From 1 July 2023, Vaxelis® vaccine will be introduced to the National Immunisation Program (NIP) schedule. Please find below essential information outlining introduction of this new vaccine.
Key points
- Vaxelis® is used for primary vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, poliomyelitis and invasive infections caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (DTPa-hepB-IPV-Hib).
- Vaxelis® is being made available as an alternative hexavalent (6-in-1) DTPa-hepB-IPV-Hib NIP-funded vaccine to the currently listed Infanrix® hexa and not as a replacement vaccine.
- There is no preferential recommendation between the use of these two brands.
- The preparation of Vaxelis® and Infanrix® hexa differs.
- Prior to vaccination, immunisation providers should check a child’s immunisation record to determine the DTPa-hepB-IPV-Hib vaccine brand used in any previous primary doses given elsewhere.
- A primary series of DTPa-hepB-IPV-Hib vaccination should be given using the same vaccine brand where possible.
- The Australian Immunisation Handbook will be updated from 1 July 2023 to reflect vaccine recommendations for Vaxelis®.
- Providers should continue to order vaccine through the Onelink online platform using their login. The vaccine order templates will be updated when Vaxelis® is available to order.
Resources
Online resources are available for immunisation providers:
- Vaxelis - Factsheet for immunisation providers
- The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care website including information and resources will be updated to reflect this schedule change from 1 July 2023.