Tag - Virus

Provider Alert!

Provider Alert! Chikungunya Virus Vaccine Is Now a Benefit of Texas Medicaid

Date: May 14, 2024 Attention: All Providers Effective Date: April 1, 2024 Call to action: Texas Children’s Health Plan (TCHP) would like to inform providers that effective for dates of service on or after April 1, 2024, the chikungunya virus vaccine (procedure code 90589) is now a benefit of Texas Medicaid for clients who are 19 years of age or older. Procedure code 90589 may be reimbursed for the following provider types and places of service: Place of ServiceProvider TypeOfficePhysicians, Physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical...

Zika Virus Resources

The clinical and epidemiologic information about Zika Virus is rapidly evolving. Below you will find a list of websites and resources with the most up-to-date information regarding the infection. Texas Department of State Health Services Webinar: The Department of State Health Services has prepared a recorded webinar on the Zika Virus Disease by Dr. John Hellerstedt, DSHS Commissioner. The presentation includes information relevant to Texas providers on Zika incidence, distribution of the disease, modes of transmission, strategies to prevent transmission, and symptoms. The...

Zika Virus and Pregnant Women

Everyone is talking about Zika! The virus is transmitted through infected mosquitos. Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, along with parts of South America, have documented transmission of the virus and pregnant women who live in or travel to these areas are at risk of infection. Infection during pregnancy may or may not be accompanied by symptoms and has been associated with microcephaly. No treatment is available at this time. The most important thing to remember is that our knowledge about several...

Mosquitoes: Safe repellant and protection

By: Dr. Lia C. Rodriguez, MD FAAP Medical Director, Texas Children’s Health Plan The recent Zika virus epidemic has increased awareness of mosquito born illnesses. Currently, the biggest risk of infection with Zika is for women who are pregnant or considering pregnancy and their partners. Nevertheless, mosquitos can also carry other illnesses and create discomfort. There are several ways we can advise families to protect themselves and their children from mosquito bites. Advising environmental control is one important way. Mosquitos breed in standing...