CDC Updates Masking Guidelines as Long COVID Added to ADA
The CDC recommends vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals wear masks in areas of high COVID-19 transmission while HHS adds long COVID to the list of qualifying disabilities under the ADA.
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By - This week’s policy update highlights the CDC’s new masking guidelines, triggered by the spread of the Delta variant. Meanwhile, long COVID was added to the list of qualifying disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and CMS urged states to raise immigrant awareness when they are eligible for Medicaid to ensure they are covered.
FDA Warns Company to Remove Unauthorized E-Cigarettes from Market
The FDA recently issued a warning letter to Visible Vapors LLC warning them to stop illegally marketing their electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) products. The company currently has over 15 million tobacco-related products listed with the FDA, but the ENDS product does not have authorization for marketing. The warning comes as a part of the FDA’s commitment to protect the marketing of tobacco products for the health of youth populations and the general public. READ MORE
Nationwide Challenge Aims to Reduce HIV Stigma, Disparities
HHS recently launched a nationwide competition to reduce HIV-related stigma and disparities. The HIV Challenge will work to improve prevention and treatment of the disease among minority populations. HHS will partner with several other departments—Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health, Office of Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS Policy, and Office of Minority Health—to find innovative approaches that will increase the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis medication, otherwise known as PrEP, and antiretroviral therapy or ART among populations. The challenge is open to the public and will award a total of $760,000 to 15 winners throughout three phases of competition. Submissions for phase one began July 26 and run through September 23. READ MORE
CMS, HHS Urge States to Promote Medicaid Benefits for Immigrants
CMS and HHS are asking states to ensure immigrants who are eligible for Medicaid benefits are aware of their eligibility. As of March 9, 2021, the 2019 Public Charge Final rule is no longer in effect or enforceable. Parameters for immigrant eligibility for Medicaid returned to the standards laid out prior to the 2019 change. This includes eligibility under CHIP for all immigrant children. READ MORE
CDC Updates Masking Guidelines
The CDC is now recommending fully vaccinated individuals wear a mask indoors if they live in an area of high transmission. The new guidelines come as the emergence of the Delta variant drove a drastic rise in cases in areas of the country with low vaccination rates. CDC also advises immunocompromised individuals or people at high risk of severe COVID-19 wear masks indoors. READ MORE
Long COVID Added as Disability Under the ADA
On the 31st anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS and DOJ added long COVID to the list of protected disabilities under the ADA. Some patients with COVID-19 experience long-lasting symptoms weeks or months after their initial diagnosis including shortness of breath, muscle aches, and brain fog. Under the new guidelines, these patients will be protected from discrimination. The guidelines also provide additional resources and best practices. READ MORE
