More than 95 per cent of people aged over 12 in NSW are fully vaccinated with two doses of a vaccine, which is pretty bloody impressive. But even though our double-jabbed rates are some of the highest in the world, it's now necessary for us will need to go under the needle again. In recent months, to reduce the threat of the Omicron strain, the WHO has recommended a third 'booster' dose to provide even better protection against severe illness, hospitalisation and death. And it just so happens that Australia is one of only a few countries in the world right now that is offering booster shots to all of its residents aged 18 and over who have had their second dose at least three months prior.
People who have had two doses will still be considered fully vaccinated, and boosters will not be a mandatory requirement in NSW, although the state’s chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant has now stated that for people who are immunocompromised, a third shot must be part of their ‘primary immunisation’, and that boosters are highly recommended for everyone eligible.
Early evidence from Pfizer and BioNTech, who have been conducting studies into the efficacy of the Pfizer vaccine in neutralising the Omicron variant, suggests that a third dose of the vaccine increased the presence of neutralising antibodies by 25-fold, compared to just two doses. You can read the full press release here.
But if you're still unclear on why a third dose is now being recommended, here's an easy-to-follow breakdown of the essential need-to-knows.
What is the COVID-19 booster shot and how is it different to the other vaccines we've already received?
In Australia, the Pfizer vaccine has been approved as a booster shot by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). If you've already had Pfizer as your first two doses, your booster shot will be exactly the same as what you've already received.
What if I've had AstraZeneca or Moderna? Can I get the Pfizer booster shot?
It is safe to have a different booster shot to your two primary doses. However, if you can't have the Pfizer shot for medical reasons, you can have AstraZeneca or Moderna as your booster instead.
Who is eligible for a booster shot?
Booster doses are currently available to everyone 16 years and over who have had both their primary doses of any COVID-19 vaccine at least three months ago. The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) is not currently recommending booster doses for people aged 12-16 or for those who have already had a third dose for medical reasons, such as people who are immunocompromised.
When and how can I get it?
You can book a booster dose if it has been three months or longer since your second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. The date of your second jab can be found on your digital vaccination certificate. To book a booster dose, use the COVID-19 Clinic Finder –which also has information on getting help from a translator, booking for someone else or accessible vaccination clinics.