Question Number: 318
PDR Number: SQ22-000695
Date Submitted: 21/11/2022
Department or Body: Department of Health
Not all countries have the same recommendations about COVID-19 vaccines. Each country makes its own determinations in relation to COVID-19 vaccine recommendations based on a range of factors, including: safety and efficacy information from a range of sources local epidemiology, including outbreaks, and assessed benefits of vaccinating certain cohorts. For instance, in February 2022 the United Kingdoms Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advised a one-off, non-urgent program to offer COVID-19 vaccination to all children aged 5-11 years old. Since 1 September 2022 the JCVI has recommended COVID-19 vaccination only for children in this age group with risk factors for severe disease. The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recommends a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine may be given to children aged 5-11 years with risk factors for severe disease. ATAGI recommends that a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine may offer additional protection, noting the overall risk of severe disease in this age group remains low.
