Novaxovid
Nuvaxovid adult vaccine
Medsafe has extended the drug product in-use duration for Nuvaxovid from 6 hours after first puncture to 12 hours for up to 10 dose withdrawals of the vaccine from the vial when stored between 2°C to 25°C.
- From 22 September people aged 12 and over can now receive a primary course of the Novavax (Nuvaxovid) COVID-19 vaccine (a primary course is generally 2 doses).
- The extension to those aged 12 years to 17 years (inclusive) is only for a primary course, not boosters. Novavax is only available as a booster for those aged 18 years and above.
- The Pfizer vaccine is the preferred vaccine being used in New Zealand; however, the addition of the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine provides additional choice for 12- to 17-year-olds who have yet to be vaccinated.
- The interval between doses of the primary course is a minimum interval of 3 weeks, but we recommend 8 weeks (same as for Pfizer).
- A prescription will still be required for a second primary dose of Novavax if the first dose was Pfizer. You can get a prescription at a vaccination clinic offering Novavax or prior to your appointment with your preferred GP. Visits to a GP for a Novavax prescription are free.
- Novavax is only available at select vaccination sites.
- Bookings can be made through BookMyVaccine. If you select Novavax, the site will show a list of vaccination centres where Novavax can be given.
Can I get a Novavax COVID-19 vaccine booster if I had a different vaccine as my primary dose?
Yes. Novavax is approved for use as a booster after a primary course for any of the COVID-19 vaccines available in New Zealand – Pfizer, AstraZeneca and Novavax for 18 years and over.
What age do people need to be to get a Novavax COVID-19 vaccine booster?
12-year-olds and above can get a Novavax COVID-19 vaccine booster.
How long do I have to wait after a primary course to get the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine booster?
You can get the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine booster six months after completion of the primary course (for most people, this is two doses).
Why is the Government offering Novavax COVID-19 vaccine as an option now?
It’s important that everyone who is eligible for a booster, gets a booster. However, we recognise that the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine booster isn’t suitable for everyone, so we want to be able to provide another option.
Do I need a prescription?
A prescription is not required for a Novavax booster if you are over 18 and it is at least six months since completing your primary course of any of the COVID-19 vaccines available in New Zealand –from Pfizer, AstraZeneca and Novavax.
How safe is the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine booster?
Novavax like all vaccines can cause side effects in some people. These are usually some normal side effects from any vaccine such as high temperature, sore arm and headache, see the Consumer Medicine Information https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/Consumers/CMI/n/Nuvaxovid.pdf
Can Novavax be used by pregnant people?
The Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine remains the preferred choice of vaccine for this group. If this vaccine is not suitable for you, please talk to your healthcare provider about alternatives.
How can I get a Novavax COVID-19 vaccine booster?
If your second dose was six months ago you can get your Novavax booster, which is offered at select vaccination centres. Bookings can be made using Bookmyvaccine.nz or call COVID Vaccination Healthline 0800 28 29 26 (8am - 8pm, 7 days a week).
I am eligible for a second booster – can I have Novavax?
Pfizer is recommended for anyone who is eligible for a second booster as it is effective/safe etc. The Ministry of Health will continue to monitor the research around Novavax as a second booster. You can discuss your situation with your healthcare provider, who can also utilise IMAC for clinical support.
How many people do you expect to get the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine booster?
It’s unclear at this stage how many people will request the Novavax booster.