The Federal Government has opened the door for GPs to administer AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 vaccine to all adult patients under the age of 60 who request it.  

It’s announced a new no-fault indemnity scheme covering COVID-19 vaccinations that it says will support GPs offering the viral vector vaccine to younger patients. 

There has been no change to the ATAGI advice which says Pfizer’s vaccine is “preferred” for patients under 60 because of the risks of thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS).

But speaking last night, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said GPs could offer the vaccine to the under 60s, including anyone aged between 18 and 39 who are not currently eligible for a Pfizer vaccine.