NSW Health has temporarily paused the administration of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in light of recommendations issued last night by the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI).
The pause in administration of the vaccine to all age groups at NSW clinics is in effect until informed consent information is updated.
A NSW Health spokesperson says AstraZeneca vaccinations for those aged 50 years and over will recommence later today.
"As with all other vaccines, informed consent is required before administering COVID-19 vaccines, ensuring recipients make decisions based on an understanding of the risks and benefits," says the NSW Health spokesperson.
"Following the new advice from the Commonwealth last night, informed consent information will be updated to provide patients and those administering the AstraZeneca vaccine with the latest information."
The Pfizer vaccine will continue to be administered as planned at NSW Health clinics.
The news comes after the Federal Government accepted recommendations from ATAGI that the Pfizer vaccine is preferable for people aged under 50.
It saw the Government place the onus on the public to decide whether or not they will receive the AstraZeneca vaccine, with health officials developing resources to let Australians give "informed consent" before receiving the jab.
The recommendations follow the discovery of rare and potentially deadly side effects experienced by a tiny portion of younger AstraZeneca vaccine recipients.
Updated at 12.40pm AEST on 9 April 2021.
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