NIAC updated recommendations for COVID-19 primary schedule vaccination

1. A primary schedule of a COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for:
 

• those aged 60 years and older
• those aged 18-59 years living in long term care facilities for older adults
• those aged 6 months-59 years with:
  • immunocompromise associated with a suboptimal response to vaccination
  • medical conditions associated with a higher risk of COVID-19 hospitalisation, severe disease or death.
  • health and care workers
  • pregnant adolescents and adults.

2. For those aged 6 months-59 years who are healthy:

• a primary schedule of a COVID-19 vaccine is not routinely recommended 
• access to a primary schedule of COVID-19 vaccine should be available for those who, following discussion of their reasons with a health care provider (e.g., GP, pharmacist or HSE vaccinator), request vaccination.

3. Antigenically updated COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are the preferred vaccine for use.
4. Protein subunit vaccines may be used as alternatives in those for whom an mRNA vaccine is contraindicated or declined.
• Nuvaxovid (antigenically updated) is the preferred alternate.

5. Dosing recommendations for COVID-19 primary schedule remain unchanged and are outlined in Chapter 5a of the Immunisation Guidelines for Ireland.