Who needs another COVID vaccine? Well, that's a question that's been on many minds as the pandemic continues to evolve. While the risk of severe disease from COVID has decreased significantly, there are still groups who should consider getting vaccinated, and others who might be able to skip it. Let's dive into the latest recommendations and explore who might benefit from a COVID vaccine and how often they should get it.
The Importance of Vaccination
First things first, let's acknowledge the importance of vaccination. COVID vaccines have proven to be highly effective in preventing deaths and serious complications from the virus. In Australia, COVID continues to cause a significant number of hospitalisations and deaths, especially among older adults and those with underlying chronic diseases. According to the latest data, COVID was the leading infectious cause of death in Australia between 2020-2025, with 4,613 deaths in 2023, 3,908 in 2024, and 1,722 in 2025. These numbers highlight the ongoing threat of the virus and the need for continued protection.
Who Should Get a COVID Vaccine?
Older Adults and Those with Underlying Conditions
Older adults, especially those aged 75 and above, are recommended to get a COVID booster every six months. This is because older adults are at a higher risk of severe disease and complications from COVID. Additionally, adults aged 65-74 years without underlying conditions should receive a booster every 12 months. For those aged 18-64 with underlying conditions, such as asthma or heart disease, a booster every 12 months is also advised.
Residential aged care facilities are particularly vulnerable to COVID outbreaks due to the close living conditions and frequent contact with care workers. Therefore, residents of these facilities are recommended to get a booster every six months.
Pregnant Women
Pregnant women who have never been vaccinated should receive a COVID vaccine. This is because vaccination during pregnancy has been shown to reduce the risk of pregnancy complications. However, otherwise healthy, previously vaccinated pregnant women are no longer recommended to have boosters. The risk of severe disease or complications from COVID is low for this group.
Hybrid Immunity and Declining Immunity
One interesting aspect of COVID vaccination is the concept of hybrid immunity. Many individuals have developed immunity through both vaccination and natural infection. This hybrid immunity is considered highly protective and can provide a strong defense against the virus. However, it's important to note that immunity from vaccines might decline over time, typically around six months. But with high levels of hybrid immunity in the population, this declining immunity is less concerning.
Optional Vaccination for Other Adults
Younger, otherwise healthy adults are generally at a lower risk of severe disease from COVID. COVID vaccines are available for adults aged 18-64 years, but they are not recommended for everyone. The decision to get an additional booster is up to the individual, considering the risks and benefits. It's worth noting that severe adverse events are extremely rare, with only one to two cases per 100,000 vaccinations.
Children and Vaccination
Children with underlying conditions, such as obesity or chronic heart, lung, or neurological problems, are at a higher risk of severe COVID. A primary course of the COVID vaccine is available for children aged six months and older with such conditions. Booster vaccines are also available for children aged 5-17 years who are severely immunocompromised, administered every 12 months.
Available Vaccines
The Comirnarty vaccine is the main COVID vaccine available in Australia, with two formulations: one against the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron JN.1 and the other against the Omicron LP.8.1 variant. Studies have shown that the JN.1 formulation is effective in preventing hospitalisations in immunocompromised adults aged 65 and over. The LP.8.1 formulation has also been found to generate antibodies against the NB.1.8.1 variant, which is currently circulating in Australia and globally dominant.
In conclusion, while the risk of severe COVID has decreased, there are still groups who should consider getting vaccinated. Older adults, those with underlying conditions, and pregnant women should follow the recommended booster schedules. Hybrid immunity and declining immunity should also be considered when making vaccination decisions. For younger, otherwise healthy adults, the choice is more individualised, weighing the risks and benefits. And for children, vaccination remains crucial for those with underlying conditions. As the pandemic continues to evolve, staying informed and making informed decisions about vaccination is essential for protecting ourselves and our communities.
