AstraZeneca approved by TGA for Covid-19 booster shot

Australians have a new option for a Covid-19 booster shot, but there is a catch.

AstraZeneca has been provisionally approved as a booster for Covid-19 in a big move in Australia’s vaccine rollout.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration gave the green light for adults aged 18 and over, only if it has been “clinically indicated with reference to official guidance regarding the use of a (mRNA) third dose”.

The TGA says the decision to receive AstraZeneca’s Vaxzervia as a booster must be made in consultation with a medical professional.

“The mRNA Covid-19 vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) are preferred as the booster dose in Australia, irrespective of the primary Covid-19 vaccine used,” the TGA said in a statement.

“This includes for people who received the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine for their primary course.”

AstraZeneca has been provisionally approved as a booster for Covid-19, as long as a medical professional signs off on it. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Kelly Barnes

The approval comes ahead of an anticipated decision by the Australian Technical Advisory Group of Immunisations on whether to update the definition of “fully vaccinated” to mean someone who has received their booster.

ATAGI will provide advice to National Cabinet when they meet on Thursday.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has already indicated he could mandate third doses as a condition of entry to pubs, restaurants and major events.

Mr Andrews has also indicated international travellers wanting to visit Victoria would need to have had their third dose, in contrast to federal government advice which says double dose is sufficient.