Important update (17 June 2021)
On 17 June 2021, the Australian Technical Advisory Group (ATAGI) released a statement advising that the Pfizer vaccine is preferred over the AstraZeneca vaccine for people aged under 60 years. For more information view the statement from ATAGI.
- In line with ATAGI’s recommendations, any person aged 60 years and over will continue to be offered the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine at state vaccination centres. All eligible people are encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible so they are protected against COVID-19.
- Any person aged 50-59 years who is currently booked to receive their first dose of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine between Thursday 17 June 2021 to Sunday 20 June 2021 will be offered the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine by state vaccination centres. Centres and health services will honour all existing appointments that have been made. Individuals will not be required to be rebook their appointments.
- People booked to receive their first dose of AstraZeneca from Monday 21 June in the 50-59 age group may be contacted by the Victorian Coronavirus Hotline (1800 675 398) or their health service to offer them a booking for Pfizer. This may mean their appointment is delayed for some weeks.
- People of any age without contraindications who have had their first dose of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine without any serious adverse effects can be given their second dose. This is safe and recommended by ATAGI.
- ATAGI advises that each person needs to make an informed decision, based on an understanding of the risks and benefits. Patient consent forms and consumer information sheets are available from the Australian Government Department of Health. Current versions have been deemed appropriate for use pending an updated version being supplied by the Australian Government Department of Health.