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:

एमवीईसी: इंजेक्शन साइट नोड्यूल


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
एमवीईसी: इन्फ्लुएंजा वैक्सीन सिफारिशें
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


Zostavax safety advice: not to be administered to people with compromised immune function

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) have issued a reminder that Zostavax® vaccine should not be administered to people with compromised immune function. Vaccination in this patient group is contraindicated and can result in infection with the vaccine virus causing mild to severe complications (including death).

Further details on the alert can be seen here: TGA: Zostavax® vaccine

For more information on Zostavax® and access to the Zostavax® GP decision aid please review the MVEC pages below:

एमवीईसी: ज़ोस्टर
MVEC: Zoster vaccine (Zostavax®) FAQ's


New immunisation reference page: Foetal embryonic cells- utilised in vaccine development platforms

Foetal embryonic cell lines isolated in the early 1960's have been used to develop a number of various vaccines. As scientists work to produce an effective vaccine against SARS CoV-2 it is important to explore as many technologies as possible. Addressing ethical and religious concerns is an essential part of COVID-19 vaccine readiness planning. Our new reference page details the background behind the use of foetal embryonic cells and the role they play in the development of vaccines, the reasons why they are used, as well as addressing any religious and ethical implications.

To access our reference page follow the link to MVEC: Foetal embryonic cells- utilised in vaccine development platforms.


New immunisation reference page: Immunosuppression and vaccines

Having certain medical conditions or taking specific medications can lead to immunosuppression and the decreased ability to fight infections. For these patients, prevention of disease is critical. Our new reference page outlines additional vaccines to consider, and specific vaccines that may be contraindicated.

To learn more follow the link to एमवीईसी: इम्यूनोसप्रेशन और टीके 


New immunisation reference page: Breastfeeding and immunisations

Immunising breastfeeding mothers can not only protect the mother from vaccine preventable diseases but also provide passive immunity to the baby. Our new reference page details different vaccines and scenarios for consideration when immunising a mother who is breastfeeding.

To learn more follow the link to MVEC: Breastfeeding and immunisation


New immunisation reference page: Eczema and immunisations

Eczema or atopic dermatitis is a common skin condition affecting people of any ages. Whilst it is recognised that vaccines can cause a flare of eczema symptoms, there is no causal relationship identified between eczema and immunisations in the literature. 

For further information on eczema and immunisation please refer to our MVEC page यहाँ


New immunisation reference page: Vaccine development and safety

In an effort to promote confidence in the safety and efficacy of immunisation, MVEC has looked at the steps undertaken by vaccine candidates prior to being registered for use in vaccination programs. Post-licensure surveillance programs are also important for the early detection of any unexpected safety signals that may arise.

To learn more please visit our MVEC page Vaccine development and safety


New immunisation reference page: Live-attenuated vaccines in patients receiving regular red blood cell transfusions

Patients receiving regular red blood cell transfusions to treat chronic medical conditions such as transfusion dependent thalassaemia, sickle cell disease, inherited chronic haemolytic anaemias, or inherited bone marrow failure syndromes are often left unprotected from vaccine preventable diseases due to not meeting the required intervals between red blood cell transfusions. Evidence in this space is limited, however specialist advice suggests that immunisation of this patient group with live-attenuated vaccines is safe and recommended. As such, MVEC has created a new reference page outlining the process of immunisation for these patients. Please refer to एमवीईसी: नियमित लाल रक्त कोशिका संक्रमण प्राप्त करने वाले मरीजों में जीवित-क्षीण टीके अधिक जानकारी के लिए।