Latest recommendation updates
ATAGI have not published any updated advice or recommendations since 29 April 2022.
Recent ATAGI considerations
On Wednesday 4 May 2022, ATAGI met to consider the latest developments relating to COVID-19 immunisation. As of 4 May 2022, over 57 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in Australia.
ATAGI considered data on COVID-19 booster uptake and continued an examination of evidence relating to need for 4th (winter) doses of COVID-19 vaccine for at risk groups, including disability and those with certain co-morbidities.
Ongoing review of adverse events and safety information
The TGA Weekly Report provides a detailed breakdown of adverse events following immunisation, including Australian rates of myocarditis and pericarditis.
ATAGI note the TGA Weekly Report from 5 May 2022 acknowledged a number of reports of suspected myocarditis and/or pericarditis in people who have received the Nuvaxovid (Novavax) vaccine. After assessing these against a set of internationally accepted criteria, the TGA determined one case was likely to represent myocarditis and 10 were likely to represent pericarditis.
TGA reporting indicates that to 1 May 2022 about 127,500 doses of Novavax have been administered in Australia, with the TGA receiving 632 reports of suspected adverse events. To date, no safety signals have been identified for Novavax based on this limited number of reports.
ATAGI continue to meet regularly and work with the TGA to consider safety of COVID-19 vaccines.
Resources and recent statements
More information can be found in the following resources:
- 29 April 2022: Guidance on Myocarditis and Pericarditis after mRNA COVID-19 vaccines
- 29 April 2022: ATAGI Clinical Guidance for COVID-19 vaccine providers
- 8 April 2022: ATAGI statement on use of booster doses in adolescents aged 12-15 years
- 25 March 2022: ATAGI recommendations on a winter booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine
- 2 March 2022: ATAGI updated advice on COVID-19 booster vaccinations
More information can be found on the Department of Health website, with resources for both providers and patients.