HHS increases Tamiflu access through Strategic National Stockpile

Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response, is making additional supply of Tamiflu available to jurisdictions to respond to an increased demand for the antiviral during this flu season, especially through the Strategic National Stockpile.

Jurisdictions will work with their ASPR Regional Teams to evaluate any requests for Tamiflu through the SNS. The system has been set up to ensure that states receive needed assistance with effecting preparedness for future pandemics or flu outbreaks.

Last week, ASPR gave flexibility to states to utlilize Tamiflu in their stockpiles that were formerly set aside for a pandemic flu – making millions of treatment courses available heading into the winter months.

WHAT'S THE IMPACT?

HHS said it has partnered closely with jurisdictions for months to address any strain to healthcare systems created by the confluence of COVID-19, flu and RSV – with a specific focus on expanding access to medicines under high demand. 

Manufacturers continue to report that they are running manufacturing facilities 24/7 to address high demand and have encouraged the public to buy only what they need.

On December 2 HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra sent a letter to states highlighting resources and flexibilities available this winter, including Centers for Disease Control funding, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services waivers, telehealth flexibilities and ASPR surge resources. 

The Food and Drug Administration and ASPR have been engaged with jurisdictions, manufacturers and stakeholders such as pediatric associations and hospitals to monitor for any potential vulnerabilities to the health resources supply chain.

Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Dawn O'Connell said the country is now more prepared for the surge.

"As a result," she said, "jurisdictions will be able to get the support they need to keep Americans healthy as flu cases rise this winter."

THE LARGER TREND

In November, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned of a surge in flu, RSV and other viral infections this season, especially among children and older adults.

The rise of respiratory diseases this year may be the direct result of COVID-19, because children may now be exposed to other viruses for the first time, according to the CDC. HHS has not declared a public health emergency for hospitals overcrowded with patients suffering from RSV and influenza, despite a request for a PHE from children's hospital groups.

ON THE RECORD

"We have made it clear to every Governor that the Biden-Harris Administration stands ready to assist with resources and supplies," said Becerra, who sent a letter to governors on December 2. "Today we are taking action so that every jurisdiction can meet the increased demand for Tamiflu this flu season. State stockpiles can be utilized, and if jurisdictions need access to the Strategic National Stockpile, they now have it to respond to the current seasonal flu outbreak."

Twitter: @JELagasse
Email the writer: Jeff.Lagasse@himssmedia.com