Updated MVEC reference page: Nuvaxovid (Novavax) COVID-19 vaccine
We have updated our Nuvaxovid (Novavax) COVID-19 vaccine page to reflect the latest ATAGI recommendations. The Nuvaxovid (Novavax) COVID-19 vaccine has been provisionally approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for use in a primary course of vaccination in people aged 18 years and older.
Our reference page also includes links to the latest resources and information regarding the safety and efficacy of the Nuvaxovid (Novavax) COVID-19 vaccine.
To find out more information, please refer to our dedicated MVEC Nuvaxovid (Novavax) COVID-19 vaccine page in the link below.
Updated MVEC reference page: Nuvaxovid (Novavax) COVID-19 vaccine
New immunisation reference page: COVID-19: TGA recognised vaccines
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) have provided guidance on COVID-19 vaccines given internationally that are not currently registered for use within Australia. This assessment assists with confirming the vaccination status of incoming travellers who have been immunised overseas and is based on an evaluation of the current available evidence and is subject to change as new information arises.
Our new reference page discusses the advice provided by the TGA, including the COVID-19 vaccines currently registered/approved for use in Australia. It also provides recommendations based on the current advice and includes answers to commonly asked questions.
To read more follow the link below:
MVEC: COVID-19: TGA recognised vaccines
New immunisation reference page: COVID-19 vaccine compensation scheme
The No Fault COVID-19 Indemnity Scheme is a Commonwealth government funded initiative that has been introduced to allow Australians who have been significantly impacted by an adverse event following a COVID-19 vaccine to apply for financial assistance.
Our new reference page outlines the No Fault COVID-19 Indemnity Scheme, including which vaccines are covered under the scheme, and how to make a claim.
To read more, follow the link below:
MVEC: COVID-19 vaccine compensation scheme
Submitting a referral to VicSIS has changed
The Victorian Specialist Immunisation Services (VicSIS) network has launched a new eReferral system. This new centralised referral and triaging system will allow for a more timely review of adults and children who have experienced an adverse event following immunisation (AEFI) with a COVID-19 vaccine.
This new referral pathway replaces the previous practice of emailing written referrals through to individual clinics.
For more information and to access the new eReferral system, please click on the link below:
MVEC: Victorian Specialist Immunisation Services (VicSIS) eReferral system
New immunisation reference page: COVID-19 mandatory vaccination directions in Victoria
Due to the potential for high levels of disease transmission and an increased risk of severe disease in vulnerable groups, COVID-19 vaccination has been made mandatory for specific workplaces/industries within Victoria.
Our new reference page outlines the current COVID-19 Mandatory Vaccination Directions Order in place in Victoria, including an overview of the responsibilities for both employers and employees, as well as information regarding the medical exemptions for COVID-19 vaccines.
To read more follow the link below:
MVEC: COVID-19 mandatory vaccination directions in Victoria
New immunisation reference page: Neutropenia: Vaccine recommendations for children with chronic neutropenia
Children with neutropenia are at increased risk of bacterial and fungal infections and therefore preventing infections in this group is a priority in order to protect these children against vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs). However, this patient group is not addressed in The Australian Immunisation Handbook.
Our new reference page, Neutropenia: vaccine recommendations for children with chronic neutropenia discusses the recommendations for this group based on international guidelines and local consensus.
To read more follow the link below:
MVEC: New immunisation reference page: Neutropenia: Vaccine recommendations for children with chronic neutropenia
TGA Provisional Approval of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to include 12-17 years age group
On September 4 2021, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) granted provisional approval to Moderna Australia Pty Ltd for its COVID-19 vaccine—Spikevax (elasomeran) to include the 12-17 years age group. This decision follows the provisional approval granted by the TGA to Spikevax on 9 August 2021 for use in individuals aged 18 years and older.
To find out more information, please refer to our dedicated MVEC Moderna COVID-19 vaccination page in the link below:
MVEC Moderna COVID-19 vaccination page
New immunisation reference page: Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP)
Immune thrombocytopenia, also previously known as idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP), is an uncommon autoimmune condition in which the body’s own immune system attacks platelets (the cells found in the blood which normally help the blood to clot).
Our new reference page discusses the background of ITP, including presentation of the condition and the association between ITP and MMR vaccines. Our page also answers questions around ITP and COVID-19 vaccines, including whether or not COVID-19 vaccines should be administered to people with a history of ITP.
To read more follow the link below:
MVEC: Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP)
MVEC animation: Myocarditis, pericarditis and COVID-19 vaccines
MVEC have created a new animation to help explain myocarditis and pericarditis which have been reported in a small number of individuals who have received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines Comirnaty™ and Moderna.
To view the animation and to find out more information, please refer to our myocarditis, pericarditis following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines immunisation reference page:
MVEC animation: Myocarditis and pericarditis following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines
COVID-19 vaccine FAQs: women's health
We have expanded our COVID-19 vaccine FAQs to include a section specific to women's health.
To view commonly asked questions on COVID vaccines and planning pregnancy, pregnancy, breast-feeding and menstruation please please follow the link below:
MVEC: COVID-19 vaccine FAQs: women's health