Vaccination after COVID-19 infection
Everyone in Australia should wait 6 months between a COVID-19 infection and their next recommended vaccine dose.
This is to optimise vaccine protection. The gap between infection and vaccination is likely to lead to a better immune response and result in longer protection from reinfection.
The next scheduled dose of COVID-19 vaccine should be given as soon as possible after 6 months. You should still have all the recommended doses for your age and health needs.
Read the latest advice from the Australian Technical Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) on COVID-19 booster doses.
Residential aged and disability care
Aged care and disability residents can receive an booster dose, from 6 months after a previous dose or 6 months after a confirmed COVID-19 infection.
COVID-19 and other vaccines
If you have had COVID-19, you do not need to defer other vaccinations – for example, your influenza vaccine. It is recommended you shouldn’t get any vaccine if you are acutely unwell (e.g., you have a fever).
Safety of COVID-19 vaccines after infection
There are no safety concerns with having a COVID-19 vaccine dose within 6 months of having COVID-19. However, a gap of 6 months between infection and vaccination is likely to lead to a better immune response and result in longer protection from reinfection
You may be vaccinated earlier than the recommended 6-month interval in exceptional circumstances, such as prior to starting an immunosuppressant, prior to overseas travel or if someone cannot reschedule vaccination easily (e.g outreach vaccination program).