The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved AstraZeneca’s submission to change the name of its COVID-19 vaccine to Vaxzeveria.
The change will mean that the name is now consistent with that used overseas, including in the European Union and Canada.
The TGA said the rebrand is expected to “alleviate confusion and further clarify that the vaccine produced by CSL and Seqirus in Melbourne is the same as that produced internationally”.
“This name change will also help facilitate international recognition for Australians who have been vaccinated with the AstraZeneca vaccine,” it said in a statement.
“Importantly, this is the only change to the vaccine. All other aspects, such as manufacturing and quality control, are unchanged and align with the way the vaccine is produced in other jurisdictions.”
The TGA estimates local supply of the Vaxzeveria-branded product will commence in late 2021.
“Once supply of the vaccine commences under the new name, the vaccine will no longer be supplied under the original name,” it said.
“Some stock with the original name may still be in use after the name change.”
The name change comes after it was reported that Aussies who opt for the AstraZeneca jab may be denied travel to Europe once international borders are reopened.
Featured image source: iStock/jetcityimage
