New immunisation reference page: Diphtheria
Diphtheria is a rare but potentially life-threatening acute illness. It is caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae and is characterised by a pseudo-membrane forming over the pharangeal area resulting in pain, inflammation, difficulty swallowing and a hoarse voice. In instances where the pseudo-membrane dislodges, the airway can become obstructed.
Our new reference page outlines the signs and symptoms of diphtheria, as well as the vaccines available for disease prevention.
To read more follow the link below:
MVEC: Diphtheria
ATAGI clinical guidance on Japanese encephalitis virus vaccines
ATAGI have released new guidance for healthcare providers regarding the administration of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) vaccines. These recommendations follow on from earlier advice from CDNA identifying the groups at highest risk of disease and who should be prioritised for vaccination.
The guidance includes:
- vaccine brand and dosing recommendations
- priority populations
- advice for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- booster doses
- co-administration with other vaccines
- common and expected side effects following vaccination
To read the ATAGI recommendations in full, please click on the link below:
ATAGI clinical guidance on Japanese encephalitis virus vaccines
For further information on JEV, including background on disease and common vaccine questions, please click on the link below:
MVEC: JEV
Updated immunisation reference page: Rotavirus
MVEC's Rotavirus immunisation reference page has been updated with further information on:
- rotavirus disease
- vaccine dosing schedules and age limits
- common and rarer side effects, as well as their management
- precautions and contraindications to vaccination.
To view the page in full, follow the link below:
Updated immunisation reference pages: Influenza and Influenza vaccine: frequently asked questions
MVEC’s influenza resources have been updated in line with ATAGI's advice on seasonal influenza vaccines in 2022. Information contained in these pages includes dosing and brand advice (including information on cell-based vaccines), co-administration of influenza vaccines with other vaccines, recommendations in pregnancy, immunosuppressed individuals and the elderly, as well as eligibility for funded doses.
Our FAQ’s provide answers to commonly asked questions relating to influenza vaccines and their administration.
For more information please follow the links below:
MVEC: Influenza
MVEC: Influenza vaccine: frequently asked questions
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