AUSTRALIA'S chief medical officer, Professor Michael Kidd, has written to healthcare professionals ahead of the flu season to reinforce the importance of annual influenza vaccination in protecting individuals, families and communities, and the vital role of health professionals in encouraging uptake.
"Your recommendation to your patients is one of the most influential drivers of vaccination acceptance," Professor Kidd said, highlighting recent lows in vaccination rates (PD 07 May 2025).
"Research shows that a strong, confident endorsement from a trusted health professional makes a significant impact on patient decision-making," he added.
Professor Kidd noted that flu vaccines have been updated for 2026 with two new A strains, and National Immunisation Program (NIP) vaccines will be available to order from Apr 2026.
Flu Vaccine Manufacturer CSL Seqirus said its flu vaccines have been released by the TGA and private market vaccines are now available for clinics and pharmacies.
Dr Jules Bayliss, ANZ Vaccines Medical Director for CSL Seqirus says the role of manufacturers is to reliably supply effective vaccines early to help kickstart successful vaccination campaigns.
"We will be supporting doctors and pharmacists with vaccine stock that's ahead of schedule again this year, helping protect people and the health system from the devastating impacts of influenza," Dr Bayliss said.
"This season CSL Seqirus will be supplying cell-based and adjuvanted vaccines for the private market and as part of the NIP, meaning all Australians will have the potential to access influenza vaccines tailored to their needs."
Meanwhile in the EU, the European Medicines Agency drug advisory panel has recommended marketing authorisation for Moderna's mCOMBRIAX, the world's first combination flu and COVID mRNA vaccine.
Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel said the recommendation "represents an important milestone for respiratory virus vaccination and for Moderna".
"If approved, this would be Moderna's fourth marketed product in Europe," he said.
"Combination vaccines have the potential to simplify vaccination and support improved health outcomes [and] we appreciate the EMA's rigorous scientific review." KB
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