The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has recommended a fourth dose of COVID-19 for vulnerable Australians, including seniors.
People at higher risk – including those over 65, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over the age of 50, and residents of aged and disability care facilities – will be eligible for a fourth dose of vaccine four months after their initial booster (third dose).
“A booster is your best protection against the most severe impacts of COVID and may provide protection against long COVID.
“For this reason, the Australians considered most at risk should ideally receive their winter COVID-19 dose before winter. This new dose can be provided at the same time as the annual flu vaccine if it has been at least four months since an individual received their last booster,” said Health Minister Greg Hunt (pictured).
The Federal Department of Health is also funding 9.5 million flu shots through the National Immunisation Program for vulnerable groups including those aged 65 years and over and people with certain medical conditions.
Mr Hunt encouraged Australians to make appointments as soon as possible, with the free doses to roll out from 4 April.
“Influenza vaccination is particularly important this year. With the easing of international and domestic public health measures arising from the COVID-19 global pandemic, a resurgence of influenza is expected in 2022.
“The best protection this winter is to receive an influenza vaccine and be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, including any recommended booster doses,” he said.
Fourth doses administered at the same time as flu vaccines were floated by the Government earlier this month.
