Novavax COVID-19 vaccine to roll out in Australia from late February after ATAGI approval

Novavax vaccines will be rolled out in Australia from February 21, Health Minister Greg Hunt says.

Mr Hunt said the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation has green-lit the new COVID-19 vaccine, the fourth available in the country.

Novavax will be a two-dose course with a minimum three-week gap between first and second doses.

Mr Hunt said Australia will now receive its first shipment of the vaccine and the Therapeutic Goods Administration will go through a detailed batch testing process. Presuming the regulator deems it safe it will then be rolled out.

He said the protein-based vaccine expanded Australia’s COVID coverage.

“For some who may have had contraindications or reactions with regards to 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,” he said.

“But I do want to encourage everyone, unless there’s a contraindication, please continue to come forward and take the existing vaccines.”

ATAGI says the vaccine can be taken by those who have had COVID-19, while severely immunocompromised people should take three doses.