The Australian Government has today (17 June 2021) received updated advice from the expert vaccine body, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) about the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine.
Reportedly, ATAGI has updated its advice to recommend that the Pfizer vaccine be preferred for adults aged 59 and under.
The Government has said it fully accepts the advice from ATAGI and will move to ensure Australia’s vaccination program and advice to the community is adjusted accordingly.
While the ATAGI advice remains clear that the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine is highly effective in preventing severe disease caused by the virus, this updated advice received 17 June 2021, is based on new evidence demonstrating a higher risk for the very rare blood-clotting thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS) condition in the 50–59-year-old age group
According to a statement released by the office of the Hon. Greg Hunt MP, AstraZeneca remains recommended for those aged 60 and over based on the much higher risk of illness and death from Covid-19 in this age group, and the lower risk of this condition (TTS).
Reportedly, ATAGI also strongly recommends people of all ages who have had the first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine without serious adverse effects have their second dose of AstraZeneca.
It’s said that the Covid-19 vaccine rollout will continue but will be adjusted as the Government expands the number of access points for the Pfizer vaccine.
The updated medical advice is reportedly made with an abundance of caution and notes that the UK provides for AstraZeneca vaccines for those 40 and above, South Korea for 30 and above, and Germany has no restrictions.
The statement released today underscores the fact that the Government places safety above all else, as it has done throughout the pandemic, and will continue to follow the medical advice in protecting Australians.
For more information, visit: health.gov.au/news/atagi-statement-on-revised-recommendations-on-the-use-of-covid-19-vaccine-astrazeneca-17-june-2021
