An "updated" Pfizer vaccine will be available to Kiwis next winter to combat newer strains of Covid-19.
Amid a new wave of coronavirus cases, Medsafe today approved an application from Pfizer for an "updated" Covid-19 vaccine for the XBB. 1.5 strain, Medsafe group manager Chris James said in release to media.
"The vaccine will be used to help reduce next year’s winter load on our hospitals," he said. "The series of changes we see in the Covid-19 virus means we need to continually reassess and update our response to it."
Pharmac – Te Pātaka Whaioranga has been working to secure a supply of the updated vaccines in time for next winter.
Pharmac director of pharmaceuticals, Geraldine MacGibbon, said securing stock is "a high priority" for the drug-buying agency.
"We’re working with the suppliers, Medsafe, and Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora, to ensure New Zealanders have access to the Covid-19 XBB.1.5 vaccine in time for people to protect themselves and their whānau ahead of winter," MacGibbon said.
She said there are currently "no changes to eligibility" for the updated vaccine when it becomes available.
Any changes to people's access will be considered after public consultations "to ensure we’re incorporating feedback from the healthcare sector and the community into our decision", MacGibbon said.
Further information on when the vaccine will be available will be shared on the Pharmac website in due course.
The current Covid-19 BA.4.5 booster vaccines remain available to the public, deputy director of public health Dr Harriette Carr said.
"People are encouraged to get a booster now, if due, as we are in the midst of a current Covid-19 wave. If you are due, don’t wait until next year," she said.
"It is important to get a booster now to protect yourself and your loved ones, especially with Covid cases currently on the rise."
Carr said people aged 65 and older; Māori and Pasifika aged 50 and older; those who are severely immunocompromised and are 12 years of age and older; pregnant people who have not had a previous booster, co-morbidities, or have no history of previous Covid-19 infection; residents at aged care facilities; and people who were recommended to receive a booster in April but have not yet done so have been recommended to get a booster.
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