. RSV is a respiratory virus that can cause severe illness in infants, and the new vaccine was eagerly anticipated by pediatricians. The limited supply has caused frustration among healthcare professionals, and concerns have been raised about the cost and insurance coverage of the vaccine. The manufacturer expects more doses to be available in the coming weeks.
Medical experts warn that yellow fever, a mosquito-borne disease once confined to the tropics, is poised for a resurgence in the US due to climate change. With no cure and a high fatality rate, the US is unprepared as the population remains largely unvaccinated and there are no vaccine doses in the US Strategic National Stockpile. The South, including cities like Houston, New Orleans, and Miami, is particularly vulnerable to an epidemic. Poverty and economic factors also contribute to the spread of yellow fever. Experts urge prioritizing yellow fever in national pandemic-preparedness efforts and recommend protective measures such as insect repellent and clothing, as well as vaccination for those traveling to affected areas.
The Edmond Animal Shelter in Oklahoma has closed due to a potential flu outbreak among dogs, with no animals allowed in or out. The shelter is now in quarantine, joining other metro facilities that have been affected by respiratory illness this year. The outbreak is believed to be canine influenza, and the shelter is facing a shortage of medication due to a nationwide shortage. Canine flu vaccines are expected to be available next week, but until then, dog owners are encouraged to avoid public places like dog parks.
Sunset Veterinary Clinic in Edmond, Oklahoma, reported its first case of canine flu just one week after Oklahoma City shelters shut down due to hundreds of cases and some deaths. The vaccine for the flu is in short supply until May. Dog owners are urged to take precautions and limit their pets' exposure to other dogs until they can get vaccinated. Symptoms of the flu include coughing, sneezing, labored breathing, lethargy, and loss of appetite.