Coronavirus News Roundup: FDA Approves Remdesivir, HHS Clarifies Guidance on Pharmacy Vaccine Administration

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has infected an estimated 39,068,667 individuals worldwide at publishing time, and nearly 8 million Americans. The latest COVID-19-related news includes the FDA approval of remdesivir for the treatment of COVID-19, and the recent partnership between the Trump administration, CVS, and Walgreens in facilitating the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines to long term care facilities (LTCFs).

Here’s a roundup of the latest coronavirus-related news:

Pharmacists Are Key Players in Improving Vaccination Rates During Pandemic​

Under normal circumstances, pharmacists are a critical component of vaccine uptake, as well as a trusted resource for patients looking to gain information and make informed decisions about the risks and benefits of vaccination. Now, with the “twindemic” of the COVID-19 and influenza season underway, the pharmacy workforce, more than ever, are positioned to support uptake of flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Read our coverage from the National Community Pharmacists Association 2020 Annual Convention for more.

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FDA Approves Remdesivir for Treatment of COVID-19​

Officials with the FDA have approved Gilead’s remdesivir (Veklury) for the treatment of COVID-19, making it the first FDA-approved treatment for the disease, the company announced.

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HHS Clarifies Guidance for Pharmacy Interns, Techs to Administer COVID-19, Childhood Vaccines​

In a new guidance, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) offered clarification on the requirements for pharmacy interns and technicians to be able to administer childhood vaccines and COVID-19 vaccines once available.

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CVS Hiring 10,000 Pharmacy Techs to Support Flu, COVID-19 Response​

CVS Health is hiring more than 10,000 full-time and part-time pharmacy technicians to meet the demand for flu vaccinations and, in the future, COVID-19 vaccinations.

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Trump Administration to Partner With CVS, Walgreens to Provide COVID-19 Vaccines to Long-Term Care Facilities​

HHS and the Department of Defense recently announced a new agreement with CVS and Walgreens to provide and administer COVID-19 vaccines to residents of LTCFs nationwide.

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