COVID-19 vaccine safety report – 05-10-2023
Summary
Vaccination against COVID-19 is the most effective way to reduce deaths and severe illness from infection. The protective benefits of vaccination far outweigh the potential risks. Read the latest statement from medicine regulators around the world confirming the good safety profile of COVID-19 vaccines.
Like all medicines, COVID-19 vaccines may cause some side effects. The most frequently reported include injection-site reactions (such as a sore arm) and more general symptoms, like headache, muscle pain, fever and chills. This reflects what was seen in the clinical trials.
The most up-to-date recommendations for use of the COVID-19 vaccines – external site are available from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI).
Reporting rates of adverse events following COVID-19 vaccination are very stable. More detail on vaccine safety in children, adolescents and adults following vaccination is available in a previous vaccine safety report.
Reporting rates of myocarditis and pericarditis (inflammation of the heart or membrane around the heart) following vaccination are very stable. We will continue to monitor and review these adverse effects and will communicate any updated safety advice if needed.
Myocarditis is reported in around 1-2 in every 100,000 people who receive Comirnaty (Pfizer), around 2 in every 100,000 of those who receive Spikevax (Moderna) and around 4 in every 100,000 people who receive Nuvaxovid (Novavax). Detailed information about our analysis of myocarditis and pericarditis following vaccination with an mRNA vaccine or Nuvaxovid (Novavax) is available in a previous vaccine safety report.
Similarly, our analyses of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) following the Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca) vaccine are available in a previous vaccine safety report. This vaccine is no longer available in Australia. … [read more]
