In COVID-19, Vaccination

COVID-19 booster shots available from 5-6 months after your 2nd shot

In light of the recent emergence of the Omicron variant of COVID 19, ATAGI was asked to review the Australian COVID-19 vaccination program to decide if there was any benefit in a 3rd boosting shot earlier than 6 months. The ATAGI has released a statement on the emergence of a new SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) variant of concern, the Omicron variant, with a summary of the recommendations noted below.

At this stage, there is no evidence to suggest that earlier booster doses, before six months after the second primary course dose, will augment protection against the Omicron variant. ATAGI will continue to closely monitor the epidemiology and emerging data on the likely impact of vaccination on this variant and update recommendations shortly.

More information is available on the Department of Health website.

Appropriate dose intervals

A boosting dose is available to anyone in Australia aged 18 years and over who has completed their primary course of vaccination at least six months ago. This has not changed with the emergence of the Omicron variant.

The ATAGI has advised that in special circumstances, the six-month interval may be shortened to five (5) months when needed for logistical reasons.

Vaccination providers may choose to administer the dose a few weeks earlier than the six-month interval for logistical reasons, for example:

  • for patients with a greater risk of severe COVID-19 in outbreak settings;
  • if an individual is travelling overseas and will be away when the 6 months mark would have occured; or
  • in outreach vaccination programs where access is limited.

Providers should use their clinical judgement to determine whether it is appropriate to administer the dose early. It should be noted that there are very limited data on benefit for boosters given prior to 20 weeks after completion of the primary course, and the duration of protection following boosters is not yet known.

 

Making a booking

Making a booking is simple and can be done online using the BOOK NOW button on top of this page or by calling 02 9817 2080. Appointments can be accommodated within a few days and there is no need to make appointments months in advance. There is no waiting list.

As usual, vaccination will occur at our vaccination clinic on level 1 which is accessible by the internal lift or outdoor stairs. Please follow the signs.

 

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