Tasmanian Public Health Services have launched an investigation after it was discovered vaccines administered by a medical clinic in Hobart’s East over the last 20 years were incorrectly stored.
Patients who received vaccinations between July 2003 and 22 March 2023 at Dodges Ferry Medical Clinic are advised to seek advice ‘due to the lack of documented evidence of adherence to national storage guidelines during that period’.
An expert assessment by the Director of Public Health revealed the possibility of vaccines being exposed to temperatures that could compromise their efficacy in preventing diseases.
Director Dr Mark Veitch says while there is no immediate harm to those who received these vaccines, their effectiveness cannot be determined.
As a precautionary measure, patients are encouraged to consider having their vaccine doses repeated.
Public Health say efforts have been made to identify all potentially affected individuals, and letters notifying them are being sent out.
Patients who suspect they may be affected should consult their current General Practitioner for further guidance on revaccination based on their specific circumstances. Revaccination advice is also available from Public Health Nurse Immunisers through an online form at www.health.tas.gov.au/revaccination-advice.
Vaccines covered under the National Immunisation Program are potentially affected, including routine childhood vaccines and certain government-funded vaccines for teenagers, adults, and pregnant women.
However, vaccines such as influenza (flu) vaccines, COVID-19 vaccines, and those purchased from pharmacies with private prescriptions remain unaffected. Individuals who exclusively received these unaffected vaccines are not required to take any action.
Anyone with concerns is urged to contact the Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738.
