Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine available for 12-15 year olds in priority groups
Following the TGA’s provisional registration of Pfizer for 12-15 year olds, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has recommended that the following groups aged 12-15 be prioritised for vaccination with Pfizer:
- children aged 12-15 with underlying medical conditions that increase their risk of severe COVID-19;
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 12-15; and
- all children aged 12-15 in remote communities, as part of broader community out-reach vaccination programs.
The Australian Government has accepted this recommendation and will formally implement it from 9 August 2021, including by updating the Eligibility Checker to allow this cohort to view vaccination clinics near them.
GPs can commence vaccinating patients in this cohort now if there is capacity and stock. ATAGI will provide further advice on the broader 12-15 year age group in coming months.
The ATAGI statement is available here: https://www.health.gov.au/news/atagi-statement-regarding-vaccination-of-adolescents-aged-12-15-years
GPs are reminded that pregnant women aged 16 years and over have now been prioritised and are now eligible for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination. Practices are also encouraged to prioritise aged care workers and people over 70 where possible.
