ATAGI advice - Vaccine Update!

Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation, updated advice on the use of pandemic and seasonal influenza vaccines in children <10 years of age This document replaces the ATAGI advice document 'Use of pandemic and seasonal influenza vaccines in children <10 years of age' published in March 2010. To view the full document click HERE

 Summary of recommendations

•  From 26 August 2010, Panvax® Junior 0.25mL pre-filled syringes will no longer be available for use. The manufacturer has undertaken a voluntary withdrawal of remaining stock because of a reduction in vaccine antigen potency over time, related to a known issue with low dose monovalent H1N1 vaccines. This withdrawal is not related to any safety issues.

 

• Revaccination of children who have already received doses of Panvax® Junior is not necessary.

 

• All influenza vaccines previously administered are considered to have adequate potency to induce an immune response.

 

• Currently, all other influenza vaccines, including Panvax® multi-dose vials and seasonal influenza vaccines continue to meet potency specifications.

 

• Children who have received two doses of Panvax® Junior do not require further influenza vaccination during the 2010 influenza season unless parents wish their children to be protected against influenza H3N2 and influenza B are available for use.

 

• If a child aged ≥6 months to <3 years of age is due to receive a second dose of H1N1 containing vaccine, this can be provided by using the age appropriate dose (0.25mL) obtained from a Panvax® multi-dose vial.  Alternatively, the 2010 seasonal influenza vaccines (Vaxigrip® and Influvac®)

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