The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine, sometimes known as Nuvaxovid, is still included in Australia’s immunization schedule as of May 2025. Novavax, which is well-known for its protein-based formulation, provides a substitute for mRNA vaccines such as Moderna and Pfizer. Based on the most recent data from AusVaxSafety and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), this is a summary of the side effects that have been recorded in Australia.
Common Side Effects
Most individuals experience mild to moderate side effects that resolve within a few days. According to AusVaxSafety, the most frequently reported reactions include:AusVaxSafety+2Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)+2AusVaxSafety+2
- Fatigue
- Pain or tenderness at the injection site
- Headache
- Muscle aches (myalgia)
- Joint stiffness (arthralgia)heraldsun+1AusVaxSafety+1Verywell Health+1AusVaxSafety+1AusVaxSafety
These symptoms are consistent with those observed in clinical trials and are typical indicators of the body’s immune response to vaccination. Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)+2Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)+2Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)+2
Less Common but Notable Side Effects
While rare, some individuals have reported the following:
- Paraesthesia and Hypoaesthesia: Tingling or numbness sensations in the skin.
- Chest Pain and Dizziness: Occasionally reported and usually transient.Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)+5Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)+5Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)+5heraldsun+3AusVaxSafety+3heraldsun+3
These side effects have also been observed with other COVID-19 vaccines and are generally short-lived. Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)+1Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)+1
Rare but Serious Side Effects
The TGA has identified rare instances of myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the heart’s outer lining) following Novavax vaccination. As of October 2023, myocarditis has been reported in approximately 4 out of every 100,000 doses administered. Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
Pericarditis appears to be more prevalent in males aged 18–49, with an estimated rate of 27 cases per 100,000 doses. Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
Symptoms to watch for include:
- Persistent chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- PalpitationsMedsafe+1Verywell Health+1
Individuals experiencing these symptoms after vaccination should seek immediate medical attention.
Monitoring and Safety Measures
Australia employs robust systems to monitor vaccine safety:
- AusVaxSafety: An active surveillance system that collects real-time data on vaccine side effects through participant surveys.
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA): Continuously reviews and publishes safety reports, ensuring transparency and public awareness.
These systems have affirmed the short-term safety profile of Novavax, with most side effects being mild and transient.