Australians Under 40 Are Receiving Covid-19 Vaccinations Despite Not Being Eligible

Australians under 40 years old without underlying health conditions or high-risk professions are taking advantage of the Covid-19 vaccination program, sparking debate among health experts. Some nurses are encouraging these individuals to get vaccinated, citing the importance of expediting the process. However, Professor Julie Leask from the University of Sydney's Faculty of Medicine has raised concerns about opening up the program too soon, given the short supply of the Pfizer vaccine.

Key Takeaways:

• Australians under 40 are receiving Covid-19 vaccinations despite not being officially eligible, with some states allowing under 50s to get vaccinated at the discretion of healthcare workers.
• Queensland Health has stated that some vaccination sites are now open to people aged 16 to 49, while Victoria has restricted Pfizer bookings to those who have already made appointments for their first dose.
• A nurse working at a major vaccination hub in Victoria suggested that it often comes down to luck on the day, with some nurses and doctors following the rules strictly.
• Professor Julie Leask warns that opening up the program too soon could lead to a shortage of Pfizer vaccine supply, which could cause issues with those already scheduled to receive the vaccine.
• Chase Arnesen, 32, received the AstraZeneca vaccine despite not being eligible, citing the importance of getting vaccinated as soon as possible to free up a dose for someone who may not take it.
• Vanessa, 45, was able to book a vaccination in Tasmania without being asked about her eligibility, and was given a Pfizer shot without issue.

Statistics:

• Around 50,000 people booked for their first dose of Pfizer in Victoria this week, with a similar number of bookings reserved for second doses.
• The Victorian government has sent a request to the federal health minister, Greg Hunt, asking for more vaccines.
• It is estimated that those under 50s are succeeding in getting the Pfizer vaccine in states where eligibility applies only to those with qualifying factors.

Sources:

• Donna Lu and Melissa Davey, Australians under 40 are getting vaccinated despite not being eligible, The Guardian
• Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (Atagi) advice, Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine preferred for those under 50 due to the extremely rare risk of blood clotting associated with the AstraZeneca vaccine.