Latest recommendation updates
ATAGI provided updated advice on COVID-19 booster vaccinations, including recommendation that the Novavax vaccine can be used as a booster in Australians aged 18 and over where an mRNA vaccine is not suitable.
Recent ATAGI considerations
On Wednesday 2 March 2022, ATAGI met to consider the latest developments relating to COVID-19 immunisation. As of 1 March 2022, over 54 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in Australia. ATAGI encourages anyone aged 16 years and over to receive a booster dose as soon as they are eligible.
COVID-19 Vaccine Claims Scheme
ATAGI received an update on the implementation of the COVID-19 vaccine claims scheme.
Evidence relating to second COVID-19 booster doses
ATAGI continues to monitor evidence on the long-term effectiveness of vaccine boosters, including emerging international data on:
- effectiveness
- waning of immunity
- potential need for second booster doses.
Upcoming ATAGI considerations
ATAGI will continue to review current and emerging evidence on COVID-19 booster doses over the coming weeks, including national coverage data, as part of broader considerations around potential need for subsequent doses, particularly coming into the winter months.
COVID-19 vaccine safety
The TGA Weekly Report provides a detailed breakdown of adverse events following immunisation.
Resources and recent statements
ATAGI recommends review of the following key resources:
- 2 March 2022: ATAGI updated advice on COVID-19 booster vaccinations
- 28 February 2022: ATAGI Clinical Guidance for COVID-19 vaccine providers
- 18 February 2022: ATAGI guidance on temporary medical exemptions for COVID-19 vaccines.
- 3 February 2022: ATAGI Statement on booster doses for adolescents 16 to 17 years
- 24 January 2022: ATAGI statement on the use of Novavax COVID-19 vaccine.
- 19 January 2022: Updated ATAGI recommendations on the use of a third primary dose of COVID-19 vaccine in individuals who are severely immunocompromised.
More information can be found on the Department of Health website, with resources for both providers and patients.