CEPI partners with BioNet to expand variant-proof vaccine programme

As a core part of its $3.5 billion pandemic preparedness plan, CEPI (the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations) will work together with BioNet to support the researchers of a global multidisciplinary consortium as they establish preclinical and clinical proof of concept for a novel Coronavirus vaccine. The vaccine will employ multiple mRNA molecules that encode several SARS-CoV-2 target proteins. This groundbreaking research could provide broad protection against differentiated COVID-19 variants as well as enable the rapid development of broadly protective vaccines against other Betacoronaviruses.  

“Science has consistently delivered throughout the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Science delivered safe and effective vaccines in record time, weakening the link between COVID-19 infection and severe illness or death, in countries with sufficient access to these innovations” - Dr Richard Hatchett 

To read the full statement, follow the link below:
CEPI partners with BioNet to expand variant-proof vaccine programme


WHO: COVAX delivers its 1 billionth COVID-19 vaccine dose

On 15 January 2022, COVAX celebrated the distribution of their billionth dose of COVID-19 vaccine, with deliveries to 144 countries.  

Ongoing efforts between COVAX, global government systems, manufacturers and partners are still underway to ensure rapid vaccine distribution and increased uptake during outbreaks.  

To read the full news release, follow the link below:
WHO: COVAX delivers its 1 billionth COVID-19 vaccine dose


Sydney Morning Herald: Fourth COVID vaccine shot found to be highly effective

A preliminary study published by Israel’s Sheba medical centre found that a fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine administered to people 60 years and over, made them three times more resistant to serious illness and twice as resistant to infection than thrice-vaccinated people in the same age group.  

Moving forward, Pfizer’s chief executive Albert Bourla said annual COVID-19 vaccine boosters would be preferable to more frequent boosters

At this stage, Pfizer is nearly ready to file for approval for a redesigned vaccine that targets Omicron while still protecting against other variants.  

To read the full article, follow the link below: 

Fourth COVID vaccine shot found to be highly effective 


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


ATAGI Statement on the use of Novavax COVID-19 vaccine (Nuvaxovid)

Following two phase lll clinical trials conducted in the USA/Mexico and in the UK, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has granted provisional approval of the Novavvax COVID-19 vaccine in Australia. 

Novavax COVID-19 vaccine, also known as Nuvaxovid (Biocelect Pty Ltd/Novavax Inc) is a spike protein-based vaccine with each 0.5mL dose containing 5 micrograms of the of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and 50 micrograms of Matrix-M as an adjuvant.

Novavax COVID-19 vaccine demonstrated to be highly effective in preventing symptomatic COVID-19 disease in adults in a primary schedule. ATAGI continues to monitor the safety, efficacy and immunogenicity data of Novavax COVID-19 vaccine including in high-risk priority groups and will provide updated recommendations as required.  

To read the full ATAGI statement, follow the link below:
ATAGI Statement on the use of Novavax COVID-19 vaccine (Nuvaxovid) 


ABC: Should I mix or match my booster? Your COVID-19 vaccine questions answered

ATAGI recommends that everyone aged 18 years and over to receive a booster dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of which vaccine they received for their primary course.

With over 5 million people now triple jabbed, Australia’s COVID-19 booster rollout is well underway.

This article explores some of the clinical data and considerations regarding the COVID-19 boosters.

To read the full article, follow the link below.
Should I mix or match my booster? Your COVID-19 vaccine questions answered


WHO: 2021 has been tumultuous but we know how to end the pandemic and promote health for all in 2022

In 2021, the global health system faced significant challenges perpetuated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Proving that when health is at risk, everything is at risk. However, there have still been medical breakthroughs and progress including new COVID-19 treatments, the introduction of the world’s first malaria vaccine and the near eradication of polio disease. 

The year 2022 brings a hopeful glimpse to end the COVID-19 pandemic, through countries working together, pushing for greater vaccine equity to reach a 70% global vaccination rate.  

In this article, the WHO reflects on the challenges and triumphs of the global health system throughout 2021 and outlines some positive opportunities for the coming new year. 

To read the full article, follow the link below.  

2021 has been tumultuous but we know how to end the pandemic and promote health for all in 2022


CDC: COVID-19 Vaccine Safety in Children Aged 5-11 Years November 3 – December 19 2021

Following the administration of approximately 8 million Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine doses in children between the ages of 5 to 11 years, local and systemic reactions were closely monitored and assessed. The incoming data was reported to VAERS and v-safe, the national passive vaccine safety surveillance system, jointly managed by the CDC and FDA. During the span of 3 November to 19 December, 4,249 reports were submitted, of which 97% were for nonserious adverse events.

For the most recent clinical data regarding the safety and efficacy of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 5 to 11 years, read the full VAERS report.

COVID-19 Vaccine Safety in Children Aged 5-11 Years November 3 – December 19 2021 

 


European Commission authorises fifth safe and effective vaccine against COVID-19

Nuvaxovid, a COVID-19 vaccine developed by Novavax, has become the fifth COVID-19 vaccine authorised for use in the European Union (EU). Following rigorous safety, efficacy and quality testing by the European Medicines Agency (EMA), the European Commissions has granted a conditional marketing authorization (CMA) of the vaccine for its perceived benefits in providing protection against severe COVID-19 disease. 

 

To read the full statement, follow the link below: 

European Commission authorises fifth safe and effective vaccine against COVID-19

 

 


Pfizer and BioNTech provide update on ongoing studies of COVID-19 vaccine

Following a routine review examining the safety and efficacy of the Pfizer-BioNTech by the external Independent Data Monitoring Committee (DMC), data has demonstrated that whilst there were no safety concerns,  immunogenicity of a two dose primary course consisting of 3µg doses in the 6 to 24 month-old cohort was met with non-inferiority, but not in the 2 - 5 year old group.

The company has also announced that it will resume studies evaluating a third  3µg dose of COVID-19 vaccine in children 6 months to under 5 years of age in order to select the right dose to maximise the risk-benefit profile in this age group. 

For further information on this study and its findings, follow the link below:  

Pfizer and BioNTech provide update on ongoing studies of COVID-19 vaccine