Australian Technical Advisory Group recommends COVID-19 booster for those over 75

The federal government’s immunization advisory body says the most vulnerable Australians should ensure they get another vaccine booster against Covid-19.

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (ATAGI) released new recommendations on Friday stating that all adults over the age of 75 should receive an additional dose of Covid-19 vaccine before 2023 if six months have passed since their last dose.

That means someone 75 or older, who is up to date on their Covid vaccinations, would receive a sixth vaccination: the first vaccine, plus five boosters since then.

ATAGI also recommends that people between the ages of 65 and 74, adults with severely compromised immune systems or those living in aged care facilities should at least consider getting another Covid booster.

“ATAGI continues to encourage all adults who were recommended a dose of vaccine against COVID-19 in February 2023 and who have not yet had one to receive a dose of vaccine as soon as possible,” the recommendation reads.

“For younger people or older adults without severe immune compromise who have already received a dose in 2023, no further doses are currently recommended.”

Federal Health Secretary Mark Butler also urged anyone with a backlog on their boosters to get the jab.

Federal Health Secretary Mark Butler has urged anyone behind on their boosters to get the shot (pictured)

“For other people who have been advised to buy a 2023 booster but haven’t had one yet, it’s not too late to come forward and get one,” Butler said.

“It is very important that people remember that Covid-19 is still among us, so I encourage people to continue to follow the vaccination advice from the experts at the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation.”

More information can be found at the Ministry of Health and Care for the Elderly website.