New Zoster vaccine (Zostavax®) FAQs reference page
SAEFVIC has updated its Zoster resources and developed a new frequently asked questions (FAQ) page for use by providers. The Zoster vaccine FAQs page provides answers to questions on the use of Zostavax® and can be used in conjunction with existing resources in the Zoster MVEC page.
Updated Meningococcal page
MVEC's Meningococcal disease and vaccines page has been updated. Please note, we have now combined the pages for all Meningococcal vaccines under the one Immunisation reference page.
http://www.mvec.vic.edu.au/immunisation-references/meningococcal-disease-and-vaccines/
Zostavax - GP decision aid
Zostavax® contains a live attenuated varicella-zoster virus, containing 14 times more virus than childhood varicella vaccines. Administration to people who are immunocompromised is associated with risk of disseminated disease from the vaccine virus. Our new GP decision aid be used to assist in the identification of patients who may be contraindicated for the shingles vaccine.
For further info including new resources, please refer to our MVEC: Zoster page.
Influenza vaccine recommendations for 2017
Flu season is now upon us! Please follow the link for the current influenza vaccine recommendations.
Influenza 2017 recommendations
Meningococcal disease
Meningococcal disease is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis. There are 13 known sub-types (A, B, C, W and Y). In 2016, the main serotypes causing disease in Australia are B and W with variations noted by state. Importantly, they are both potentially vaccine preventable.
We have recently added a resource page for Meningococcal disease and vaccines to provide further information.
MTHFR gene explained
A number of families, consumers and healthcare professionals have been asking MVEC staff about the MTHFR gene (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) and possible adverse events following immunisation [AEFI]. Please refer to our MVEC page for further information.
New Zoster (Shingles) Immunisation Program
From November 2016, Zostavax will be funded under the National Immunisation Program for persons aged 70 years, with catch-up for those aged 71–79 years also funded until October 2021.
For further information, including our new resources please refer to our MVEC page
Victorian immunisation schedule app
Vicvax is our new Victorian immunisation schedule app for smart phones. Please refer to the MVEC homepage for details
Allergy and immunisation reference page
For further information about allergies and the immunisation process please refer to our new reference page Allergy and immunisation
Needle phobia reference page
We have created a new immunisation reference page with information and resources to assist in the immunisation of those experiencing needle phobias. Please refer to our Needle Phobia page for further information.