Panvax H1N1 2009 Junior pre-filled syringes
Cease using Panvax H1N1 2009 Junior pre-filled syringes as the vaccine has expired.
The Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Professor Jim Bishop has advised that stability testing by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Panvax H1N1 2009 Junior vaccine, for children between 6 months to < 3 years of age, has shown a decline in potency in the 0.25 ml pre-filled syringes. Therefore the vaccine should now be considered expired.
Quarantine your stock of Panvax H1N1 2009 Junior pre-filled syringes immediately.
To ensure the vaccine is no longer administered, quarantine your stock of Panvax H1N1 2009 Junior pre-filled syringes immediately. CSL is retrieving this stock and will contact you shortly. Safety of the vaccine is not affected.
The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has advised the CMO that revaccination of children who have already received 2 doses of Panvax H1N1 2009 Junior is not necessary. The potency of the vaccine administered to date is considered adequate to induce an immune response.
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) are also suitable for use. Panvax multi-dose vials and Vaxigrip and Influvac influenza vaccines are not affected.
ATAGI's full advice will be available shortly on www.healthemergency.gov.au and immunise.health.gov.au
Please circulate this information to your colleagues. Thank you for your support and assistance with immediately quarantining your stock of Panvax H1N1 2009 Junior pre-filled syringes.