THE recommended age limit for administering the AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 vaccine has been raised to 60 – while a glitch in supplies of the Pfizer vaccine could see supplies delayed in the Swan Hill region.
Australia’s expert immunisation panel has recommended that AstraZeneca should now be given only to people over the age of 60.
The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation had previously recommended the vaccine for people aged over 50.
Minister for Health Greg Hunt announced the recommendation in a press conference on Thursday.
Those who are under 60 and have already received their AstraZeneca vaccine are strongly recommended to get their second dose.
The advice on the AstraZeneca vaccine comes after the death of a 52-year old NSW woman was linked to the jab.Meanwhile, people under 60 wanting to get a Pfizer vaccine may have to wait a little longer after supply shortages at vaccination hubs across the state.
Swan Hill District Health operates the Bendigo-Loddon Public Vaccination Unit Hub, one of nine in the state.
Chief executive officer Peter Abraham told The Guardian there could be delays at a local level.
“If the Loddon Public Vaccination Unit is affected by supply, then there will be a flow-on effect to SHDH,” Mr Abraham said.
“At this time, SHDH has received sufficient supply to meet its current service needs.”
But he said SHDH did have an advantage through its agreement with the federal government to deliver vaccinations through the GP Respiratory Clinic program.
“Whilst the Pfizer vaccine is not yet available through this program, supply of the AstraZeneca vaccine for this service has been consistent,” he said.
Mr Abraham said SHDH was not aware of anyone who had received their first dose of Pfizer at a SHDH delivered service, having not being able to access a second dose within the appropriate timelines.
The Pfizer vaccines should be taken at least 21 days apart.
Doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine should be 12 weeks apart.
