Millions of Aussies may require fourth Covid vaccine: 'Under consideration'

A fourth Covid-19 jab could be on the cards for some Aussies, with authorities also "very close" to deciding if the definition of fully vaccinated will change from two jabs to three.

According to Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt, "older Australians and perhaps those working with vulnerable patients” are being considered for a fourth dose of a Covid vaccine.

"Most likely advice at this stage is that if there were to be a fourth dose, it’s more generally going to be focused on older Australians and immuno-compromised Australians, and perhaps those working with vulnerable patients," he said in a press conference.

“That’s still under active medical consideration, but the supplies and logistics are in place to deliver that if it’s required."

Definition of fully vaccinated may change

Over four million additional Australians are now eligible for their Covid-19 booster dose, with the Australian Government shortening the eligible time from four months to three months for when a person can receive their booster.

"We know that two doses of a Covid-19 vaccine provides very good protection, especially against severe disease," Deputy Chief Medical Officer Michael Kidd said on Monday.

"A booster dose ensures the protection from the first two doses is even stronger and longer lasting and helps to prevent the virus from spreading, prevent new variants from emerging."

Victorian Health Minister Martin Foley said the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) was still considering whether people would need three doses to be classed fully vaccinated.

"The process is pretty clear. The Australian Technical Advisory Group find what constitutes being fully vaccinated," he told reporters on Tuesday.

"They are very close to resolving that. I would expect that to be three doses when it comes to dealing with Omicron for the majority of the community and four doses when it comes to immunocompromised and vulnerable people."

• Unvaxxed man in need of an organ transplant vows to 'die free' rather than get the jab

• Hospital refuses heart transplant for anti-vaxxer 'on edge of death'

• The 'good news' if you've already been infected with Omicron

Over 93.3 per cent of Australians over the age of 16 have received two doses of a Covid jab and 7,764,564 of residents over the age of 18 have received a third dose of a Covid vaccination. 

Currently, ATAGI defines fully vaccinated as someone who has received two doses of any Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approved or TGA recognised Covid-19 vaccine at least 14 days apart, and • are at least 7 days post their second dose.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play.