RD537 - 2017 Virginia Department of Health Report on the Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Advisory Council

  • Published: 2017
  • Author: Advisory Council on Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome
  • Enabling Authority: Code of Virginia - § 32.1-73.10

Executive Summary:

The Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) advisory council is established in the Code of Virginia [§ 32.1-73.9] to advise the Commissioner of Health on research, diagnosis, treatment and education relating to PANDAS and PANS. The advisory council is required to report to the Governor and General Assembly by December 1st of each year recommendations related to the following:

1. Practice guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of PANDAS and PANS
2. Mechanisms to increase clinical awareness and education
3. Outreach to educators and parents to increase awareness
4. Development of a network of volunteer experts

Council members have been appointed as outlined in the law. One advisory council meeting was held and efforts are underway to develop the three-year work plan to accomplish the goals of the council. This document summarizes the advisory council’s activities for 2017.