Supplies of the Shingrix vaccine

The Australian Government has responded to unprecedented demand for the Shingrix vaccine, with over 487,000 doses administered within the initial three months of the program. As concerns arise over accessibility due to the surge in demand, officials assure the public that efforts are underway to ensure timely access for eligible Australians. With approximately half a million doses currently available nationwide and an additional 100,000 doses set for distribution in the coming fortnight, collaboration between federal, state, and territory governments, along with vaccine supplier GSK, aims to manage distribution equitably.

The recent transition from Zostavax to Shingrix under the National Immunisation Program has necessitated adjustments, but health authorities stress that vaccination remains a crucial preventive measure against shingles. Eligible individuals, including those over 65, First Nations people over 50, and immunocompromised individuals, are encouraged to engage with their local healthcare providers for scheduling.

More information is available on the Department of Health and Aged Care website.