Immunization Provider Memos and Communications

North Carolina is experiencing an increase in measles cases in the western part of the state. In light of this, we have attached an important memo from Dr. Zack Moore, State Epidemiologist. The memo outlines updated NC DHHS public health guidance on measles prevention, including recommendations for early MMR vaccination for infants in areas where transmission is occurring.

As we begin the 2026 calendar year, the North Carolina Immunization Program (NCIP) extends its sincere appreciation for your continued partnership and commitment to improving immunization outcomes across North Carolina. This communication provides important program and vaccine updates. Please read this message in its entirety to stay informed.

We want to provide you with a few updates on new respiratory health resources available to you. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is reporting an increase in flu activity and flu-related deaths. You can help North Carolinians defend themselves against serious illness from flu, COVID and RSV by sharing our new bilingual Respiratory Illness Communications Toolkit. We are also excited to excited to announce the launch of the new Respiratory Vaccine Dashboard.This interactive dashboard provides timely, transparent data on COVID-19, flu and RSV immunization coverage across North Carolina. Designed for use by both the public and professionals, the dashboard offers valuable insights to help monitor and respond to respiratory immunization trends.

Yesterday, on December 16, 2025, the acting CDC director signed off on the ACIP recommendation to move to shared clinical decision making for Hepatitis B vaccination in children whose mothers tested negative during pregnancy. At this time, no impacts to vaccine availability or coverage are anticipated for VFC providers.

Today the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted to recommend that parents discuss benefits and risks with a health care provider when deciding if or when to give the hepatitis B vaccine to infants born to mothers who are not known to be infected with hepatitis B, and suggested to administer the initial dose no earlier than two months of age if not given at birth.

The FluMist® Replacement Program provides a no-cost opportunity to replace unused, expiring VFC FluMist® doses. The goal is to help you maximize product usage opportunities. To take advantage of this program, you can contact the FluMist® Replacement Program for CDC by phone or by email.

This email serves as a follow-up reminder to complete the COVID-19 Vaccine Survey that was included in the November 12th, COVID-19 vaccine ordering communication. All providers should complete the survey, even if your facility is not currently offering COVID-19 vaccines.

The purpose of this email is to inform you that RSV immunization ordering is now available for VFC enrolled North Carolina hospitals through NCIR. You no longer need to contact the Help Desk to place orders.