Dear Healthcare Partner:
As the national trade association representing the leading manufacturers of consumer healthcare products, including over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) is committed to working with our member companies to ensure consumers have access to the products they need.
As we head into the colder months, certain parts of the country are experiencing a rise in pediatric cases of influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID- 19 and other respiratory illnesses, which has triggered an increase in demand for select OTC pediatric medications.
As a result, parents may find it more difficult to locate the products they need from their usual pharmacy or retailer due to limited out-of-stocks.
CHPA remains in close contact with our member companies who are focused on safeguarding the U.S. supply by maximizing capacity to produce and direct product to where it is needed most.
CHPA understands that public messaging and media reports covering the increasing prevalence of sick children can cause parents and caregivers to “stock up” if a product shortage is perceived or feared. A “stock up” could eventually cause widespread supply shortages for U.S. consumers.
You are a trusted voice in the pediatric healthcare community, so we are asking for support from you and those in your network when speaking with parents and caregivers about the appropriate quantity of product needed to get them through this cough, cold, and flu season.
Below are a few messages that may help when communicating with parents and patients, keeping in mind however, that ultimately you are in the best position to assess a patient and/or family’s particular needs:
- While we are seeing increased consumer demand for pediatric pain products in certain markets with unseasonably high rates of RSV, flu, and other respiratory diseases in children, there is not an overall shortage of children’s cough, cold, fever-reducer, or pain reliever products in the United States.
- As your healthcare provider, it is my responsibility to encourage parents to do their part by helping to ensure product is available for all consumers in need of medicines, which includes responsible purchasing guidance.
- Remain vigilant and remember to continue practicing recommended flu prevention strategies to help protect yourself, your family, and prevent further spread of these viruses to others.
- Consider all self-care options and alternatives to aid comfort and relief, including non-pharmaceutical strategies such as cold compresses to provide comfort, certain drinks and refreshments to help replenish fluids and electrolytes, and rest and relaxation to minimize exertion and stress.
We share your commitment to addressing these public health challenges and are available to you and your team to work through any issues as they arise. Thank you for your support and we will keep you apprised of any new developments on our end.
Best regards,
Consumer Healthcare Products Association
