COVID-19 vaccine coverage targets to inform reopening plans in a low incidence setting

Since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 in 2019 through to mid-2021, much of the Australian population lived in a COVID-19-free environment. This followed the broadly successful implementation of a strong suppression strategy, including international border closures. With the availability of COVID-19 vaccines in early 2021, the national government sought to transition from a state of minimal incidence and strong suppression activities to one of high vaccine coverage and reduced restrictions but with still-manageable transmission.

Citation:
Conway E, Walker CR, Baker C, ……. Ryan GE, Campbell T, Miller JC, …….. Golding N, Price DJ, Shearer FM. COVID-19 vaccine coverage targets to inform reopening plans in a low incidence setting. Proc Biol Sci. 2023;290(2005):20231437.

Keywords:
COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; mathematical modelling; pandemic response; public health policy; vaccination strategy

Abstract:
Since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 in 2019 through to mid-2021, much of the Australian population lived in a COVID-19-free environment. This followed the broadly successful implementation of a strong suppression strategy, including international border closures. With the availability of COVID-19 vaccines in early 2021, the national government sought to transition from a state of minimal incidence and strong suppression activities to one of high vaccine coverage and reduced restrictions but with still-manageable transmission.