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Young children most at risk are now eligible for COVID-19 vaccination

30 August 2022

Young children aged 6 months to 4 years with severe immunocompromise, disability, or who have complex and/or multiple health conditions, are now eligible for COVID-19 vaccination.

Children in this age group who are not in the specified risk categories are not recommended for COVID-19 vaccination, as these children have a very low likelihood of severe illness from COVID-19.

Child receiving vaccination

Parents/carers are recommended to consult with their doctor or health care provider to confirm if their child is eligible (external site).

In Australia, the paediatric formulation of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine (Spikevax) is the only approved vaccination to be given to eligible children in this age group.  It is recommended these children receive 2 primary doses of the vaccine, and those with severe immunocompromise will require 3 primary doses. The recommended interval between each dose is 8 weeks. 

Bookings for the vaccine are required. Appointments are available at the Stan Perron Immunisation Centre at Perth Children’s Hospital or through a number of GPs across the state.

To book an appointment Perth Children’s Hospital, visit VaccinateWA or ring 13 COVID (13 26843).

To find a participating GP clinic, visit the COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Finder website.

If you are unable to visit Perth Children’s Hospital, or do not live near any of the listed participating GP clinics, please complete the Further Assistance Required online form, email COVID.immunisation@health.wa.gov.au, or ring 13 COVID (13 26843), and a clinic nurse will be in contact with you to make alternative arrangements.

If your child has recently tested positive to COVID-19, they should wait 3 months before having a COVID-19 vaccination. Please discuss this with the clinic when booking your appointment.

For more information, see the HealthyWA COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions.

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