As Australia braces for yet another wave of Omicron infections, researchers are questioning whether further vaccinations should be rolled out among the general population.
More than 70 per cent of Australians have had at least three shots of a COVID-19 vaccine – that’s two normal doses, plus a smaller booster jab.
A second booster dose – the fourth jab in total - is currently recommended for certain vulnerable groups, such as those who are over 65, or the severely immunocompromised.
University of Newcastle immunologist Nathan Bartlett says this should be expanded as a matter of priority.
The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation provides the government with recommendations on COVID-19 vaccine eligibility.
Its latest advice, published in late May, states that – for health people under 64 - one booster is enough to protect them from severe illness.
Federal Health Minister Mark Butler last week warned Australia to prepare for another wave of Omicron cases to sweep the country.
Over the weekend Australia registered its 10,000th coronavirus death.
Around 40 people on average are dying with the virus every day.
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