What did Scott Morrison say about AstraZeneca for the under 40s?
Scott Morrison noted that while the ATAGI advice prefers AstraZeneca for those over 60, ‘the advice does not preclude persons under 60 from getting the AstraZeneca vaccine’.
When a reporter asked the Prime Minister if the indemnity arrangements meant that people under the age of 40 would be able to ‘talk to their GPs and get the jab immediately’, he responded:
“Well, if they wish to go and speak to their doctor and have access to the AstraZeneca vaccine, they can do so … So, the answer is yes, they can go and do that.”
Conclusion: He was saying the ATAGI advice prefers AstraZeneca for those over 60, but if those younger want AstraZeneca, they can discuss this with their doctor.
A medicare rebate is being arranged to cover this discussion.
The Chief Public Health Officer of South Australia, Nicola Spurrier, said “it’s the patient’s choice, if they have had a robust discussion with their GP and understand the risk, it is their decision“.
Queensland chief health officer Jeannette Young said “No, I do not want under 40s to get AstraZeneca because they are at increased risk of getting — it is rare — but they’re at increased risk of getting that rare clotting syndrome.” 3.1 per 100,000 for under 50s, compared to 1.9 per 100,000 for the over 80s, for whom it is considered safe.
NSW Premier, Gladys Beregikrian, says “If you’re under the age of 60 and need AstraZeneca, you’ll need to talk to your doctor.”
Estimated risk of TTS from AstraZeneca vaccine first dose.
Age under 50: 3.1 per 100,000
Age over 80: 1.9 per 100,000
There is minimal risk for the 2nd dose.