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Health

Pfizer COVID vaccine approved for use as a booster for 16 and 17-year-olds

Pfizer booster approved for 16 and 17-year-olds

The first booster shot for the under-18s has been approved, with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) giving the green light for Pfizer to be used in 16 and 17-year-olds.

But, as with all vaccines, the expert group on immunisation ATAGI now has to approve the booster for that age group and decide when they should be able to get it.

"That's the first green light of a double green-light process," Health Minister Greg Hunt said.

"The next step is for ATAGI to consider and determine the recommended use.

"But if they say yes, and we're looking forward to their advice within the course of the coming week if not earlier, then we will make those doses available immediately.

"They are the same doses as the adult regime."

The TGA said Pfizer was already being used as a booster for 16 and 17-year-olds in the United States, Israel and the United Kingdom.

At the moment, adults can choose from either the Pfizer or Moderna boosters, after both received final approval late last year.

Mr Hunt said two-thirds of Australians who were eligible for a booster shot had received one.

"We're seeing booster take-up at a faster daily rate than the highest daily rate for first or second doses," he added.

He said people who had already had COVID-19 should still get a booster after recovering.

From Monday, the number of people eligible for a booster will again expand, when the interval between second dose and booster shot shortens again to three months.

Last week Australia added a fourth vaccine to the national rollout, with Novavax receiving the final tick of approval from ATAGI.

I've had COVID, can I get it again?
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