COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness. However, some people will become seriously ill and require medical attention.
The best way to prevent and slow down the spread of the virus is to get vaccinated. The COVID-19 vaccine is free for everyone. You do not need a Medicare card.
You need two doses of the same COVID-19 vaccine for it to be effective. When you get your first dose, you will be told when you need to get your second dose.
Over time the protection provided by two doses of the vaccine can begin to decrease, a third dose prevents this from happening. Third doses are important to give you maximum protection against COVID-19 and to help reduce the spread of the virus.
Third doses are available to anyone aged 16 and older who have had their second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine three or more months ago.
All vaccines are carefully tested to make sure they are safe before they are approved for use in Australia.
If you are worried about your health or getting the COVID-19 vaccine, talk to your doctor.
