Health Minister Urges Australians to Stay Current with COVID Booster Shots
The booster is available for free in Australia every 12 months for adults, or every six months for those who are immunocompromised.
Federal Minister Mark Butler continues to urge Australians to get vaccinated, stating that the vaccine is the most crucial measure to safeguard against severe illnesses such as COVID-19.
The vaccine will remain free in Australia, with adults eligible for a dose every 12 months, while those who are immunocompromised or over 65 can receive it every six months.
The government has adopted recommendations from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) for the national 2024 vaccination program.
ATAGI suggests a COVID-19 vaccine dose every six months for adults over 75, and a booster every 12 months for individuals aged 65-74 or severely immunocompromised Australians.
According to ATAGI’s advice, Australians in these categories can also consider the vaccine every six months, based on a risk-benefit assessment.
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Additionally, all other adults may consider a COVID-19 vaccine every 12 months after a risk-benefit assessment. Children aged five to 18 are advised to consider the vaccine if they are severely immunocompromised.
The government stated that teenagers and healthy children do not require a booster dose in 2024 due to low severe illness rates and high levels of hybrid immunity.
Health Minister Butler highlighted that COVID-19 vaccines are readily available at general practices and pharmacies for free.
He emphasized that vaccination remains the key tool in protecting against severe COVID-19, with older adults and those with severe immunocompromise eligible for a dose every six months and other adults requiring an annual vaccine.
Individuals aged 75 and above, considered most vulnerable to severe disease, are strongly advised to get a booster if more than six months have passed since their last dose.
He noted that COVID-19 vaccines can be administered alongside other vaccines, such as the annual influenza vaccine.
US Health Officials Recommend Booster Shot for Those Over 65
Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States recommended a second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine for individuals over 65 if at least four months have elapsed since their last shot.
Dr. Mandy Cohen emphasized the importance of additional protection for those at higher risk due to their age.
Vaccine Mandate Struck Down in Queensland
The ruling did not address the transmissibility or efficacy of the vaccine but focused on the legality of mandates.
Former Deputy Chief Medical Officer Nick Coatsworth noted the potential for civil proceedings and damages against governments for human rights violations following this ruling.
He acknowledged the role of vaccine mandates in the past while highlighting the reconsideration of their basis prompted by this ruling.
