UPDATED AT 2:00 PM: State & Federal Officials On #Coronavirus For Friday, March 13
Staff
State and federal officials are working to keep residents informed as they continue working to protect Americans from Coronavirus.
According to the Center for Disease Control, coronaviruses are common throughout the world and can infect people and animals.
The World Health Organization has now qualified the coronavirus as an international pandemic. And says the large family of viruses can cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe conditions.
A novel coronavirus is a new strain and has not been previously identified in humans.
Like the flu, people with severe chronic medical conditions and who are over the age of sixty are at a higher risk of getting sick and developing more severe conditions.
Federal and state officials are working continuously to ensure outbreaks do not occur in U.S. communities.
The following updates are only intended to keep Texas communities informed.
Not only for your protection but the safety of others, please follow this list of guidelines
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then wash your hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• UPDATE: 3/13/2020 at 6:30 PM
SPECIAL NOTE ON THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF CASES WITH POSITIVE TEST RESULTS FOR CORONAVIRUS IN TEXAS
The table below shows the “official” number of positive Coronavirus cases in Texas as of March 13, 2020, at noon.
However, last night, in an interview, Governor Greg Abbott stated that Texas now has a total of 43 cases statewide. Gov. Abbott did not indicate which Texas counties had the newly reported cases.
The four new cases that Gov. Abbott referred to will not be added to the official count below from the Texas Department of State Health Services until they update the number of reported cases.
The Case Numbers Are Release By Texas Department of State Health Services
Can’t see the whole table? Touch it and scroll right.
| County of Residence2 | Number of Cases3 |
|---|---|
| Bell | 1 |
| Bexar | 1 |
| Collin | 5 |
| Dallas | 8 |
| El Paso | 1 |
| Fort Bend | 9 |
| Galveston | 1 |
| Gregg | 4 |
| Harris | 10 |
| Lavaca | 1 |
| Montgomery | 3 |
| Smith | 3 |
| Tarrant | 3 |
| Travis | 1 |
| Total | 51 |
1DSHS will update the state case count each day by 10 a.m. Central Time.
2Patient may be undergoing treatment in facilities in other counties.
3Does not include repatriation cases.
4Travis County cases are pending confirmation of county of residence.
Governor Abbott Holds Press Conference On Coronavirus, Declares State Of Disaster For All Texas Counties
AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott today held a press conference at the State Capitol to update the public on the status of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Texas and what the state is doing to protect public health.
The Governor also announced several new actions Texas is taking to mitigate the spread of the virus, including declaring a State of Disaster in all Texas counties.
The Governor was joined by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Commissioner John Hellerstedt, MD, and Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) Chief Nim Kidd for the press conference.
“From the very beginning, our number one objective has been to implement preventative strategies that build on our state’s existing public health capabilities so that no matter how this situation unfolds, Texas will be ready,” said Governor Abbott. “That is exactly what our state agencies have done. The State of Texas is prepared, and we continue to take proactive measures along with the support of our federal and local partners to contain this virus and keep Texans safe. Declaring a State of Disaster is a key component of these efforts because it allows the state to effectively serve the people of Texas without hindrance or delay. When Texans come together, there is nothing we can’t overcome—and it is up to all of us to work proactively and collaboratively to respond to this challenge and protect public health.”
By declaring a State of Disaster, several actions are triggered by the Governor, including:
- Authorizing the use of all available and necessary state government resources to help manage this situation.
- Activation of the state emergency management plan and the State Operations Center to enhance the state’s planning and response capabilities.
- Giving TDEM the ability to reassign & fully utilize appropriate personnel where they are needed most.
- Providing the immediate ability to move resources around the state, including resources obtained through the Strategic National Stockpile.
- Empowering the Office of the Texas Attorney General (OAG) to pursue cases of price-gouging and ensure that offenders are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
To protect the most vulnerable population, the Governor also directed state agencies to restrict visitations at some facilities.
This directive allows limited exceptions for situations like end-of-life visitations and requires all individuals to go through proper screening.
Agencies will be restricting visitation at the following facilities:
- Nursing homes
- State-supported living centers
- Hospitals
- Daycare facilities
- Prisons, jails, and juvenile justice facilities
Governor Abbott is also directing state agencies to take any action necessary to facilitate telemedicine. In addition, he is directing state agencies to provide flexible work and telework policies to employees to give them the ability to care for their families, while ensuring the state government continues to function at full capacity and provide all necessary services.
The Governor reassured the public that stockpiling supplies is not necessary. The State has been working closely with grocers and retailers to ensure shelves are replenished and that Texans have access to the goods and supplies they need.
Updates on testing capabilities were also announced during the press conference. Governor Abbott stated that Texas Public Health Labs now have the capacity to test over 270 people per day, with more private labs coming online every day.
Additionally, the City of San Antonio has announced the opening of the first drive-through testing facility in Texas. This facility will serve first responders, healthcare workers, operators of critical infrastructure and key resources, and specific high-risk patients.
Other major cities are working to implement drive-through testing sites that will be run and managed at the local level.
Governor Abbott addressed the actions being taken by the Texas Education Agency to prepare a proper response within school districts.
Texas is pursuing waivers for federal regulations for the school lunch program to give districts flexibility to provide students food should districts shut down due to the coronavirus.
The Governor also reminded the public that the state has asked health insurers and health maintenance organizations operating in Texas to waive costs associated with testing and telemedicine visits for the coronavirus.
Additionally, the Texas Department of Insurance is requesting that insurers report their actions related to consumer cost-sharing and access to services so that the department can ensure consumers are aware of their available benefits.
Texans who suspect a case of price-gouging in connection to the potential coronavirus threat should file a consumer complaint with the Consumer Protection Division of the Office of the OAG. Texans can also call the hotline at 1-800-621-0508.
Additionally, DPS wants to remind Texans of the many ways to conduct their DL transactions online without the need to come into an office. Some individuals may be eligible to skip the trip and quickly renew their Texas DL or identification (ID) card online (or by phone).
Address changes can also be taken care of online (or by mail) in many instances. Find out if you are eligible to renew online by visiting Texas.gov. The fee is the same for online, in-person and telephone renewals.
For additional information about renewing your driver’s license or ID card, visit the DPS website.
View the Governor’s Declaration
President Donald J. Trump Has Mobilized the Full Resources of the Federal Government to Respond to the Coronavirus
MOBILIZING ALL FEDERAL RESOURCES: President Donald J. Trump is leveraging the full power of the Federal Government to protect the health and safety of the American people.
- President Trump is exercising statutory authorities to declare a national emergency in response to the coronavirus.
- The unprecedented action the President is taking invites States, territories, and tribes to access over $42 billion in existing funding to combat the coronavirus.
- The Administration has taken decisive action to ensure State, local, and tribal leaders have the resources they need to provide protective measures for their communities.
- The Small Business Administration also has the authority and available funding to make over $7 billion in loans to qualifying small businesses to assist economic recovery.
- President Trump is directing further actions across his Administration in response to the coronavirus.
- The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has announced guidance to limit medically unnecessary visits to nursing homes to protect vulnerable elderly Americans
- The Secretary of Education will be waiving interest on all student loans held by the Federal Government.
- The President is directing the Department of Energy to purchase large quantities of crude oil for the strategic reserve.
- The President is urging every state to set up emergency operations centers and is asking every hospital to activate its emergency preparedness plan.
- President Trump continues to cut through every piece of unnecessary red tape that may hinder our response efforts and make every Federal resource available.
- The President will empower the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to waive provisions of certain laws and regulations and give maximum flexibility to healthcare providers to care for their patients.
- The declaration will provide HHS with critical authorities to waive:
- Certain laws to enable telehealth, remote doctors’ visits, and hospital check-ins
- Licensing requirements so doctors from other states can provide services in areas with the greatest need.
- Critical Access Hospital requirements to allow those hospitals to have more beds and longer lengths of stay
- The requirement of a 3-day hospital stays prior to admission to a nursing home.
- Rules hindering hospitals’ ability to bring additional physicians on board or obtain needed office space.
- Restrictions on where hospitals can care for patients.
- The Administration will be working to eliminate every obstacle possible to ensure healthcare providers can deliver Americans the care they need.
- President Trump is mobilizing resources across the Federal Government to accelerate testing and expand access for more Americans.
- The President wants to make sure that those who need a test can get a test safely, quickly, and conveniently.
- The Administration is working with the private sector to open up drive-through testing collection sites in critical areas impacted by the coronavirus.
- The Administration is working with Google to develop a website Americans can go to determine whether a test is needed and, if so, facilitate testing at a nearby location.
- The Food and Drug Administration is issuing emergency authorization for new commercial coronavirus tests that will help significantly expand testing across the country.
- One new test produced by Roche has already been authorized and authorization is coming for another test very shortly.
- Up to 2 million additional tests are expected to be available next week thanks to these efforts.
- President Trump and his Administration are working to provide maximum flexibility for States to approve labs for coronavirus testing.
- HHS recently announced it is providing funding to help accelerate the development of two rapid diagnostic tests.
- The Administration has designated Assistant Secretary for Health Brett Giroir to take the lead in coordinating testing efforts to ensure seamless access for patients, doctors, and hospitals.
- The Administration continues to cut red tape that restricted who qualifies for testing.
CDC Health Alert Network: Updated Guidance on Evaluating and Testing Persons for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Summary
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to closely monitor and respond to the COVID-19 outbreak caused by the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2.
This CDC Health Alert Network (HAN) Update highlights guidance and recommendations for evaluating and identifying patients who should be tested for COVID-19 that were shared on March 4, 2020, on the CDC COVID-19 website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/hcp/clinical-criteria.html.
It supersedes the guidance and recommendations provided in CDC’s HAN 428 distributed on February 28, 2020.
The outbreak that began in Wuhan, Hubei Province, has now spread throughout China and to 101 other countries and territories, including the United States.
As of March 8, 2020, there were more than 105,000 cases reported globally. In addition to sustained transmission in China, there is now community spread in several additional countries. CDC has updated travel guidance to reflect this information (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html).
As of March 7, 2020, there were a total of 213 cases within the United States, of which 49 were among repatriated persons from high-risk settings.
Among the other 164 cases that were diagnosed in the United States, 36 were among persons with a history of recent travel in China or other affected areas, and 18 were persons in close contact with another confirmed COVID-19 patient (i.e., person-to-person spread); 110 cases are currently under investigation.
During the week of February 23, the community spread of the virus that causes COVID-19 was reported in California in two places, Oregon, and Washington.
Community spread in Washington resulted in the first reported case of COVID-19 in a healthcare worker, and the first outbreak in a long-term care facility. The first death due to COVID-19 was also reported from Washington; there have now been 11 reported deaths in the U.S. from COVID-19.
As of March 7, 2020, COVID-19 cases had been reported by 19 states. CDC will continue to work with state and local health departments, clinicians, and laboratorians to identify and respond to other cases of COVID-19, especially those with an unknown source of infection, to limit further community spread.
The most recent update describing COVID-19 in the United States can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-in-us.html.
Recognizing persons who are at risk for COVID-19 is a critical component of identifying cases and preventing further transmission.
With expanding the spread of COVID-19, additional areas of geographic risk are being identified, and the criteria for considering testing are being updated to reflect this spread.
In addition, with increasing access to testing, the criteria for testing for COVID-19 have been expanded to include more symptomatic persons, even in the absence of travel history to affected areas or known exposure to another case, to quickly detect and respond to community spread of the virus in the United States.
Criteria to Guide Evaluation and Laboratory Testing for COVID-19
Clinicians should work with their local and state health departments to coordinate testing through public health laboratories. In addition, COVID-19 diagnostic testing, authorized by the Food and Drug Administration under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), is becoming available in clinical laboratories.
This additional testing capacity will allow clinicians to consider COVID-19 testing for a wider group of symptomatic patients.
Clinicians should use their judgment to determine if a patient has signs and symptoms compatible with COVID-19 and whether the patient should be tested.
Most patients with confirmed COVID-19 have developed fever1 and/or symptoms of acute respiratory illness (e.g., cough, difficulty breathing).
Priorities for testing may include:
- Hospitalized patients who have signs and symptoms compatible with COVID-19 in order to inform decisions related to infection control.
- Other symptomatic individuals such as, older adults (age ? 65 years) and individuals with chronic medical conditions and/or an immunocompromised state that may put them at higher risk for poor outcomes (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, receiving immunosuppressive medications, chronic lung disease, chronic kidney disease).
- Any persons including healthcare personnel2, who within 14 days of symptom onset had close contact3 with a suspect or laboratory-confirmed4 COVID-19 patient, or who have a history of travel from affected geographic areas5 (see below) within 14 days of their symptom onset.
There are epidemiologic factors that may also help guide decisions about COVID-19 testing. Documented COVID-19 infections in a jurisdiction and known community transmission may contribute to an epidemiologic risk assessment to inform testing decisions.
Clinicians are strongly encouraged to test for other causes of respiratory illness (e.g., influenza).
Mildly ill patients should be encouraged to stay home and contact their healthcare provider by phone for guidance about clinical management. Patients who have severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, should seek care immediately.
Older patients and individuals who have underlying medical conditions or are immunocompromised should contact their physician early in the course of even mild illness.
International Areas with Sustained (Ongoing) Transmission
Last updated March 8, 2020
(https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html)
- China: Level 3 Travel Health Notice (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/warning/novel-coronavirus-china)
- Iran: Level 3 Travel Health Notice (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/warning/coronavirus-iran)
- Italy: Level 3 Travel Health Notice (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/warning/coronavirus-italy)
- Japan: Level 2 Travel Health Notice (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/alert/coronavirus-japan)
- South Korea: Level 3 Travel Health Notice (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/warning/coronavirus-south-korea)
Recommendations for Reporting, Laboratory Testing, and Specimen Collection
Clinicians should immediately implement recommended infection prevention and control practices (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/infection-control/control-recommendations.html) if a patient is suspected of having COVID-19.
They should also notify infection control personnel at their healthcare facility and their state or local health department if it is suspected that a patient may have COVID-19.
State health departments that have identified a person suspected of having COVID-19 or a laboratory-confirmed case should complete a PUI and Case Report form through the processes identified on CDC’s Coronavirus Disease 2019 website (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/reporting-pui.html).
If specimens are sent to CDC for laboratory testing, state and local health departments can contact CDC’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at 770-488-7100 for assistance with obtaining, storing, and shipping, including after hours, on weekends, and holidays.
Guidance for the identification and management of potentially exposed contacts of a confirmed case of COVID-19 can be found in Interim US Guidance for Risk Assessment and Public Health Management of Persons with Potential Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Exposures: Geographic Risk and Contacts of Laboratory-confirmed Cases (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/risk-assessment.html).
Separate guidance for the management of potentially exposed contacts of a COVID-19 case who are healthcare personnel is provided in Interim U.S. Guidance for Risk Assessment and Public Health Management of Healthcare Personnel with Potential Exposure in a Healthcare Setting to Patients with Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-risk-assesment-hcp.html).
For initial diagnostic testing for COVID-19, CDC recommends collecting and testing upper respiratory tract specimens (nasopharyngeal AND oropharyngeal swabs).
CDC also recommends testing lower respiratory tract specimens, if available. For patients who develop a productive cough, sputum should be collected and tested for SARS-CoV-2. The induction of sputum is not recommended.
For patients for whom it is clinically indicated (e.g., those receiving invasive mechanical ventilation), a lower respiratory tract aspirate or bronchoalveolar lavage sample should be collected and tested as a lower respiratory tract specimen.
Specimens should be collected as soon as possible once a person has been identified for testing, regardless of the time of symptom onset.
See Interim Guidelines for Collecting, Handling, and Testing Clinical Specimens from Patients Under Investigation (PUIs) for COVID-19 (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/lab/guidelines-clinical-specimens.html) and Biosafety FAQs for handling and processing specimens from suspected cases and PUIs (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/lab/biosafety-faqs.html).
1Fever may be subjective or confirmed
2For healthcare personnel, testing may be considered if there has been exposure to a person with suspected COVID-19 without laboratory confirmation. Because of their often extensive and close contact with vulnerable patients in healthcare settings, even mild signs and symptoms (e.g., sore throat) of COVID-19 should be evaluated among potentially exposed healthcare personnel. Additional information is available in CDC’s Interim U.S. Guidance for Risk Assessment and Public Health Management of Healthcare Personnel with Potential Exposure in a Healthcare Setting to Patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-risk-assesment-hcp.html).
3Close contact is defined as—
- a) being within approximately 6 feet (2 meters) of a COVID-19 case for a prolonged period; close contact can occur while caring for, living with, visiting, or sharing a healthcare waiting area or room with a COVID-19 case
- – or –
- b) having direct contact with infectious secretions of a COVID-19 case (e.g., being coughed on)
If such contact occurs while not wearing recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., gowns, gloves, NIOSH-certified disposable N95 respirator, eye protection), criteria for PUI consideration are met. - Additional information is available in CDC’s updated Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Patients with Confirmed COVID-19 or Persons Under Investigation for COVID-19 in Healthcare Settings (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/infection-control/control-recommendations.html).
- Data to inform the definition of close contact are limited. Considerations when assessing close contact include the duration of exposure (e.g., longer exposure time likely increases exposure risk) and the clinical symptoms of the person with COVID-19 (e.g., coughing likely increases exposure risk as does exposure to a severely ill patient). Special consideration should be given to healthcare personnel exposed in healthcare settings as described in CDC’s Interim U.S. Guidance for Risk Assessment and Public Health Management of Healthcare Personnel with Potential Exposure in a Healthcare Setting to Patients with COVID-19 (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/guidance-risk-assesment-hcp.html).
4Documentation of laboratory-confirmation of COVID-19 may not be possible for travelers or persons caring for COVID-19 patients in other countries.
5Affected areas are defined as geographic regions where sustained community transmission has been identified. For a list of relevant affected areas, see Coronavirus Disease 2019 Information for Travel (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html).
Department of Homeland Security Outlines New Process for Americans Returning from Certain European Countries, China, and Iran
WASHINGTON – In order to help prevent the spread of travel-related cases of coronavirus in the United States, today the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Acting Secretary Chad F. Wolf issued a Notice of Arrival Restrictionsoutlining the process for American citizens, legal permanent residents, and their immediate families who are returning home after recently visiting certain European countries (listed below), China, and Iran.
Effective for flights taking off at 11:59 PM EDT on Friday, March 13th, Americans returning from all restricted countries will now be required to travel through the following 13 airports:
- Boston-Logan International Airport (BOS), Massachusetts
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Illinois
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas
- Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), Michigan
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Hawaii
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Georgia
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), California
- Miami International Airport (MIA), Florida
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO), California
- Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Washington
- Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD), Virginia
Upon arrival, travelers will proceed to standard customs processing. They will then continue to enhanced entry screening where the passenger will be asked about their medical history, current condition, and asked for contact information for local health authorities.
Passengers will then be given written guidance about COVID-19 and directed to proceed to their final destination, and immediately home-quarantine in accordance with CDC best practices.
“While the overall risk of serious infection from the coronavirus to the general public remains low at this time, the Trump administration is taking these aggressive measures to keep the risk low, requiring all Americans returning from affected areas in Europe to be funneled through 13 airports for screening upon their return to the U.S.,” said Acting Secretary Wolf. “To minimize disruptions to travelers, TSA, CBP, and air carriers are working to identify qualifying passengers before their scheduled flights. These passengers will be rerouted to one of the 13 airports by their airline at no cost to them.”
Wolf continued, “I understand this new process will be disruptive to some travelers, however, this action is needed to protect the general public from further exposure and spread of the coronavirus. Once back in the U.S. it is imperative that individuals honor self-quarantine directives to help protect their loved ones and communities.”
President Trump determined that the potential for widespread transmission of the coronavirus by infected individuals seeking to enter the United States threatens the security of the homeland.
Therefore, the Department is taking action in furtherance of the public health interests advanced by the March 11th presidential proclamation which suspends entry to nearly all foreign nationals who have been in certain European countries, China and Iran at any point during the 14 days prior to their scheduled travel to the U.S.
These European countries, known as the Schengen Area, include Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
This Presidential Proclamation does not apply to U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents, nor their family members under the age of 21, and other individuals who are identified in the proclamation. Nor does it apply to cargo and economic shipping.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
For more information on what Texans can do at home to prevent the spread of COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.
New Guidance for Infection Control and Prevention Concerning Coronavirus (COVID-19) for Hospice Agencies
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), Center for Clinical Standards and Quality/Quality, Safety and Oversight (QSO) has issued QSO-20-16-Hospice, Guidance for Infection Control and Prevention Concerning Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) by Hospice Agencies.
HHSC encourages hospice agencies to review this guidance as they review their infection control policies and practices in inpatient units, nursing facilities, assisted living, hospitals, and home settings. Based on the federal direction to ensure that agencies are prepared to respond to COVID-19, HHSC survey staff will begin conducting focused surveys of facilities with a history of infection control deficiencies.
Reliable Information Sources
Find up-to-date novel coronavirus information at dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus, and you can visit the CDC’s website at cdc.gov/coronavirus.
FDA and FTC Warn Seven Companies Selling Fraudulent Products that Claim to Treat or Prevent COVID-19
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued warning letters to seven companies for selling fraudulent COVID-19 products. These products are unapproved drugs that pose significant risks to patient health and violate federal law.
The FDA and FTC are taking this action as part of their response in protecting Americans during the global COVID-19 outbreak. The warning letters are the first to be issued by the FDA for unapproved products intended to prevent or treat “Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019” (COVID-19).
“The FDA considers the sale and promotion of fraudulent COVID-19 products to be a threat to public health. We have an aggressive surveillance program that routinely monitors online sources for health fraud products, especially during a significant public health issue such as this one,” said FDA Commissioner Stephen M. Hahn, M.D. “We understand consumers are concerned about the spread of COVID-19 and urge them to talk to their health care providers, as well as follow advice from other federal agencies about how to prevent the spread of this illness. We will continue to aggressively pursue those that place the public health at risk and hold bad actors accountable.”
“There already is a high level of anxiety over the potential spread of coronavirus,” said FTC Chairman Joe Simons. “What we don’t need in this situation are companies preying on consumers by promoting products with fraudulent prevention and treatment claims. These warning letters are just the first step. We’re prepared to take enforcement actions against companies that continue to market this type of scam.”
The FDA is particularly concerned that products that claim to cure, treat or prevent serious diseases like COVID-19 may cause consumers to delay or stop appropriate medical treatment, leading to serious and life-threatening harm.
The FDA and FTC jointly issued warning letters to Vital Silver, Quinessence Aromatherapy Ltd., Xephyr, LLC doing business as N-Ergetics, GuruNanda, LLC, Vivify Holistic Clinic, Herbal Amy LLC, and The Jim Bakker Show.
The products cited in these warning letters are teas, essential oils, tinctures, and colloidal silver.
The FDA has previously warned that colloidal silver is not safe or effective for treating any disease or condition. The FDA and FTC requested companies respond in 48 hours describing the specific steps they have taken to correct the violations.
Companies that sell products that fraudulently claim to prevent, treat or cure COVID-19 may be subject to legal action, including but not limited to seizure or injunction.
There are currently no vaccines or drugs approved to treat or prevent COVID-19. Although there are investigational COVID-19 vaccines and treatments under development, these investigational products are in the early stages of product development and have not yet been fully tested for safety or effectiveness.
In addition to following up with companies that fail to make adequate corrections, the FDA and FTC will continue to monitor social media, online marketplaces, and incoming complaints to help ensure that the companies do not continue to sell fraudulent products under a different company name or on another website.
An FDA cross-agency task force has been established and dedicated to closely monitor for fraudulent products related to COVID-19. The task force has already reached out to major retailers to ask for their help in monitoring their online marketplaces for fraudulent products claiming to combat coronavirus and other pathogens.
The task force has already worked with major retailers and online marketplaces to remove more than three dozen listings of fraudulent COVID-19 products. Several have already agreed to monitor their marketplaces for COVID-19 claims.
The FDA reminds consumers to be cautious of websites and stores selling products that claim to prevent, mitigate, treat, diagnose or cure COVID-19. Fraudulent COVID-19 products may come in many varieties, including dietary supplements and other foods, as well as products purporting to be drugs, medical devices or vaccines.
Products that claim to cure, mitigate, treat, diagnose or prevent disease, but are not proven safe and effective for those purposes, defraud consumers of money and can place consumers at risk for serious harm.
Using these products may lead to delays in getting proper diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19 and other potentially serious diseases and conditions.
The FDA encourages health care professionals and consumers to report adverse events or quality problems experienced with the use of COVID-19 products to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program.
The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices.
The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.
Governor Abbott Names Phil Wilson Acting Executive Commissioner Of Texas Health And Human Services
AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott today announced that Phil Wilson has been named Acting Executive Commissioner for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Wilson currently serves as head of the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) and will assume the role with HHSC immediately.
“Phil is an effective leader who brings a wealth of experience in state government and service to this role,” said Governor Abbott. “I am confident in Phil’s ability to lead this agency and ensure that the department effectively serves the people of Texas. He will be a valuable asset to the agency, especially as HHSC continues to play an integral role in the state’s response to COVID-19. I look forward to working alongside Phil as we ensure the health and safety of all Texans.”
Prior to his work with LCRA, Wilson served as Executive Director of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Previously, Wilson served as Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and as a corporate officer for Luminant, Texas’ largest electric generation company.
Wilson In 2007, then-Governor Rick Perry appointed Wilson as Texas’ 106th Secretary of State. Wilson also served as chair of the Governor’s Competitiveness Council and on the Texas Border Security Council.
Wilson previously served as the chair of the Board of Directors of the Austin Chamber of Commerce and as the chair of the chamber’s Opportunity Austin initiative, in addition to having served on the chamber’s executive committee.
Wilson has a Master of Business Administration from Southern Methodist University and a bachelor’s degree from Hardin-Simmons University.
Texas AG Paxton Warns Texans of Scammers Taking Advantage of Coronavirus Emergency
AUSTIN – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton today cautions Texans to be aware of scams in light of the statewide Coronavirus disaster declaration announced earlier today by Governor Abbott.
“Situations like this usually bring the best of our communities to the forefront with cooperation, aid, and compassion. Unfortunately, some criminals take advantage of troubling circumstances to steal from hard-working Texans,” said Attorney General Paxton. “As communities prepare to prevent the spread of Coronavirus and care for those in need, my office will work diligently to stop the scams perpetrated by those who look to take advantage of our citizens.”
In addition to price gouging and deceptive trade practices, cyber scams have been reported. Cyber actors may send emails with dangerous attachments or fraudulent website links intended to deceive citizens into revealing sensitive information or donating to false charities.
Any social media posts or email with a Coronavirus (COVID-19) subject line, attachment or hyperlink should be treated with caution.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued these precautions:
- Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited emails and be wary of email attachments.
- Use trusted sources – such as legitimate, government websites – for up-to-date, fact-based information about COVID-19.
- Do not reveal personal or financial information in an email, and do not respond to email solicitations for this information.
- Verify a charity’s authenticity before making donations.
The CDC recommends these actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick;
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth;
- Stay home when you are sick;
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash;
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe; and
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Cornyn Announces Waiver to Allow Lunches for Low-Income Students to Continue During School Coronavirus Closures
AUSTIN –U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approved the Texas Department of Agriculture’s request for a waiver that would allow them to continue to serve no-cost meals to low-income students during school closures.
The waiver negates the National School Lunch Act requirement that schools serve foods in a group setting, which will help curb the spread of coronavirus through social distancing and ensure students continue to receive much-needed meals.
“Millions of young Texans are eligible for free lunch programs, and families across the state rely on schools to provide their children with nutritious meals each day,” said Sen. Cornyn. “While closing schools is critical to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus, I’m grateful to the Administration for realizing the toll these closures could take on some Texas children and families and ensuring access to school lunches will continue.”
Sonic Healthcare USA Announces Testing Availability for COVID-19
AUSTIN, Texas – This week, Sonic Healthcare USA’s network of clinical laboratories began testing for SARS-CoV-2 (Coronavirus or COVID-19).
Sonic Healthcare USA has worked closely with its scientific partners and medical and operational leadership to bring up testing to ensure timely availability for patients in all geographies served by our laboratories.
“We are closely monitoring capacity and are coordinating with our clinical laboratories to distribute testing that mitigates high demands from endemic regions and clusters in the United States,” said Jerry Hussong, MD, MBA, the Chief Executive Officer of Sonic Healthcare USA.
Sonic has taken comprehensive measures to expand testing capacity while maintaining high-quality testing and meeting required turnaround times. As a result, Sonic is bringing up multiple testing platforms and methodologies.
Dr. Hussong added, “In response to this public health emergency, Sonic Healthcare USA pledges to do its part and is actively monitoring the situation. Our commitment is to ensure testing is available as this pandemic evolves.”
The well-being of our patients and employees is our highest priority, and we continue to be committed to the medical communities we serve.
Sonic Healthcare USA is a subsidiary of Sonic Healthcare Limited, one of the world’s largest medical diagnostic companies, providing laboratory services to medical practitioners, hospitals and community health services, with operations in eight countries, on three continents and providing care to over 100 million patients each year.
Sonic Healthcare USA is a leading provider of state-of-the-art laboratory services and pathology practices throughout the USA with nine operating divisions and nearly eight thousand US-based employees.
Sonic Healthcare USA utilizes a federated business model that emphasizes medical leadership and community-based testing services to provide outstanding quality and service to the doctors and patients that they serve.
CMS Publishes First Set of COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for State Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Agencies
On Thursday, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is posting Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to the Medicaid.gov website to aid state Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) agencies in their response to the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
CMS is taking this action in its continuing efforts to protect the health and safety of providers and patients, including those who are covered by Medicaid and CHIP.
“The Trump Administration is actively working with governors to provide flexibility in Medicaid and CHIP programs, so states can respond effectively to this virus,” said CMS Administrator Seema Verma. “We are especially mindful of our beneficiaries with underlying health conditions that make them more vulnerable. CMS is doing everything in its power to help states eliminate any barriers or delays in their care.”
Last week, senior CMS leadership held a call with all state Medicaid agencies and has been working directly with impacted states and associations to provide guidance and answer questions about existing federal flexibilities.
CMS has invited states to submit questions to CMS through their state leads, which CMS has used to formulate this first set of FAQs.
The FAQs cover a range of topics and issues that reflect questions and concerns raised by state Medicaid and CHIP agencies.
The information highlights the resources available to states, such as the Disaster Preparedness Toolkit developed by CMS specifically for state Medicaid and CHIP agencies, to address a variety of policy and program topics related to eligibility and enrollment, benefits and cost-sharing, healthcare workforce, and telehealth.
As questions and issues continue to come into CMS, they will be addressed and answered, and added to these FAQs.
The COVID-19 FAQs for State Medicaid and CHIP agencies can be found here: https://www.medicaid.gov/state-resource-center/disaster-response-toolkit/covid19/index.html
These FAQs, and earlier CMS actions in response to the COVID-19 virus, are part of the ongoing White House Task Force efforts. To keep up with the important work CMS is doing in response to COVID-19, please visit the Current Emergencies Website.
Summary of CMS Public Health Action on COVID-19 to date
March 10, 2020: CMS issued guidance to home health agencies and dialysis facilities with actionable information for healthcare workers on screening, treatment, and transfer procedures to follow when interacting with patients in response to the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
March 10, 2020: CMS issued frequently asked questions to ensure State Survey Agencies and accrediting organizations charged with inspecting nursing homes and other health care facilities, understand that non-emergency survey inspection is suspended.
This shift in survey prioritization enables State Inspectors to address the spread of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19).
March 10, 2020: CMS issued guidance on Medicare Advantage (MA) and Part D health and prescription drug plans informing them of the flexibilities they have to provide healthcare coverage for testing, treatments, and prevention of 2019 Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19).
Leading insurance companies and their industry associations announced they will be treating COVID-19 diagnostic tests as covered benefits and will be waiving cost-sharing that would otherwise apply to the test.
March 10, 2020: CMS issued guidance on the range of facemasks that can be temporarily used based on recent changes to CDC and FDA facemask and respirator guidance in light of COVID-19 and supply demands.
These are steps the White House Task Force is taking to ensure maximum supply of facemasks and respirators are available that allow healthcare providers to safely treat patients without exposing themselves or others to COVID-19.
On March 9, 2020: CMS delivered detailed guidance on the screening, treatment, and transfer procedures healthcare workers must follow when interacting with patients to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in a hospice setting. CMS also issued additional guidance specific to nursing homes to help control and prevent the spread of the virus.
On March 9, 2020: CMS issued a fact sheet with additional guidance for healthcare providers and patients about the telehealth benefits in the agency’s Medicare program. Expanded use of virtual care, such as virtual check-ins, are important tools for keeping beneficiaries healthy while helping to contain the community spread of the COVID-19 virus.
On March 9, 2020: CMS published guidance to hospitals with emergency departments (EDs) on patient screening, treatment, and transfer requirements to prevent the spread of infectious disease and illness, including COVID-19.
Medicare-participating hospitals are to follow both CDC guidance for infection control and Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) requirements.
March 6, 2020: CMS issued frequently asked questions and answers (FAQs) for healthcare providers regarding Medicare payment for laboratory tests and other services related to the 2019-Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).
March 5, 2020: CMS issued a second Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) code for certain COVID-19 laboratory tests, in addition to three fact sheets about coverage and benefits for medical services related to COVID-19 for CMS programs.
https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-develops-additional-code-coronavirus-lab-tests
March 4, 2020: CMS issued a call to action to healthcare providers nationwide and offered important guidance to help State Survey Agencies and Accrediting Organizations prioritize their inspections of healthcare.
https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cms-announces-actions-address-spread-coronavirus
February 13, 2020: CMS issued a new HCPCS code for providers and laboratories to test patients for COVID-19.
February 6, 2020: CMS gave CLIA-certified laboratory information about how they can test for SARS-CoV-2.
February 6, 2020: CMS issued a memo to help the nation’s healthcare facilities take critical steps to prepare for COVID-19.
