Make sure correct batch numbers entered into AIR
The AMA is aware of incidents where incorrect influenza vaccine batch numbers have been entered into the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR). Please make sure that you are entering the correct batch number when recording vaccinations in the AIR.
This has been prompted by a recent incident where some 2020 influenza stock was reported to be found among 2021 influenza stock. The Department of Health investigated a range of circumstances that may have led to this, including checking data reported to AIR. This investigation concluded that there was no 2020 stock in state and territory vaccine warehouses, however there were a high number of vaccines with 2020 influenza batch numbers reported to the AIR as being administered this influenza season (2021).
Further investigation has found that the issue is likely due to incorrect batch number information being reported to the AIR. The Department has been advised that some clinical information software stores and/or auto-fills previously entered information, which can lead to data entry errors when this old information is being used and not confirmed to be current, prior to submission.
It is very important that practices check expiration dates of vaccines, dispose of out-of-date stock, and report accurate data to the AIR.
AMA members are aware that it is now mandatory under the Australian Immunisation Register Act 2015 for all vaccination providers to report all influenza vaccinations administered on or after 1 March 2021 to the AIR.
