CDC releases updated COVID-19 guidance

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posted interim guidance for health care facilities this week to guide preparations for a potential surge in patients infected with COVID-19. The agency also held an outreach call for clinicians yesterday. The slides from that presentation contain links to resources for controlling the spread of COVID-19 and guidelines for treating infected patients. Congress reached a deal on an $8.3 billion funding package to support health prevention, preparedness and response efforts related to the virus as well as research and development of a COVID-19 vaccine. The bill also allows the Department of Health and Human Services Secretary to waive certain Medicare telehealth restrictions during the coronavirus public health emergency. In related news, the Food and Drug Administration was notified this week for the first time of a drug shortage related to the virus. Many drugs are manufactured in China, where COVID-19 originated. The American Hospital Association continues to monitor the situation and provide resources on a dedicated webpage.