While Australia’s booster program of COVID-19 vaccines is just getting going, governments overseas are evaluating the need for a fourth dose program.

Earlier this year, Israel began offering a fourth dose of the Pfizer mRNA vaccine to people who are immunocompromised, older people, and front line health workers. Israeli medical experts have since suggested fourth doses for everyone over 18.

A number of other countries are deploying or considering a fourth dose program. Meanwhile, the UK have ruled it out for the time being.

In Australia, a fourth dose for significantly immunocompromised people – such as those with certain cancers – was approved by ATAGI in early January and is being evaluated for other high-risk populations by the government.