by Jared Reed

Preliminary data suggest that the pandemic influenza vaccine is safe, the TGA reports this week, with the rate of adverse reactions being in line with previous flu vaccines.  

With over 3.75 million doses of the Panvax vaccine distributed in Australia since September, figures from the TGA show that 654 suspected adverse reactions have been reported so far.  

According to the TGA, the majority have been mild and common problems such as headache, nausea and diarrhoea and injection site reactions.  

It says there have been four cases of anaphylaxis associated with vaccination and says “the current observed rate of anaphylaxis is within the range expected for anaphylaxis post-immunisation.”  

“The occurrence of anaphylaxis and allergic reactions is not predictable and can occur in anyone regardless of whether they have a previous history of allergy or not. Anaphylaxis is a rare event but healthcare professionals and patients should be aware of its possible occurrence.”  

“Most of the side effects that have been reported are well recognised,” the TGA says.  

“The TGA's assessment and the advice of its expert committees is that Panvax is a safe, effective vaccine for prevention of the H1N1 influenza,” it concludes.