live varicella vaccine - medicine shortage information

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If you are having difficulty obtaining a medicine that has been prescribed to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist to discuss suitable options to continue your care.

More information about medicine shortages and how to access alternative medicines is available at the Medicine Shortages hub

Product details Supply Impact Dates Further Details
PRIORIX-TETRA vaccine 0.5mL powder for injection vial with diluent syringe
AUST R: 107286
Active ingredients:
live varicella vaccine
Measles virus
Mumps virus
Rubella virus

Dosage form:
Injection, powder for

Sponsor:
GlaxoSmithKline Australia Pty Ltd

Phone:
1800033109

From
03 Jul 2025
to
15 Jul 2025

Shortage status:
Anticipated

Availability:
Available

Reason:
Manufacturing

Management action:
This shortage is only applicable to the private market. There is no impact on the government or NIP supply.

VARIVAX REFRIGERATED varicella virus vaccine live powder for injection vial with prefilled diluent syringe
AUST R: 115008
Active ingredients:
live varicella vaccine

Dosage form:
Injection, powder for

Sponsor:
Merck Sharp & Dohme (Australia) Pty Ltd

Phone:
1800642865

From
30 Jun 2025
to
01 Jan 2026

Shortage status:
Anticipated

Availability:
Available

Reason:
Unexpected increase in demand due to other sponsors unable to supply

Management action:
Sponsor is closely controlling the supply.

VARILRIX HSA-FREE varicella vaccine live attenuated 0.5mL injection vial plus diluent syringe composite pack
AUST R: 234750
Active ingredients:
live varicella vaccine

Dosage form:
Injection, powder for

Sponsor:
GlaxoSmithKline Australia Pty Ltd

Phone:
1800033109

From
01 May 2025
to
31 Jul 2025

Shortage status:
Current

Availability:
Unavailable

Reason:
Unexpected increase in demand due to other sponsors unable to supply

Management action:
The sponsor is working to expedite the next shipment.