Frequently asked questions: COVID-19

I have not had a 2023 booster yet, is it too late for me to have one?

No. Anyone recommended for a COVID-19 vaccine, should get one as soon as possible if they haven’t had one yet.

What if I missed one of my COVID-19 vaccine doses?

Australia has moved away from numbering doses and a ‘catch-up’ vaccination is not required. ATAGI recommends a primary course of COVID-19 vaccinations, including a dose in 2023 and an additional dose if recommended.

It doesn’t matter how many doses a person has had before 2023.

I had COVID last month, but my last dose was more than 6 months ago. Should I have another dose?

There is not much benefit from having a COVID-19 vaccine soon after infection.

If you are unsure if you have had a COVID-19 infection in the past 6 months, it is safe to get a dose.

Who can give me a COVID-19 booster?

You can find a COVID-19 vaccine clinic and book an appointment with the health Service Finder at healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services.

You can get a COVID-19 vaccine from your local GP or pharmacist, or a GP or pharmacist visiting your aged care home.

Is there a new vaccine that people should be asking for?

All COVID-19 vaccines are anticipated to provide benefit to eligible people. However, the monovalent Omicron XBB.1.5 vaccines are preferred over other vaccines for eligible people.

Where can I find information about COVID-19 and vaccines?

See the Department of Health and Aged Care website: health.gov.au/covid-19-vaccines.

You can also find a COVID-19 vaccine clinic and book an appointment with the health Service Finder at healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services or call 1800 022 222 if you need COVID-19 advice.

What can older people do if they get COVID-19?

If you get COVID-19 you need to take the oral antiviral treatments as soon as possible or within 5 days after getting symptoms.

Oral antivirals treatments are safe and effective in reducing the severity of COVID-19 and are available to people at high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 including people 70 years and older.

Make sure you talk to your GP or nurse practitioner to find out whether the oral antiviral treatments are right for you and how to access antivirals quickly if you need them.