Zostavax Immunisation Leads to Death
09 Mar 2017
It has been reported that an elderly man died in NSW due to fatal, widespread zoster virus infection following vaccination with Zostavax. He should not have been vaccinated due to significant underlying health conditions.
The Zostavax program for 70-79 year old patients was launched in November 2016. The vaccine is contra-indicated in patients who are immunocompromised. Zostavax is a live attenuated vaccine, and administration to patients who are immunocompromised can lead to disseminated disease and death.
If there is doubt about whether Zostavax is safe for a patient, defer vaccination and seek specialist advice. If Zostavax is given to an immunocompromised patient, urgently contact the treating specialist or infectious disease specialist for advice on use of antivirals.
Further information is available:
- National Centre for Immunisation Research & Surveillance Fact Sheet
- On-line version of the Australian Immunisation handbook.
This blog contains general information only. We recommend you contact your medical defence organisation or insurer when you require specific advice in relation to medico-legal matters. This blog is based on an actual event but details have been changed to protect the privacy of those involved.
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Dr Nick Coatsworth is an expert in health policy, public administration and a practising infectious diseases physician. He held a national role in the Australian response to COVID-19 as Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Australia, becoming one of the most recognised medical spokespeople during the pandemic. Nick engaged the Australian community through a variety of media platforms most notably as the spearhead of the national COVID-19 vaccination campaign. Dr Micheal Gannon, Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, sits down with Dr Nick Coatsworth to discuss Nick's medical career journey, and what insights and advice he has for junior doctors. MDA National would like to acknowledge the contributions of MDA National staff, Members, friends and colleagues in the production of the podcast and note that this work is copyright. Apart from any use permitted under applicable copyright law, you may not reproduce the content of this podcast without the permission of MDA National. This podcast contains generic information only, is intended to stimulate thought and discussion, and doesn’t account for requirements of any particular individual. The content may contain opinions which are not necessarily those of MDA National. We recommend that you always contact your indemnity provider when you require specific advice in relation to your insurance policy or medico-legal matters. MDA National Members need to contact us for specific medico-legal advice on freecall 1800 011 255 or email advice@mdanational.com.au. We may also refer you to other professional services.
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