Pregnant women need COVID-19 vax priority, warns RACGP

Although inoculation is deemed safe and effective, most pregnant women are not in the eligible age group
Pregnancy

The RACGP is urging the Federal Government to give pregnant women priority in the COVID-19 vaccine rollout given the threat posed by the Delta variant.

It has been five weeks since the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) and RANZCOG recommended pregnant women could receive the Pfizer vaccine, based on post-market safety evidence and the risk of poor outcomes from COVID-19 infection.

But the rollout rules have not been updated to reflect the advice.

“The Federal Government should seek ATAGI advice regarding opening up vaccine eligibility to teachers, pregnant women and people living with healthcare workers,” college president Dr Karen Price says.