From today, more than 14 general practices in South Eastern NSW will be able to administer COVID-19 vaccines to children aged 6 months to under 5 years who are at risk of severe COVID-19.

Vaccination against COVID is recommended by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) only for children under five years of age with severe immunocompromise, disability, and those who have complex and/or multiple health conditions which increase their risk of severe COVID-19.

Ms Dianne Kitcher, CEO of COORDINARE – South Eastern NSW PHN said: “General practices administering the Moderna 6 month to 5 years vaccine in our region have been selected by the Commonwealth Government based on geographic coverage of the eligible population, expected patient numbers and usage of current vaccines.

“At this stage, most children aged 6 months to under 5 years won’t require a COVID vaccine, as they have a very low likelihood of severe illness from COVID-19,” said Ms Kitcher.

To check eligibility, parents are encouraged to view the list of conditions on the Department of Health and Aged Care’s website or contact the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080.

The general practice vaccination sites selected for South Eastern NSW are located in Batemans Bay, Bulli, Goulburn, Jindabyne, Helensburgh, Moruya, Nowra, Queanbeyan, Sussex Inlet, Tura Beach, Ulladulla, Warrawong, Wollongong and Yass.

Bookings are now open on the Vaccine Clinic Finder. The recommendation is for 2 primary doses, except for those children with severe immunocompromise who will require 3 primary doses. The recommended interval between each dose is 8 weeks.

If an eligible child has had COVID-19, they should wait 3 months after testing positive to COVID-19 before they have a COVID-19 vaccine dose. The next scheduled dose should be given as soon as possible after 3 months.

A list of conditions (not exhaustive) and the full recommendation for children aged 6 months to 5 years who are at risk of severe COVID-19 can be found on the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care’s website.