VMS businesses are deemed essential in Department of Homeland Security guidance that provides as basis for orders by most states and localities across the US. During an AHPA webinar, attorney Trent Norris says the federal government prefers leaving business exemptions to shut-down decisions to the states.

Company expects clinical trials to begin by September and says first batches could be available for emergency use authorization in early 2021; J&J pledges vaccine will be available to public on not-for-profit basis.

The US FDA wants to expand the availability of surgical apparel – including gowns, hoods and examination gloves – for health care professionals to use for the duration of the COVID-19 public health crisis. That means the agency will “not object” to the use of gowns and gloves providing low-to-minimal protection, as long as they do not create an undue risk to patients or users.