4 August 2022

The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) has welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement that the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine will be available from September for children aged 6 months to under 5 years at risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19.

The announcement follows recommendations made by Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) about COVID-19 vaccination for children.

RACP President and Paediatrician Dr Jacqueline Small says, “This announcement means approximately 70,000 children will be eligible for a crucial extra layer of protection.

“Preventing severe illness caused by the COVID-19 virus in children with compromised immune systems, disabilities, or who have complex and/or multiple health conditions is very important.

“Children are less likely to have severe outcomes or complications from COVID-19 compared with adults. However, they continue to experience high levels of infection.

“We’ve seen how the pandemic has impacted the lives of young people and the RACP has been advocating for further supports to help them bounce back from these hardships through our Kids COVID Catch Up campaign. Protecting them in their early developmental years is a productive step forward.

“It is reassuring that our younger population now have access to COVID-19 vaccines, which contributes to keeping the whole community healthy and safe.

“It remains important that other vaccines on the National Immunisation Program, such as the influenza vaccine, are also up to date for children. Timely administration of these vaccines are a priority to reduce their risk of illness.”

Most of the common side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine occur in the first 24-28 hours and include fever, headache, and a sore arm. In specific circumstances coadministration of the COVID-19 vaccine can occur if with other vaccines if separation of vaccines is not possible, such as in rural areas. It is encouraged, where possible, to wait the recommended 7-14 days between vaccines to minimise side effects such as fever.

“Families can be confident that the safety and effectiveness of the vaccines has been carefully evaluated and Australia has a strong approval safety surveillance system. Paediatricians and physicians are happy to discuss any questions families have and assure families that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe.” Dr Small said.

Find out more about the Kids COVID Catch Up campaign here: https://kidscatchup.org.au/