THE rollout of the long awaited Novavax protein subset COVID-19 vaccine is set to commence on 21 Feb, after the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) issued guidelines for its use this morning.
ATAGI has recommended that the vaccine be used as a two-dose primary course of COVID-19 vaccination in people aged 18 years and older, at least three weeks apart.
The group has advised that the Novavax shot is not currently recommended for use as a booster vaccine, however, it has said that severely immunocompromised patients who opt to be vaccinated with it should receive a third primary dose two months after their second jab.
Welcoming ATAGI's recommendations, Federal Health Minister, Greg Hunt, said the addition of the Novavax vaccine would add a new option for patients who have yet to be immunised.
"What happens from here is now that we've got the double green-light in Australia, stocks will be released, [and] provided to Australia, the Therapeutic Goods Administration will go through a detailed batch testing process, as this will be the first such shipment we have received," he said.
"It's a protein-based vaccine, and for some who may have had contra-indications or reactions with other vaccines, this will provide an additional opportunity for them, as well as those who for whatever reason have not taken up the program so far."
ATAGI has also recommended the use of the vaccine for pregnant and breastfeeding women, noting that while there was no safety data for these groups, "there are not theoretical safety concerns".
No announcement has been made regarding the role pharmacies will play in the rollout of the Novavax vaccine.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 24 Jan 22
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