The Respiratory Disease Trifecta: What to Know About COVID-19, Flu, and RSV

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Article
Drug Topics JournalDrug Topics November/December 2023
Volume 167
Issue 10

In order to provide the best care, it’s crucial that pharmacists stay up-to-date on the latest guidance and data for flu, COVID-19, and RSV—even when that information is constantly changing.

The 2023-2024 respiratory virus season is upon us. What’s notable about this season compared with seasons past, though, is that for the first time, immunizations are available for all 3 major respiratory diseases: influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).1 For some, the pharmacy is the first stop when illness sets in. In order to provide the best care, it’s crucial that pharmacists stay up-to-date on the latest guidance and data for flu, COVID-19, and RSV—even when that information is constantly changing.

To help pharmacists rise to the challenge, we’ve collected all of the latest information on vaccines, tests, and treatments in the following reference guide for pharmacists to look back on all respiratory season long.

A note about vaccines: According to the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations,2 pharmacists in every state are allowed to administer immunizations; however, the details of that authorization vary by state. Pharmacists should check their state laws for the most up-to-date immunization authority.

READ MORE: Respiratory Resource Center

References
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2. Pharmacist immunization authority. National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations. April 25, 2023. Accessed October 10, 2023. https://naspa.us/blog/resource/pharmacist-authority-to-immunize/
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