Immunization MMWRs

June 2022

• Lee D, Counard C, Tang A, Brister S, Ezike N. Notes from the Field: COVID-19–Associated Mortality Risk Among Long-Term Care Facility Residents and Community-Dwelling Adults Aged ≥65 Years — Illinois, December 2020 and January 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(24);803–5.
  This report estimates the risk for death among LTCF residents by comparing COVID-19–associated mortality rates among LTCF residents aged ≥65 years and persons aged ≥65 years who are not LTCF residents (community-dwelling adults) in Illinois…
• Yuan Y, Thierry JM, Bull-Otterson L, Yeargin-Allsopp M, Clark KEN, Rice C, et al. COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations Among Medicare Beneficiaries With and Without Disabilities — United States, January 1, 2020–November 20, 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(24);791–6.
  Efforts to increase access to and implementation of COVID-19 prevention and treatment strategies, including vaccination, are critical to reducing severe COVID-19–associated outcomes among persons with disabilities…
• Martin J, Burns CC, Jorba J, Shulman LM, Macadam A, Klapsa D, et al. Genetic Characterization of Novel Oral Polio Vaccine Type 2 Viruses During Initial Use Phase Under Emergency Use Listing — Worldwide, March–October 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(24);786–90.
  Global nOPV2 genomic surveillance during March–October 2021 confirmed genetic stability of the primary attenuating site…
• Malawi Ministry of Health, Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Davlantes E. Notes from the Field: Initial Outbreak Response Activity Following Wild Poliovirus Type 1 Detection — Malawi, February 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(23);776–7.
  The first nationwide bOPV outbreak response SIA began on March 21, 2022, and additional nationwide SIAs are planned over the coming months…
• Minhaj FS, Ogale YP, Whitehill F, Schultz J, Foote M, Davidson W, et al. Monkeypox Outbreak — Nine States, May 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(23);764–9.
  CDC is tracking multiple reported U.S. monkeypox cases, and monitoring cases in persons in countries without endemic monkeypox and with no known travel links to an endemic area; current epidemiology suggests person-to-person community spread…
• Kriss JL, Hung M, Srivastav A, Black CL, Lindley MC, Lee JT, et al. COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage, by Race and Ethnicity — National Immunization Survey Adult COVID Module, United States, December 2020–November 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(23);757–63.
  Equitable access to and receipt of COVID-19 vaccination, including booster doses, is critical to reducing racial and ethnic disparities in vaccination…
• Tesema L, Sullivan D, Pulido M, Traub E, Escobar J, Moore L, et al. Notes from the Field: Influenza A(H3N2) Outbreak Following a School Event — Los Angeles, California, March 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(22);745–6.
  These findings highlight the potential for influenza viruses to cause outbreaks of acute respiratory illness with high attack rates…
• Rao AK, Petersen BW, Whitehill F, Razeq JH, Isaacs SN, Merchlinsky MJ, et al. Use of JYNNEOS (Smallpox and Monkeypox Vaccine, Live, Nonreplicating) for Preexposure Vaccination of Persons at Risk for Occupational Exposure to Orthopoxviruses: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(22);734–42.
  This report describes the ACIP recommendations for the use of JYNNEOS for preexposure prophylaxis in persons at occupational risk for exposure to orthopoxviruses…
• Ward LA, Black KP, Britton CL, Tompkins ML, Provost EM. COVID-19 Cases, Hospitalizations, and Deaths Among American Indian or Alaska Native Persons — Alaska, 2020–2021 MMWR. 2022;71(22);730–3.
  Culturally competent public health efforts designed in collaboration with AI/AN persons and communities, including support for vaccination and other proven COVID-19 prevention strategies, are critical to reducing COVID-19–associated disparities among AI/AN persons in Alaska…

May 2022

• Sapkota S, Caruso E, Kobau R, Radhakrishnan L, Jobst B, DeVies J, et al. Seizure- or Epilepsy-Related Emergency Department Visits Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic — United States, 2019–2021 MMWR. 2022;71(21);703–8.
  These findings reinforce the importance of understanding factors associated with ED avoidance among persons with epilepsy or seizure, the importance that all eligible persons be up to date with COVID-19 vaccination, and the need to encourage persons to seek appropriate care for seizure-related emergencies…
• Rachlin A, Patel JC, Burns CC, Jorba J, Tallis G, O’Leary A, et al. Progress Toward Polio Eradication — Worldwide, January 2020–April 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(19);650–5.
  This report describes global progress toward polio eradication during January 1, 2020–April 30, 2022, and updates previous reports…
• Prasad N, Derado G, Nanduri SA, Reses HE, Dubendris H, Wong E, et al. Effectiveness of a COVID-19 Additional Primary or Booster Vaccine Dose in Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Infection Among Nursing Home Residents During Widespread Circulation of the Omicron Variant — United States, February 14–March 27, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(18);633–7.
  All immunocompromised nursing home residents should receive an additional primary dose, and all nursing home residents should receive a booster dose, when eligible, to protect against COVID-19…
• Rao AK, Briggs D, Moore SM, Whitehill F, Campos-Outcalt D, Morgan RL, et al. Use of a Modified Preexposure Prophylaxis Vaccination Schedule to Prevent Human Rabies: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(18);619–27.
  The updates are as efficacious as previous recommendations and might facilitate improved adherence to vaccination recommendations…

April 2022

• Pritchard N, Worrell MC, Shahum A, Nwankwo A, Smith D, Koch JJ, et al. Notes from the Field: Response to Measles Among Persons Evacuated from Afghanistan — Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, August–October 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(17);609–10.
  Future missions might consider vaccination of persons before arrival, reinforcing disease surveillance, and expanding capabilities for isolation, quarantine, and local testing…
• Clarke KEN, Jones JM, Deng Y, Nycz E, Lee A, Iachan R, et al. Seroprevalence of Infection-Induced SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies — United States, September 2021–February 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(17);606-8.
  This report uses data from CDC’s national commercial laboratory seroprevalence study and the 2018 American Community Survey to examine U.S. trends in infection-induced SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence during September 2021–February 2022, by age group…
• Truman BI, Chang M, Moonesinghe R. Provisional COVID-19 Age-Adjusted Death Rates, by Race and Ethnicity — United States, 2020–2021 MMWR. 2022;71(17);601-5.
  This report adds previously unknown changes in relative disparity among White persons, who account for the overwhelming majority of all COVID-19 deaths, emphasizing the critical need for nationwide efforts to reduce AADR among all racial and ethnic groups during 2022 and beyond…
• Masters NB, Mathis AD, Leung J, Raines K, Clemmons NS, Miele K, et al. Public Health Actions to Control Measles Among Afghan Evacuees During Operation Allies Welcome — United States, September–November 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(17);592–6.
  Mass vaccination of an undervaccinated evacuee population can limit measles importations, control measles spread, and prevent transmission into U.S. communities…
• Shi DS, Whitaker M, Marks KJ, Anglin O, Milucky J, Patel K, et al. Hospitalizations of Children Aged 5–11 Years with Laboratory-Confirmed COVID-19 — COVID-NET, 14 States, March 2020–February 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(16);574-81.
  Increasing COVID-19 vaccination coverage among children aged 5–11 years, particularly among racial and ethnic minority groups disproportionately affected by COVID-19, can prevent COVID-19–associated hospitalization and severe outcomes…
• Seither R, Laury J, Mugerwa-Kasujja A, Knighton CL, Black CL. Vaccination Coverage with Selected Vaccines and Exemption Rates Among Children in Kindergarten — United States, 2020–21 School Year MMWR. 2022;71(16);561–8.
  This report summarizes data collected for the 2020–21 school year by state and local immunization programs on vaccination coverage among children in kindergarten in 47 states and the District of Columbia (DC), exemptions for kindergartners in 48 states and DC, and provisional enrollment or grace period status for kindergartners in 28 states…
• Plumb ID, Feldstein LR, Barkley E, Posner AB, Bregman HS, Hagen MB, et al. Effectiveness of COVID-19 mRNA Vaccination in Preventing COVID-19–Associated Hospitalization Among Adults with Previous SARS-CoV-2 Infection — United States, June 2021–February 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(15);549-55.
  To prevent COVID-19–associated hospitalization, all eligible persons should stay up to date with vaccination, including those with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection…
• Smith DJ, Hakim AJ, Leung GM, Xu W, Schluter WW, Novak RT, et al. COVID-19 Mortality and Vaccine Coverage — Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China, January 6, 2022–March 21, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(15);545-8.
  Efforts to identify and address gaps in age-specific vaccination coverage can help prevent high mortality from COVID-19, especially in older adults…
• Wilkinson AL, Diop OM, Jorba J, Gardner T, Snider CJ, Ahmed J. Surveillance to Track Progress Toward Polio Eradication — Worldwide, 2020–2021 MMWR. 2022;71(15);538–44.
  This report summarizes surveillance performance indicators for 2020 and 2021 in 43 priority countries and updates previous reports…
• Grome HN, Yackley J, Goonewardene D, Cushing A, Souza M, Carlson A, et al. Translocation of an Anteater (Tamandua tetradactyla) Infected with Rabies from Virginia to Tennessee Resulting in Multiple Human Exposures, 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(15);533–7.
  This report describes expansion of the wide mammalian species diversity susceptible to rabies virus infection and summarizes the investigation, highlighting coordination among veterinary and human public health partners and the importance of preexposure rabies vaccination for animal handlers and exotic zoo animals…
•  Roskosky M, Borah BF, DeJonge PM, Donovan CV, Blevins LZ, Lafferty AG, et al. Notes from the Field: SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant Infection in 10 Persons Within 90 Days of Previous SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant Infection — Four States, October 2021–January 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(14);524–6.
  This report describes 10 patients from four states, with whole genome sequencing (WGS)–confirmed Omicron variant infections within 90 days of a previous Delta infection…
• Block JP, Boehmer TK, Forrest CB, Carton TW, Lee GM, Ajani UA, et al. Cardiac Complications After SARS-CoV-2 Infection and mRNA COVID-19 Vaccination — PCORnet, United States, January 2021–January 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(14);517-23.
  Data from 40 health care systems participating in a large network found that the risk for cardiac complications was significantly higher after SARS-CoV-2 infection than after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination for both males and females in all age groups…
• Natarajan K, Prasad N, Dascomb K, Irving SA, Yang D, Gaglani M, et al. Effectiveness of Homologous and Heterologous COVID-19 Booster Doses Following 1 Ad.26.COV2.S (Janssen [Johnson & Johnson]) Vaccine Dose Against COVID-19–Associated Emergency Department and Urgent Care Encounters and Hospitalizations Among Adults — VISION Network, 10 States, December 2021–March 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(13);495–502.
  All eligible persons should receive recommended COVID-19 booster doses to prevent moderate to severe COVID-19…
• Weng MK, Doshani M, Khan MA, Frey S, Ault K, Moore KL, et al. Universal Hepatitis B Vaccination in Adults Aged 19–59 Years: Updated Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(13);477–83.
  In addition to groups for whom HepB vaccination is already recommended, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends that all adults aged 19–59 years should receive HepB vaccines….

March 2022

•  Taylor CA, Whitaker M, Anglin O, Milucky J, Patel K, Pham H, et al. COVID-19–Associated Hospitalizations Among Adults During SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron Variant Predominance, by Race/Ethnicity and Vaccination Status — COVID-NET, 14 States, July 2021–January 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(12);466–73.
  Implementing strategies that result in the equitable receipt of COVID-19 vaccinations among persons with disproportionately higher hospitalizations rates, including non-Hispanic Black adults, is an urgent public health priority…
• Tenforde MW, Self WH, Gaglani M, Ginde AA, Douin DJ, Talbot K, et al. Effectiveness of mRNA Vaccination in Preventing COVID-19–Associated Invasive Mechanical Ventilation and Death — United States, March 2021–January 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(12);459–65.
  CDC recommends that all persons eligible for vaccination get vaccinated and stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccination…
• Marks KJ, Whitaker M, Agathis NT, Anglin O, Milucky J, Patel K, et al. Hospitalization of Infants and Children Aged 0–4 Years with Laboratory-Confirmed COVID-19 — COVID-NET, 14 States, March 2020–February 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(11);429–36.
• Important strategies to prevent COVID-19 among infants and young children include vaccination of currently eligible populations such as pregnant women, family members, and caregivers of infants and young children…
• Fowlkes AL, Yoon SK, Lutrick K, Gwynn L, Burns J, Grant L, et al. Effectiveness of 2-Dose BNT162b2 (Pfizer BioNTech) mRNA Vaccine in Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Infection Among Children Aged 5–11 Years and Adolescents Aged 12–15 Years — PROTECT Cohort, July 2021–February 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(11);422–8.
  All eligible children and adolescents should remain up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations…
• Wallace M, Moulia D, Blain AE, Ricketts EK, Minhaj FS, Link-Gelles R, et al. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ Recommendation for Use of Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine in Adults Aged ≥18 Years and Considerations for Extended Intervals for Administration of Primary Series Doses of mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines — United States, February 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(11);416–21.
  Use of the FDA-approved Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for persons aged ≥18 years; benefits of the prevention of infection and associated hospitalization or death outweigh vaccine-associated risks…
• Kanu FA, Yusuf N, Kassogue M, Ahmed B, Tohme RA. Progress Toward Achieving and Sustaining Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus Elimination — Worldwide, 2000–2020 MMWR. 2022;71(11);406–11.
  This report summarizes progress toward achieving and sustaining MNTE during 2000–2020 and updates a previous report…
• Leung J, Reid HD, Morgan J, Kadyk H, Havener G, Marin M. Notes from the Field: Congenital Varicella Syndrome Case — Illinois, 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(10);390–2.
  This case of congenital varicella syndrome is a reminder that varicella during pregnancy can cause severe outcomes and underscores the importance of assessing varicella immunity in adults, vaccinating nonimmune persons, as well as prenatal assessment and postpartum vaccination of susceptible women against varicella…
• Donovan CV, Rose C, Lewis KN, Vang K, Stanley N, Motley M, et al. SARS-CoV-2 Incidence in K–12 School Districts with Mask-Required Versus Mask-Optional Policies — Arkansas, August–October 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(10);384–9.
  Masks remain an important part of a multicomponent approach to prevent COVID-19 in K–12 settings, especially in communities with high levels of COVID-19…
• Kim C, Yee R, Bhatkoti R, Carranza D, Henderson D, Kuwabara SA, et al. COVID-19 Vaccine Provider Access and Vaccination Coverage Among Children Aged 5–11 Years — United States, November 2021–January 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(10);378–83.
  Broad vaccine access should be maintained while critical outreach efforts continue to improve vaccine coverage among children aged 5–11 years, especially in high SVI areas…
• Chung JR, Kim SS, Kondor RJ, Smith C, Budd AP, Tartof SY, et al. Interim Estimates of 2021–22 Seasonal Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness — United States, February 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(10);365–70.
  CDC recommends influenza vaccination for as long as influenza viruses are circulating…
• O’Connor P, Huseynov S, Nielsen CF, Saidzoda F, Saxentoff E, Sadykova U, et al. Notes from the Field: Readiness for Use of Type 2 Novel Oral Poliovirus Vaccine in Response to a Type 2 Circulating Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus Outbreak — Tajikistan, 2020–2021 MMWR. 2022;71(9);361–2.
  A total of 31 cVDPV2 cases were confirmed during November 22, 2020–June 26, 2021, with none occurring after the second SIA; virus was also isolated from close contacts of AFP cases, community-based stool collection surveys, and environmental samples…
• Klein NP, Stockwell MS, Demarco M, Gaglani M, Kharbanda AB, et al. Effectiveness of COVID-19 Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 mRNA Vaccination in Preventing COVID-19–Associated Emergency Department and Urgent Care Encounters and Hospitalizations Among Nonimmunocompromised Children and Adolescents Aged 5–17 Years — VISION Network, 10 States, April 2021–January 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(9);352–8.
  This report provides real-world evidence of protection by the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine against COVID-19–associated ED and UC encounters and hospitalizations among children and adolescents aged 5–17 years and supports the role of third (booster) doses in maintaining high levels of VE in the setting of Omicron predominance…
• Hause AM, Baggs J, Marquez P, Abara WE, Olubajo B, Myers TR, et al. Safety Monitoring of COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Doses Among Persons Aged 12–17 Years — United States, December 9, 2021–February 20, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(9);347–51.
  This report assessed local and systemic reactions and health impacts reported during the week after vaccination among adolescent v-safe registrants who received a homologous Pfizer-BioNTech booster dose ≥5 months after completion of their primary series during December 9, 2021–February 20, 2022…
• Baker JM, Nakayama JY, O’Hegarty M, McGowan A, Teran RA, Bart SM, et al. SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529 (Omicron) Variant Transmission Within Households — Four U.S. Jurisdictions, November 2021–February 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(9);341–6.
  Multicomponent COVID-19 prevention strategies, including up-to-date vaccination, isolation of infected persons, and mask use at home, are important to reduce Omicron transmission in household settings…
• Saelee R, Zell E, Murthy BP, Castro-Roman P, Fast H, Meng L, et al. Disparities in COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage Between Urban and Rural Counties — United States, December 14, 2020–January 31, 2022  MMWR. 2022;71(9);335–40.
  Addressing barriers to vaccination in rural areas is critical to achieving vaccine equity, reducing disparities, and decreasing COVID-19–related illness and death in the United States…

February 2022

• Mack CD, Wasserman EB, Killerby ME, Soelaeman RH, Hall AJ, MacNeil A, et al. Results from a Test-to-Release from Isolation Strategy Among Fully Vaccinated National Football League Players and Staff Members with COVID-19 — United States, December 14–19, 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(8);299–305.
  This report describes data from NFL’s SARS-CoV-2 testing program (3) and time to first negative or Ct≥35 result based on serial COVID-19 patient testing during isolation…
• Lefferts B, Blake I, Bruden D, Hagen MB, Hodges E, Kirking HL, et al. Antigen Test Positivity After COVID-19 Isolation — Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta Region, Alaska, January–February 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(8);293–8.
  Antigen tests might be a useful tool to guide recommendations for isolation after SARS-CoV-2 infection…
• Malenfant JH, Joyce A, Choi MJ, Cossaboom CM, Whitesell AN, Harcourt BH, et al. Use of Ebola Vaccine: Expansion of Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices To Include Two Additional Populations — United States, 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(8);290–2.
  Preexposure vaccination can protect those at occupational risk for exposure to Ebola virus…
• Servies TE, Larsen EC, Lindsay RC, Jones JS, Cer RZ, Voegtly LJ, et al. Notes from the Field: Outbreak of COVID-19 Among a Highly Vaccinated Population Aboard a U.S. Navy Ship After a Port Visit — Reykjavik, Iceland, July 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(7);279–81.
  This outbreak in the enclosed environment of a ship suggests that high vaccination rates, in combination with COVID-19 prevention measures, can substantially reduce the spread of SARS-CoV-2, despite the high transmissibility of the Delta variant and introduction of SARS-CoV-2 into a congregate setting…
• Marks KJ, Whitaker M, Anglin O, Milucky J, Patel K, Pham H, et al. Hospitalizations of Children and Adolescents with Laboratory-Confirmed COVID-19 — COVID-NET, 14 States, July 2021–January 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(7);271–8.
  This report analyzes data from the Coronavirus Disease 19–Associated Hospitalization Surveillance Network (COVID-NET)§ to describe COVID-19–associated hospitalizations among U.S. children (aged 0–11 years) and adolescents (aged 12–17 years) during periods of Delta (July 1–December 18, 2021) and Omicron (December 19, 2021–January 22, 2022) predominance…
• Halasa NB, Olson SM, Staat MA, Newhams MM, Price AM, Boom JA, et al. Effectiveness of Maternal Vaccination with mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine During Pregnancy Against COVID-19–Associated Hospitalization in Infants Aged <6 Months — 17 States, July 2021–January 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(7);264–70.
  Completion of a 2-dose mRNA COVID-19 vaccination series during pregnancy might help prevent COVID-19 hospitalization among infants aged <6 months…
• Ferdinands JM, Rao S, Dixon BE, Mitchell PK, DeSilva MB, Irving SA, et al. Waning 2-Dose and 3-Dose Effectiveness of mRNA Vaccines Against COVID-19–Associated Emergency Department and Urgent Care Encounters and Hospitalizations Among Adults During Periods of Delta and Omicron Variant Predominance — VISION Network, 10 States, August 2021–January 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(7);255–63.
  All eligible persons should remain up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations to best protect against COVID-19–associated hospitalizations and ED/UC visits…
• Hause AM, Baggs J, Marquez P, Myers TR, Su JR, Blanc PG, et al. Safety Monitoring of COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Doses Among Adults — United States, September 22, 2021–February 6, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(7);249–54.
  All persons aged ≥12 years should receive a COVID-19 booster dose…
•  Sami S, Horter L, Valencia D, Thomas I, Pomeroy M, Walker B, et al. Investigation of SARS-CoV-2 Transmission Associated With a Large Indoor Convention — New York City, November–December 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(7);243–8.
  Implementing multiple prevention measures (vaccinations and boosters, consistent mask wearing, enhanced indoor ventilation, and testing after text notification) can limit the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 at large events, including highly transmissible variants…
• Smith-Jeffcoat SE, Pomeroy MA, Sleweon S, Sami S, Ricaldi JN, Gebru Y, et al. Multistate Outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529 (Omicron) Variant Infections Among Persons in a Social Network Attending a Convention — New York City, November 18–December 20, 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(7);238–42.
  Data from this investigation reinforce the importance of COVID-19 booster doses and early notification in combination with other multicomponent prevention measures to limit transmission and prevent severe illness from Omicron and other SARS-CoV-2 variants…
• Wodi AP, Murthy N, Bernstein H, McNally V, Cineas S, Ault K. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices Recommended Immunization Schedule for Children and Adolescents Aged 18 Years or Younger — United States, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(7);234–7.
  The 2022 child and adolescent immunization schedule, found on the CDC immunization schedule website, summarizes ACIP recommendations, including several changes from the 2021 immunization schedule† on the cover page, tables, and notes…
• Murthy N, Wodi AP, Bernstein H, McNally V, Cineas S, Ault K. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices Recommended Immunization Schedule for Adults Aged 19 Years or Older — United States, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(7);229–33.
  The 2022 adult immunization schedule summarizes ACIP recommendations, including several changes to the cover page, tables, and notes from the 2021 immunization schedule…
• Modes ME, Directo MP, Melgar M, Johnson LR, Yang H, Chaudhary P, et al. Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes Among Adults Hospitalized with Laboratory-Confirmed SARS-CoV-2 Infection During Periods of B.1.617.2 (Delta) and B.1.1.529 (Omicron) Variant Predominance — One Hospital, California, July 15–September 23, 2021, and December 21, 2021–January 27, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(6);217–23.
  COVID-19 vaccination, particularly a booster dose, continues to be critical in mitigating the health care burden of the Omicron variant…
• Andrejko KL, Pry JM, Myers JF, Fukui N, DeGuzman JL, Openshaw J, et al. Effectiveness of Face Mask or Respirator Use in Indoor Public Settings for Prevention of SARS-CoV-2 Infection — California, February–December 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(6);212–6.
  In addition to being up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations, consistently wearing a comfortable, well-fitting face mask or respirator in indoor public settings protects against acquisition of SARS-CoV-2 infection…
• Zimmerman LA, Knapp JK, Antoni S, Grant GB, Reef SE. Progress Toward Rubella and Congenital Rubella Syndrome Control and Elimination — Worldwide, 2012–2020 MMWR. 2022;71(6);196–201.
  This report updates a previous report and summarizes global progress toward control and elimination of rubella and CRS from 2012, when accelerated rubella control activities were initiated, through 2020…
• Tesoriero JM, Patterson W, Daskalakis D, Chicoine  J, Morne J, Braunstein S, et al. Notes from the Field: COVID-19 Vaccination Among Persons Living with Diagnosed HIV Infection — New York, October 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(5);182–4.
  CDC considers PLWDH who have a low CD4 cell count or who are not receiving HIV treatment to be at elevated risk for severe COVID-19–associated outcomes…
• Danza P, Hee Koo T, Haddix M, Fisher R, Traub E, OYong K, et al. SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Hospitalization Among Adults Aged ≥18 Years, by Vaccination Status, Before and During SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529 (Omicron) Variant Predominance — Los Angeles County, California, November 7, 2021–January 8, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(5);177–81.
  Being up to date with COVID-19 vaccination is critical to protecting against SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalization…
• McNaghten AD, Brewer NT, Hung M, Lu P, Daskalakis D, Abad N, et al. COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage and Vaccine Confidence by Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity — United States, August 29–October 30, 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(5);171–6.
  To prevent serious illness and death, all persons in the United States, including those in the LGBT community, should stay up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations…

January 2022

• Iuliano AD, Brunkard JM, Boehmer TK, Peterson E, Adjei S, Binder AM, et al. Trends in Disease Severity and Health Care Utilization During the Early Omicron Variant Period Compared with Previous SARS-CoV-2 High Transmission Periods — United States, December 2020–January 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(4);146–52.
  Although disease severity appears lower with the Omicron variant, the high volume of hospitalizations can strain local health care systems and the average daily number of deaths remains substantial…
• Thompson MG, Natarajan K, Irving SA, Rowley EA, Griggs EP, Gaglani M, et al. Effectiveness of a Third Dose of mRNA Vaccines Against COVID-19–Associated Emergency Department and Urgent Care Encounters and Hospitalizations Among Adults During Periods of Delta and Omicron Variant Predominance — VISION Network, 10 States, August 2021–January 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(4);139–45.
  During both Delta- and Omicron-predominant periods, receipt of a third vaccine dose was highly effective at preventing COVID-19–associated emergency department and urgent care encounters (94% and 82%, respectively) and preventing COVID-19–associated hospitalizations (94% and 90%, respectively)…
• Johnson AG, Amin AB, Ali AR, Hoots B, Cadwell BL, Arora S, et al. COVID-19 Incidence and Death Rates Among Unvaccinated and Fully Vaccinated Adults with and Without Booster Doses During Periods of Delta and Omicron Variant Emergence — 25 U.S. Jurisdictions, April 4–December 25, 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(4);132–8.
  COVID-19 vaccination protected against SARS-CoV-2 infection, even as the Omicron variant became predominant…
• León TM, Dorabawila V, Nelson L, Lutterloh E, Bauer UE, Backenson B, et al. COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations by COVID-19 Vaccination Status and Previous COVID-19 Diagnosis — California and New York, May–November 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(4);125–31.
  Although the epidemiology of COVID-19 might change as new variants emerge, vaccination remains the safest strategy for averting future SARS-CoV-2 infections, hospitalizations, long-term sequelae, and death…
• Tenforde MW, Patel MM, Gaglani M, Ginde AA, Douin DJ, Talbot K, et al. Effectiveness of a Third Dose of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna Vaccines in Preventing COVID-19 Hospitalization Among Immunocompetent and Immunocompromised Adults — United States, August–December 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(4);118–24.
  Administration of a third COVID-19 mRNA vaccine dose as part of a primary series among immunocompromised adults, or as a booster dose among immunocompetent adults, provides improved protection against COVID-19–associated hospitalization…
• Kobayashi M, Farrar JL, Gierke R, Britton A, Childs L, Leidner AJ, et al. Use of 15-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine and 20-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine Among U.S. Adults: Updated Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(4);109–17.
  Pneumococcal vaccination recommendations were simplified across age and risk group…
• Wiltz JL, Feehan AK, Molinari NM, Ladva CN, Truman BI, Hall J, et al. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Receipt of Medications for Treatment of COVID-19 — United States, March 2020–August 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(3);96–102.
  Equitable receipt of COVID-19 treatments by race and ethnicity along with vaccines and other prevention practices are essential to reduce inequities in severe COVID-19–associated illness and death…
• Oliver SE, Wallace M, See I, Mbaeyi S, Godfrey M, Hadler SC, et al. Use of the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 Vaccine: Updated Interim Recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, December 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(3);90–5.
  Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are preferred over the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine for primary and booster vaccination…
• Sadigh KS, Akbar IE, Wadood MZ, Shukla H, Jorba J, Chaudhury S, et al. Progress Toward Poliomyelitis Eradication ― Afghanistan, January 2020–November 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(3);85–9.
  Although challenges remain, prospects for vaccination of previously inaccessible children along with sustained, robust polio eradication efforts in Afghanistan could result in substantial progress toward eradication during 2022–2023…
• Anderson TC, Masters NB, Guo A, Shepersky L, Leidner AJ, Lee GM, et al. Use of Recombinant Zoster Vaccine in Immunocompromised Adults Aged ≥19 Years: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2022 MMWR. 2022;71(3);80–4.
  With moderate to high vaccine efficacy and an acceptable safety profile, RZV has the potential to prevent considerable herpes zoster incidence and related complications…
• Barrett CE, Koyama AK, Alvarez P, Chow W, Lundeen EA, Perrine CG, et al. Risk for Newly Diagnosed Diabetes >30 Days After SARS-CoV-2 Infection Among Persons Aged <18 Years — United States, March 1, 2020–June 28, 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(2);59–65.
  The increased diabetes risk among persons aged <18 years following COVID-19 highlights the importance of COVID-19 prevention strategies in this age group, including vaccination for all eligible persons and chronic disease prevention and treatment…
• Carande-Kulis V, Elder RW, Matson- Koffman D. Standards Required for the Development of CDC Evidence-Based Guidelines MMWR. 2022;71(Sup-1);1–6.
  Since 1964, in partnership with the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), CDC has issued recommendations on the use of vaccines for diseases in children, adolescents, and adults in the United States…
• Lipkind HS, Vazquez-Benitez G, DeSilva M, Vesco KK, Ackerman-Banks C, Zhu J, et al. Receipt of COVID-19 Vaccine During Pregnancy and Preterm or Small-for-Gestational-Age at Birth — Eight Integrated Health Care Organizations, United States, December 15, 2020–July 22, 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(1);26–30.
  These data support the safety of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy. CDC recommends COVID-19 vaccination for women who are pregnant, recently pregnant, who are trying to become pregnant now, or who might become pregnant in the future…
• Zambrano LD, Newhams MM, Olson SM, Halasa NB, Price AM, Boom JA, et al. Effectiveness of BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech) mRNA Vaccination Against Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children Among Persons Aged 12–18 Years — United States, July–December 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(2);52–8.
  Receipt of 2 doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is highly effective in preventing MIS-C in persons aged 12–18 years…
• Yek C, Warner S, Wiltz JL, Sun J, Adjei S, Mancera A, et al. Risk Factors for Severe COVID-19 Outcomes Among Persons Aged ≥18 Years Who Completed a Primary COVID-19 Vaccination Series — 465 Health Care Facilities, United States, December 2020–October 2021 MMWR. 2022;71(1);19–25.
  Although vaccination remains the leading recommendation to protect against COVID-19, TTS allows close contacts to remain in the classroom as an alternative to home quarantine…