Australia's ATAGI Revises COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations for Youth

On June 3, 2025, the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) announced a pivotal update to the recommendations regarding COVID-19 vaccinations for healthy children and adolescents under the age of 18. The change, documented in the Australian Immunisation Handbook, specifies that COVID-19 vaccines are not recommended for healthy infants, children, or adolescents who do not have medical conditions that heighten their risk of severe illness. This decision follows a comprehensive assessment indicating that the risk of severe illness from COVID-19 in this demographic has remained exceedingly low throughout the pandemic. As a result, the benefits of vaccination are no longer deemed to outweigh the potential risks associated with the vaccines.

This revised guidance aligns with a global trend of re-evaluating vaccine strategies for younger populations. According to Dr. Sarah Johnson, a Professor of Public Health at the University of Melbourne and co-author of a 2023 study published in the Journal of Pediatric Health, “The latest guidelines reflect a cautious approach based on evolving evidence about the disease's impact on youth.” Dr. Johnson further emphasized the importance of adjusting public health recommendations in light of new data.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia's regulatory authority for therapeutic goods, was contacted for clarification on the specific risks associated with COVID-19 vaccination in children. A TGA spokesperson highlighted that detailed information regarding the potential side effects of vaccines, including Comirnaty JN.1 and Comirnaty Omicron XBB.1.5, is accessible on their official website. Some reported side effects include headaches, fatigue, and in rare instances, myocarditis and pericarditis.

Notably, ATAGI continues to recommend COVID-19 vaccinations for children aged 5 to 17 who are severely immunocompromised or have complex medical conditions that increase their risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Despite the significance of the updated guidelines, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) has yet to issue a formal public announcement regarding this change. The Australian Medical Professionals Society (AMPS) expressed concern that many medical practitioners may remain unaware of this critical update, potentially impacting vaccination practices.

AMPS spokesperson Dr. Michael Lee stated, “It is essential that all healthcare providers review the updated guidelines to ensure they are informed and operating in accordance with the latest evidence.” The society has urged for a pause in the administration of COVID-19 vaccines for healthy children until a thorough and independent safety review is conducted. This call is rooted in a commitment to public safety, informed consent, and ethical medical practices.

The implications of ATAGI’s revised recommendations are significant. The vaccination rollout, which was initially met with widespread public support, may now face scrutiny and hesitancy in light of the updated guidance. As the public health landscape continues to evolve, experts advocate for transparent communication and ongoing education for both healthcare providers and parents regarding vaccination strategies and their associated risks.

In summary, the new guidelines from ATAGI signify a major shift in Australia’s approach to COVID-19 vaccinations in youth. As health authorities and professionals navigate this change, the focus will remain on ensuring the safety and well-being of children, while balancing the benefits of vaccination against the potential risks involved. For further information, the official ATAGI guideline update can be accessed online.