The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) advises that a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine is now preferred over original (ancestral) vaccines for the primary course of vaccination for people aged 12 years and older.
This change is expected to impact a small number of people who may be considering their first dose, or parents of children who are nearing a birthday and considering vaccination.
ATAGI further advises that:
People aged 12-17 years are recommended to receive a BA.4-5-containing bivalent vaccine for both the primary course and booster doses.
People aged 18 years and older are recommended to receive either a BA.1-containing bivalent vaccine or a BA.4-5-containing bivalent vaccine for both the primary course and booster doses.
People aged 12 and older who have commenced their primary course with an ancestral vaccine are recommended to complete the course with a bivalent vaccine.
When using a bivalent vaccine for primary vaccination, the number of doses and the interval between the doses are the same as for the original.
ATAGI considers there to be no additional safety concerns when using bivalent vaccines for the primary course, compared with the original vaccines.
