25 March 2022

Eligible Canberrans will soon have access to a winter dose of COVID-19 vaccination following approval from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation of the additional vaccination for specific cohorts.

“A winter dose will be available from April for a number of Canberrans at ACT Government clinics 4 months from their booster dose,” said ACT Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith.

“This is very welcome news and provides Canberrans who are more at risk of severe outcomes as a result of contracting COVID-19 with boosted protection. This is particularly important as we head into winter where we will see both COVID-19 and influenza circulating in our community.

The following people will soon be eligible to access their second booster:

  • Adults aged 65 and over
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years and older
  • Residents of aged care or disability care settings

“People aged 16 years and older who are severely immunocompromised who have already had a fourth dose will also become eligible for a winter booster at this time,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.

“We expect to announce when bookings will open for those eligible for a winter dose next week.

“COVID-19 is still very much in our community and it’s important that we do everything we can to protect ourselves and those around us and being up to date with our vaccinations is key.

“For Canberrans who haven’t yet had a third dose, getting your COVID-19 booster is one of the best things you can do to protect yourself, your family and the community from COVID-19.

“There are walk in appointments available every day at the AIS, so I encourage anyone who still needs their booster shot to go and get it as soon as you can.

“We know that the booster further reduces your chances of severe illness and death and having the vaccine means you are less likely to catch COVID-19 and therefore pass it on to others.”

People who have had COVID-19 can and should still get a booster to provide them the best protection against further infections.

“While you may choose to delay vaccination for up to four months after recovering from COVID-19, you can get your booster shot at any time once you are fully recovered.

“Talk to a GP or health care provider after you have recovered from COVID-19 for advice on the best timing for vaccination,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.

“Bookings for boosters at an ACT Government clinic can be made online through MyDHR or by phoning our COVID-19 vaccination booking line on 02 5124 7700” she said.

More information on the ACT COVID-19 vaccine website.