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Indications for antivirals
NDDoH requests providers to follow CDC
recommended indications for antiviral treatment of influenza
which can be found at
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/recommendations.htm; however,
NDDoH is not at this time restricting provider use of
antiviral medication. The North Dakota cache is supplying
pharmacies with antiviral medications when their supplies run
low.
Access to antivirals for those who cannot afford them (pdf)
Use of surgical masks from the state
cache
Surgical masks from the North Dakota cache
are approved for use by health-care personnel and inpatients
with influenza when they leave their room. Limited
quantities make mask provision for all outpatients from the
state cache unfeasible. Alternative face coverings
to contain secretions from coughs and sneezes should be
considered (e.g., cloth).
Use of N95 respirators from the state
cache
N95 respirators are approved for use by
licensed health care personnel including inpatient, outpatient,
EMS, certified first responders are at increased risk due to
their job. Respirators from the state cache may be used for
fit testing at this time. NDDoH has not implemented mandatory
N95 conservation measures at this time.
Residency Status and Vaccination
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the
Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has indicated that
no one should be turned away from receiving the H1N1 vaccine
because they are not a resident of the jurisdiction issuing the
vaccine. While the North Dakota Department of Health can not
require local public health units and private clinics to
vaccinate non-residents, we recommend local public
health units, private clinics and other vaccinators to follow
the CDC recommendations.
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