Western Australians aged 16 and 17 are now able to book in to receive a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccination at State-run clinics, following today’s decision by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI).
This means that all Western Australians aged 16 and over can now receive a third dose, providing it has been three or more months since receiving their second dose.
This means a further 60,000 Western Australians are eligible to receive a third dose and coincides with the McGowan Government’s two-week third dose vaccination blitz from Monday, February 7.
The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) today recommended that people age 16 and 17 receive a third dose to further protect them against COVID-19.
ATAGI also advised people aged 16 to 17 who are severely immunocompromised and have received a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine as part of their primary course should also receive a fourth dose of the Pfizer vaccine when they become eligible – three months after receiving their third dose.
Western Australia’s double dose vaccination rate is now at 92.5 per cent for 12 years and over, while 40.4 per cent of over 16s have received a third dose.
The two week vaccination blitz will see up to an additional 40,000 appointments added at State-run clinics, boosting the weekly capacity of State-run clinics to around 100,000 doses.
State-run clinics have experienced growing demand for vaccinations in recent weeks. To spread demand and secure a vaccination, people are encouraged to make a book via VaccinateWA.
Vaccinations are also available at GPs and pharmacies, to find your nearest vaccination clinic visit the Roll up for WA website.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
“I encourage all Western Australians aged 16 and 17 to take up this opportunity to get a third dose.
“What we know is that a third dose significantly reduces the risk of serious illness or death related to COVID-19.
“With Omicron now spreading in our community, I strongly encourage all of those eligible to get a third dose as soon as possible.”
As stated by Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
“We know vaccination is the best protection against COVID-19, so I urge all Western Australians aged 16 and over to book in to receive your third dose.
“Western Australians have done a great job at getting their first and second doses and we must continue that momentum with our third doses.
“I encourage people to book in at our State-run vaccination clinics or at GPs, pharmacies, Aboriginal Medical Services and GP respiratory clinics.”
As stated by Vaccine Commander Gary Dreibergs:
“It’s pleasing that ATAGI’s latest advice for 16 and 17-year-olds comes just in time for our vaccination booster blitz, as they prepare for their most important years in school.
“This is a great opportunity for these teenagers to afford themselves the best possible protection against COVID-19, by taking advantage of the extra appointments being made available this month.”
