Australia now has access to a Covid vaccination that fights both the original viral strain and the Omicron version.
Today, the Spikevax Bivalent Original/Omicron booster from Moderna was formally added to the Australian vaccination schedule.
The bivalent vaccination will protect against both the original Covid variation and the Omicron strain by inducing an immune response against two distinct viruses.
Those over 18 who have not had a third or fourth dose of the Covid vaccination are permitted to utilize the vaccine as a booster dose.
A Department of Health and Aged Care official said: “The Moderna bivalent vaccination will be incorporated into the current COVID-19 booster program and all locations participating in the COVID-19 vaccine roll-out program will have access to this vaccine in the coming weeks.”
“People who are due for a dose of COVID-19 are advised not to wait and to arrange an appointment as soon as possible, using whatever vaccination is available to them,” the statement reads.
the launch of the vaccine after Therapeutic Goods Administration’s preliminary authorisation for use in Australia.
It was suggested last month by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (ATAGI) that it be made accessible to those who are 18 years of age or older.
Along with the other licensed Covid-19 vaccinations, patients will soon have access to the Moderna bivalent booster, according to a statement from ATAGI.
The original Covid-19 vaccine (different brands) and the Moderna bivalent booster vaccination will continue to be offered in the foreseeable future. Any available Covid-19 booster vaccination may be given to eligible persons.
‘ATAGI advises that anybody who has not yet got a first or recommended second dose of Covid-19 booster, organise to obtain their booster shortly, using either the Moderna bivalent booster or an alternative original vaccine,’ reads the statement.