THE Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) advised the Government yesterday that adults 65 years and over, or those aged 18-64 who are severely immunocompromised, are eligible to receive a COVID-19 booster dose every six months.
All other adults are eligible to get a booster dose every 12 months.
Children aged five to 17 years who are severely immunocompromised can receive a single dose this year.
Federal Minister Mark Butler agreed that vaccination remains the most important measure to protect against the risk of severe disease from COVID-19.
"The vaccines are available every six months for older people and adults who are severely immunocompromised, and an annual vaccine dose for other adults," said Butler.
"People aged 75 years and over are the most vulnerable to severe disease and are strongly encouraged to take a booster dose if it has been more than six months from their last one."
The boosters can be "co-administered" with other vaccines, like the annual influenza vaccine.
COVID-19 vaccines continue to be available free of charge and are widely available through pharmacies and general practices.
Teenagers and children who are in good health do not need a booster dose in 2024, due to the low incidence of severe illness and high level of hybrid immunity among this group. JG
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