New immunisation reference pages: COVID-19 vaccines
In 2020, the Australian Government entered into four Advance Purchase Agreements (APA) for the supply of COVID-19 vaccines, if they prove safe and effective. More than $3.3 billion has been invested through these agreements, putting Australia in a strong position to access safe and effective vaccines when they become available. In 2021, three of these vaccines are still active, with the 4th (University of Queensland) withdrawn from clinical trials. Our new reference pages detail information regarding the clinical trials of each vaccine candidate, interim data on their safety and efficacy, as well as other vaccine specific information.
To read more please refer to the links below:
- MVEC: University of Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine
- MVEC: Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
- MVEC: Novavax COVID-19 vaccine
New immunisation reference page: COVID-19 vaccine platforms
Multiple different vaccine technologies or 'platforms' are being trialled by the over 200 COVID-19 vaccine candidates currently in development in an effort to limit the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Our new reference page provides a summary of the different approaches, including the newer or 'novel' platforms, and highlights the COVID-19 vaccine candidates in the most advanced stages of clinical trials.
To learn more follow the link below:
MVEC: COVID-19 vaccine platforms
New immunisation reference page: Hypotonic-hyporesponsive episode (HHE)
A hypotonic-hyporesponsive episode (HHE) is the sudden onset of muscle limpness, reduced responsiveness or unresponsiveness, and pallor or cyanosis occurring after vaccination in early childhood. The episode usually occurs within 48 hours of vaccination and resolves spontaneously without treatment. Our new reference page describes HHE, its incidence and its impact on future vaccination.
To read more please follow the link below:
MVEC: Hypotonic-hyporesponsive episode (HHE)
New immunisation reference page: Provisional registration of COVID-19 vaccine(s) in Australia
There is lots of interest nationally and internationally regarding the process for regulation of COVID-19 vaccines and concerns that things may be moving ‘too fast’ and steps may be missed. There is also some confusion regarding how these vaccine regulatory processes may vary between countries. Our new reference page outlines the role of the regulatory bodies in Australia in ensuring that any vaccine(s) meets safety and efficacy requirements, what the Australian provisional registration pathway looks like, and how this differs from the vaccine approval processes being used in the USA and Europe.
To read more please refer to:
MVEC: Provisional registration of COVID-19 vaccine(s) in Australia
New immunisation reference page: Yellow fever
Yellow fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitos. It occurs in the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, the Caribbean and Central/South America. Vaccination against yellow fever is a requirement for travel to and from certain countries. For more information, including how to access a yellow fever vaccination, please view our reference page below:
New immunisation reference page: The Royal Children's Hospital COVID-19 follow-up clinic
Our new reference page provides details on the COVID-19 follow-up clinic at The Royal Children's Hospital, which aims to provide support, acute care and long-term follow-up to COVID-19 positive children and their families. For further information, including how to refer children to the service, please follow the link below:
MVEC: The Royal Children's Hospital COVID-19 follow-up clinic
New immunisation reference page: Identifying AEFI in diverse skin colour
The assessment of skin for clinical signs and symptoms is important when identifying adverse events following immunisation (AEFI). Since most dermatological assessment guidelines commonly refer to the presentation of symptoms in patients with light skin tones, the identification of AEFI in a timely manner in diverse skin colours can be challenging for immunisation providers.
Our new reference page details how symptoms such as pallor, cyanosis, erythema and urticaria may appear in diverse skin colours and discusses alternate methods of recognition. For more information please follow the link below:
MVEC: Identifying AEFI in diverse skin colour
New immunisation reference page: Injection site nodules
Injection site nodules are a rare but known adverse event following immunisation. They can occur following any vaccine and are most commonly asymptomatic and self resolving. Our new reference page describes what injection site nodules are and the implications on future immunisations.
To learn more follow the link below:
2020 influenza vaccines- it's not too late to get vaccinated
Influenza disease can occur at any time of year and vaccination is recommended for everyone over 6-months of age. Certain patient groups are eligible for funded influenza vaccines on the National Immunisation Program (NIP). It is also available to purchase for those who do not meet funding criteria.
For further information on influenza vaccination in 2020 please refer to the following resources:
Australian Government Department of Health: 2020 influenza vaccines- it's not too late to get vaccinated
MVEC: Influenza vaccine recommendations
MVEC: Influenza vaccine- Frequently asked questions
New immunisation reference page: Melbourne immunisation drive-through clinics
Staying up to date with scheduled and additional vaccinations, remains essential during the COVID-19 pandemic. Concerning results from the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) National Child Health Poll, indicate the impact that the pandemic has had on immunisation, with data showing 1 in 5 children have had those vaccinations delayed since the beginning of the pandemic.
Families are reminded that it is safe and recommended to attend local immunisation providers (GP or local council) for vaccinations, however drive-through clinics are also available at Monash Health in Clayton and the RCH in Parkville.
For more information please refer to the following:
MVEC: Melbourne immunisation drive-through clinics