The California Department of Public Health (CDPHi) Influenza
Surveillance Program is a collaborative effort between CDPH, the
CDC, Kaiser Permanente, California local health jurisdictions and
participating sentinel providers and laboratories.
Annual influenza epidemics follow a winter seasonal pattern in
the United States with typical activity peaking during late
December to early February. CDPH obtains and analyzes clinical,
pharmacy and laboratory data year-round in an effort to determine
the timing and impact of influenza activity and to determine how
well circulating strains of the virus match those used in the
current influenza vaccines.
The most current weekly report on influenza and other respiratory
disease activity can be found below, under “Hot Topics &
Updates.”
The CDC is recommending that emergency antiviral drugs
within state and local stockpiles not be used to treat seasonal
influenza cases.
These drugs (Tamiflu and Relenza) purchased under government
contracts have previously received an expiration date extension
for up to 7 years. In addition, the FDA is allowing the use
of Tamiflu capsules from these stockpiles past the 7 year product
shelf life.
Tamiflu capsules held in strategic stockpiles may now be used for
a maximum of 10 years beyond manufacture date. FDA will not take
enforcement action with regard to the storage or emergency use of
these lots of Tamiflu capsules, provided that the products have
been stored under labeled storage conditions.
Due to the recent increase in influenza patients, hospitals
should review requirements for tent use. According to a new State
Fire Marshal (SMF) policy, tents with labels do not have to be
annually recertified. Other current requirements are detailed in
the attached California Department of Public Health (CDPHi)
guidance. Hospitals should note that the CDPH Licensing and
Certification (L&C) district office must provide written
approval for tent use as explained in All Facility Letter 09-39.
In the absence of any specific suspension of statute or
regulation by Governor’s Executive Order, tents will be approved
for use only as waiting rooms; to conduct triage and medical
screening exams; and to provide basic first-aid and outpatient
treatment that meets all applicable rules and regulations. Any
other use may require a program flex. The SFM approves the
nonflammable material used in tents, and requires each section of
the top and sidewalls of tents designed to hold 10 or more
occupants to have an SFM-approval label. Hospitals should only
use tents with an SFM label. If no labels are affixed to tents,
hospitals should contact their local fire jurisdiction.
In addition:
Local fire marshals, depending on their jurisdiction, may
have a variety of requirements as prerequisites for tent use.
Hospital owners should be in contact with their local fire
marshals now to learn the requirements prior to the use of a
tent.
OSHPD will review utility connections for tents that
originate in, pass through or pass under buildings regulated by
OSHPD. OSHPD will also require that tents do not obstruct the
required means of egress from the hospital. OSHPD is willing to
pre-approve the use of a tent when a hospital can specifically
designate where it will be located on the hospital grounds.
Hospitals are encouraged to receive this preapproval. This can be
scheduled through a field review by area compliance staff.
