Health Minister Advocates for Maximizing Availability of COVID Vaccines in the Market
In light of Novavax withdrawing its application from TGA registration in Australia, Australian Health Minister Mark Butler remarked that Australia is keen on having as many COVID-19 vaccines available as possible.
During a discussion with Independent MP Monique Ryan, Dr. Ryan expressed concerns about vaccine accessibility and medicine shortages for her constituents, including Novavax and Shingrix vaccines.
Mark Butler mentioned that the original Novavax vaccine was approved a couple of years ago in Australia but had low uptake and was withdrawn from the market over a year ago as production ceased. He also noted that the Omicron version of the vaccine was under consideration by the TGA before Novavax withdrew its application.
Mr. Butler emphasized the importance of having multiple COVID vaccines on the market and encouraged Novavax to continue working with the TGA on their application.
Regarding the Shingrix vaccine for shingles prevention, Mr. Butler highlighted Australia’s comprehensive shingles vaccine program and the high uptake among older Australians. He mentioned efforts to address supply issues and ensure access to the vaccine.
Dr. Ryan also raised concerns about over 400 medications on the TGA medicine shortage list, including essential drugs like blood thinners and medications for common conditions like glaucoma and HRT.
Despite global supply challenges for essential medicines, Mr. Butler assured that the TGA works with sponsors, healthcare providers, and pharmacies to address shortages and provide alternative options when necessary.
Health Minister’s Global Engagement
During a meeting with the World Health Assembly in Geneva, Mr. Butler reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to the WHO pandemic agreement and called for increased efforts to address global health challenges.
While Australia supports the WHO pandemic agreement, some Australian politicians have expressed reservations about signing a global pandemic treaty, citing concerns about WHO’s approach during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The World Health Organisation announced commitments from its member countries to finalize negotiations on a global pandemic agreement within a year, either at the World Health Assembly in 2025 or a special session in 2024.
Federal Budget Allocation for Vaccines
As part of the federal budget, the government allocated significant funds to support ongoing access to vaccines in Australia, including continued funding for the national COVID-19 vaccine program and expanding eligibility for the Shingrix vaccine for shingles prevention.
Overall, the government has committed substantial resources to ensure access to a range of vaccines and address medicine shortages in the country.
