AusVaxSafety monitoring monovalent Omicron XBB.1.5 variant COVID-19 vaccine safety

On 20 November 2023, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) issued recommendations for three new COVID-19 vaccines for use in Australia for primary and further doses:

• Pfizer monovalent Omicron XBB.1.5 – age 5 to <12 years formulation (light blue cap)
• Pfizer monovalent Omicron XBB.1.5 – age 12 years and over formulation (dark grey cap)
• Moderna monovalent Omicron XBB.1.5 – registered for use in individuals aged 12 years and over.

To coincide with the introduction of these vaccines, AusVaxSafety has commenced active monitoring of their safety and adverse event profiles.

To collect data, AusVaxSafety distributes a short online survey via SMS or email to individuals (or where appropriate, their parents or carers) who received their Omicron XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine at a participating AusVaxSafety site. The survey allows participants to report any adverse events they may have experienced in the days following vaccination. 

De-identified data from completed surveys are analysed and monitored by epidemiologists and vaccine experts to ensure that the vaccines are performing as safely and effectively as expected.

Omicron XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine safety data will be published on the AusVaxSafety website and updated monthly once enough data are collected to allow meaningful analysis.
 
Click here to view ATAGI’s recommendations on the use of XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccines