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
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
23 Sep 2025
to
28 Feb 2026

Shortage status:
Current

Availability:
Only available under NIP or government programs

Reason:
Unexpected increase in consumer demand

Management action:
The sponsor is working to expedite the next shipment.
Patients are advised to consult their healthcare professional to discuss treatment options.

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
26 Jun 2025
to
01 Jan 2026

Shortage status:
Current

Availability:
Limited Availability

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

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

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
08 Aug 2025
to
28 Oct 2025

Shortage status:
Resolved

Availability:
Available

Reason:
Manufacturing