A high vaccination rate contributes to your own protection and to the containment of the pandemic. Once you have received all required doses of the vaccine, you have reliable protection against COVID-19. In exceptional cases, COVID-19 can still be contracted after the vaccination, but in such a case, the progression is usually much more harmless.

You can book your vaccination appointment here. If you book an appointment, a rapid process will be guaranteed. If you make a spontaneous decision to get vaccinated without an appointment, several vaccination sites throughout the city are at your disposal. Please note that only a limited number of vaccinations can be administered in the course the “Vaccination without appointment” campaign 

Yes. You can book appointments for relatives during your booking. Select “Add relative(s)” in the section Personal Data and fill in the required information. You can add up to four persons in addition to yourself. Select “vaccination programme” and the programme that you are part of, then click on “group booking”. Select the relative you would like to add and click “Continue”. Now select the vaccination site that you want to get vaccinated at, as well as a date and time and complete the process by clicking “book”. If you need help with your booking, you can call 1450

• If there is wrong information on your vaccination certificate or your recovery certificate that require corrections, please book an appointment at the point of contact at Austria Center Vienna (ACV) by calling 1450 or by registering online. Please note that addendums or rectifications can only be made upon appointment.  

• Please bring the following to your appointment:  
  • Registration confirmation (ticket) 
  • E-card (if you have one) 
  • Vaccination certificate 
  • Photo ID 
  • FFP2 mask 

• To help you avoid unnecessary trips, please note the following: 
  • Please not that you will receive a vaccination certificate 2/2 for the completion of your basic immunisation (3rd dose) if fewer than 120 days have passed between your second and your third dose. If 120 or more days have passed between your second and third dose, you will receive a vaccination certificate 3/3.
  • To have your recovery certificate processed, you must present a positive PCR test carried out in Austria.

• If you have not yet received your recovery certificate, please note the deadline of 15 days after your positive PCR test. 

With the new vaccination portal, data security and data quality are of utmost importance. Therefore, details on relatives are not saved if essential information is missing (i.e. First name, date of birth). 
You can add relatives at any time – over the course of the migration to the portal and also within the portal under “Personal details”. 

Instructions on how to set up your account can be found here: https://mein.wien.gv.at/FAQ  

Persons without an e-card can still get vaccinated for free in Vienna; your vaccination will be recorded in the yellow international vaccination certificate.  

You can also apply for an e-card for use of ELGA at the Austrian regional health insurance. A prerequisite for an e-card to be issued is that you have a recent photo available that meets the necessary requirements.  

It is not required that you have insurance coverage for an e-card to be issued or for you to use ELGA or the e-vaccination certificate. Moreover, no social security contributions will be charged. An e-card is necessary for a clear identification of persons, and so that this data can be digitally managed within the healthcare sector. Only once you have a social security number can your vaccination be added to the e-vaccination passport. 

1. After you have applied for your e-card and you have received a social security number, your vaccination can be added by the vaccination site, and you can retrieve your vaccination certificate:  

2. You can retrieve the certificates via a mobile phone signature or citizen’s card at “gesundheit.gv.at”.  

3. Moreover, the City of Vienna has Homecare, a central service for 3G certificates. If you have been to a test centre, a pharmacy, or a lab to get tested, you will receive a text message or email with a document link personalised to you (direct link). To retrieve the certificates, you need your PIN, which you should have received initially; if you do not have a PIN, please inquire about it at a test centre. If you are not yet registered, you can do so by clicking on this link: https://app.wien.gv.at/covidregistrierung/ 

You can also pick up your certificate as a print-out in some test centres, in pharmacies, and at the Austrian Health Insurance Company.

The following vaccines are EMA-approved:

• Comirnaty (BioNTech-Pfizer)
• COVID-19 vaccine Moderna
• COVID-19 vaccine Janssen
• Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca)
• Novavax (Nuvaxovid)
• COVID-19 vaccine Valneva

If you received one of the above-mentioned, EMA-approved vaccines abroad, please contact the following doctor’s surgeries, as they can add your vaccination to your e-vaccination passport.

If you have any questions about the booking process or other functions available upon registration at mein.wien or impfservice.wien, please call 01 90330.

If you have any questions regarding the booking tool, such as about the availability of vaccination appointments, the period between booster shots etc. please call 01 90330.

You can request that you impfservice.wien account be deleted by calling 01 90330. Please note that your data will be permanently deleted once your account is deleted and it cannot be restored.

If you have any questions about the Covid vaccine and prefer a personal consultation appointment, you can book a date online or via telephone by calling 1450. After your consultation appointment, you will be able to get vaccinated against coronavirus right away.

Everyone who feels exhausted by the pandemic, everyone who needs help, and everyone who simply needs someone to talk to may call the Coronavirus Helpline Vienna (01 4000 53000 – Monday to Sunday between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm). For anyone who is especially worried or scared when it comes to getting vaccinated, the staff of the Coronavirus Helpline now have this special offer.

Please contact cov19.impfung@ma15.wien.gv.at (Subject: Impfschutz bei Immunsuppression or Immunisation with immunosuppression) and declare your need for a booster shot. After your case has been reviewed and we have checked back with you, you will be contacted immediately to be informed about the next steps. For a faster processing of your request, you may attach your doctor’s report or other relevant medical documents to your email. 

It is recommended that all persons 12 years and older get a booster shot (“4th dose”) six months after their 3rd dose (off-label). It is recommended that all persons 60 years and older and all those who are immunocompromised or immunosuppressed (regardless of age) get a “booster shot” (4th dose) 4 months after their 3rd dose (off-label). 

• Regardless of which vaccines were used for the previous shots, mRNA vaccines (monovalent or bivalent vaccines by BioNTech/Pfizer or Moderna) are recommended for the 3^rd dose (or 2^nd dose, respectively, for those who received the single-dose vaccine by Johnson&Johnson / Janssen /Jcovden for basic immunisation). You can also request to get a protein-based vaccine (Nuvaxovid by Novavax or VidPrevtyn Beta by Sanofi Pasteur MSD). 
• For the booster shot (“4^th dose”), it is possible to administer either the same or a different mRNA vaccine as in the previous basic immunisation (“3th dose”). Bivalent mRNA vaccines come with a special recommendation for booster shots (4^th dose). You can also request to get a protein-based vaccine (Nuvaxovid by Novavax or VidPrevtyn Beta by Sanofi Pasteur MSD). 
• According to the recommendations of the National Vaccination Board, the Moderna vaccine (monovalent and bivalent BA.1 and BA.4-5 vaccine) is only recommended for persons from 30 years of age. The Moderna vaccine can, however, be administered to persons under the age of 30 upon their express request, and in line with vaccine approval conditions.

A heterogeneous vaccination pattern, with a change of vaccine between successive doses, is known as “cross vaccination”. Since cross vaccination is not approved by the respective vaccine providers, it may only be administered off-label. 

• Infants and small children from six months to four years of age get the BionNTech/Pfizer vaccine in a dose that is adapted to their age group.  
• Persons from the age of 5 years will receive the Covid vaccination with the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine.  
• The National Vaccination Board recommends the Moderna (Spikevax) vaccine  only for persons of 30 years and older. Upon express request and in line with approval regulations, the Moderna vaccine can also be administered to persons under 30 years of age.  
• The Johnson & Johnson vaccine is administered to persons as of 18 years of age.  
• The Novavax (Nuvaxovid) vaccine is administered to persons from 18 years of age for basic immunisation.  
• The COVID-19 vaccine Valneva is used for persons between 18 and 50 years of age. 
• The VidPrevtyn Beta (Sanofi Pasteur MSD) vaccine is only administered to persons from 18 years of age for their 3rd dose and/or further booster shots. 

Please note that children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a legal guardian, and the final decision and choice of vaccine administered to children aged 5 to 12 lies with the attending physician.  

For the vaccines by BioNTech/Pfizer, Moderna, and Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca), the COVID-19 vaccine Valneva, and Novavax (Nuvaxovid), you need to have received the recommended number of doses (as per recommendation of the National Vaccination Board) to be considered fully vaccinated. For the Jcovden (Johnson & Johnson, Janssen) vaccine, the National Vaccination Board also recommends that you get a second vaccination. Please note that, in this case, an mRNA vaccine (BioNTech/Pfizer, Moderna) should be used for the 2nd dose. The vaccine VidPrevtyn Beta (Sanofi Pasteur MSD) is only administered to persons from the age of 18 as a 3rd dose or further booster shot. Depending on the vaccine, you can get your second dose between 3 and 8 weeks after your first dose:  

• BioNTech/Pfizer 3-6 weeks,  
• Moderna 3-6 weeks,  
• AstraZeneca (Vaxzevria) 4-8 weeks,  
• Novavax (Nuvaxovid) 3-6 weeks,  
• Jcovden / Johnson & Johnson (Jansson) 4-8 weeks.  
• COVID-19 vaccine Valneva 4 weeks 
• VidPrevtyn Beta (Sanofi Pasteur MSD) is only administered as a 3rd dose or further booster shot (4-6 months after receiving your 2nd or 3rd dose).   

You will start developing antibodies after the first dose and protection will set in three weeks later. To ensure complete basic immunisation and a lasting protection from the virus, three doses are required. After the second dose, it will take around 7 days until your body has built up sufficient immunity to protect you. 

Everyone who gets their 1st dose is guaranteed to also receive the 2nd dose within the required time frame. This time frame may vary between first and second dose, depending on the vaccine: BioNTech/Pfizer 3-6 weeks, Moderna 3-6 weeks, Novavax (Nuvaxovid) 3-6 weeks, AstraZeneca (Vaxzevria) 4-8 weeks, and Johnson & Johnson /Janssen) 4-8 weeks. The 2nd dose, too, requires you to fill out the vaccination form, so that potential changes or comments since the 1st dose can be made.

Mix-and-match vaccines, meaning switching from one vaccine to another between shots, is an off-label application. This means that there is no official approval for this yet. The reason for this is that legal processes behind this special application may take longer than the medical knowledge about the vaccine is expanding.

It is recommended that everyone over 5 years of age get a 3rd dose 6 months after their first two doses. Please note that children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a legal guardian. A shorter interval between the 2nd and 3rd dose is possible upon request, if there is a medical indication or epidemiological reasons (i.e. travel to high-incidence areas) etc. and can be administered as early as four months after the 2nd dose and after a relevant consultation and documentation (off-label). Please note that the attending physician will be in charge of deciding whether the 3rd dose should be administered, especially if it is to be administered sooner than 4 months after the initial vaccination regime. Please note that after completing your basic immunisation, it is recommended that persons 12 years and older get a booster shot (4th dose).

If the recommended date for your “booster shot” (3rd dose) takes place during a pregnancy, it is recommended to get the vaccination in the 2nd trimester (as of 14 weeks of pregnancy). As for all COVID-19 vaccinations during pregnancy, the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine will be administered (off-label). 

You can get an appointment for your 4th dose of the vaccination at your local doctor’s office. Please contact one of the doctors from the list of COVID-19 vaccination practices. Of course, you may also book an appointment for a consultation about your 4th dose via Impfservice Wien or via telephone by calling 1450. More appointments for the 4th dose in the vaccination centres of the City of Vienna will be published after the Easter holidays. 

A 3rd dose or booster shot with the Covid-19 vaccine Valneva is currently not approved and is not recommended by the National Vaccination Board (version 10.3, accessed: 10 August 2022). Depending on the individual situation (i.e. after side effects from a vaccine or allergic reactions to mRNA vaccines) the Covid-19 vaccine Valneva may be administered after considering potential counter-indications (off-label). Please discuss this with the physician in charge of your vaccination. Please note that naturally, the attending physician will be responsible and thus make the final decision about the choice of vaccine. 

Yes, even if you’ve already been infected, you should still get vaccinated once you have recovered. It is recommended that you get one dose of your vaccination approx. four weeks after your infection (amended by National Vaccination Board dated 5 July 2021). 

It can be assumed in such a chase that your existing immunity will be boostered with the vaccine and your protection thus prolonged. Aside from the medical/immunological assessment, two vaccines may be required for international travel and when entering another country. In such cases, a second dose may be administered for formal reasons. When receiving a second dose, an increased rate of vaccine reaction in persons who have recovered from an infection cannot be ruled out.

It is recommended that persons at high risk, especially persons 18 years and older with compromised immune systems as well as persons 60 years and older (according to the recommendation by the National Vaccination Board) who have already received their basic immunisation consisting of 3 shots, plus one booster shot (4th dose), get another booster shot (5th dose) before the cold season, but with a four-month waiting period (six months for persons at high risk aged 12 to 17 years, or subject to individual assessment) between the 4th and the 5th dose. This should provide optimal protection during the cold season and the expected new wave of infections. If you have any questions about the Covid vaccine and prefer a personal consultation appointment, you can book a date online or via telephone by calling 1450.

Yes, according to the recommendations by the National Vaccination Board, persons under 60 years of age can postpone their next vaccination for up to six months. Persons over 60 and persons belonging to risk groups (of any age) may, however, be vaccinated even sooner than six months after recovering from the infection or testing negative for the virus (- first negative PCR test). Please note that the final decision on whether you get vaccinated is always taken by the attending physician following your pre-vaccination briefing.

The coronavirus vaccination is available for all infants between six months and four years of age, especially if they attend nursery schools or other day care facilities. After consideration of the individual situation and surroundings, it may be advisable to get a vaccination.

The vaccination is recommended to

• Infants and toddlers from six months to four years of age who have an increased risk at a severe progression of Covid-19.
• Children five years and older

Children must be accompanied by a legal guardian. Please note that the final decision on whether your child will receive the Covid vaccination is with the attending physician.

Please consult with your paediatrician for any questions you might have. If you have booked a vaccination appointment for your child, there will of course be medical staff on site to answer your question.

The Comirnaty (BioNTech/Pfizer) vaccine will be used exclusively, no other vaccines are provided. 

Yes.

• The dosage for infants and toddlers between six months and five years of age is 3 micrograms. This corresponds to a tenth of the regular dosage for adults.
• The dosage for children between five and eleven years of age is 10 micrograms. This corresponds to a third of the regular dose for adults.

The vaccine is administered via injection into the muscle of the upper arm or thigh.

Yes. Please book any follow-up appointments via telephone (call 1450) or via this website. If you do not book an appointment, you will be assigned one automatically (for 21 days after your first appointment) via email.

The completion of basic immunisation (3rd dose) for children as of 5 years of age is recommended six months after their 2nd dose. In line with approval regulations, a bivalent mRNA vaccine is recommended for the 3rd dose for children as of 5 years of age.

Infants and toddlers between six months and five years of age receive the first two doses within three weeks (21 days). The third dose is recommended at least eight weeks (56 days) after the second dose.

Yes. Protection usually lasts longer and is more extensive if the vaccination is administered after recovery than the protection gained from only recovering.

The vaccines are administered by special trained medical staff in a separate area specially designed for babies and toddlers at Austria Center Vienna (Donau-City-Straße 1, 1220 Vienna).

You can book via telephone (call 1450) or via this website. You can also take your child to get vaccinated without an appointment, at a walk-in vaccination site or a vaccination box.

It is recommended to refrain from exercise for four days (no PE at school, no gymnastics at day care, no sports clubs). Competitive sports should be avoided for seven days.

• Registration confirmation (ticket)
• Photo ID (passport, personal ID, driver’s license,)
• E-card
• Vaccination certificate (if you have one)
• Consent form (if applicable/necessary)
• FFP2 mask

Care-Free Vaccination is a programme offered by the City of Vienna. It is dedicated to people who are afraid of or concerned about the vaccination. The Care-Free Vaccination programme consists of two parts:

• The Coronavirus Helpline Vienna. The number is 01 4000 53000
  You can get consultation and support via phone here. You can make a vaccination appointment there.
• The Vaccination Salon
  This is a special place for getting vaccinated. Selected experts work there.

• Everyone who feels exhausted by the pandemic, everyone who needs help, and everyone who simply needs someone to talk to may call the Coronavirus Helpline Vienna (01 4000 53000). For anyone who is especially worried or scared when it comes to getting vaccinated, the staff of the Coronavirus Helpline now have a new special offer.
• The basic rules are:
  Anyone can call the hotline at any time.
  Together with our staff, you can figure out: Which is the best option for you?

Are you afraid or concerned because of the vaccination?
Call the Coronavirus Helpline Vienna!
The number is 01 4000 53000.
Our staff don’t just know about vaccines.
They can help you with any problems you might have.
They will listen and answer your questions.
You’d like to talk about the vaccination?
You will receive excellent advice.
Our staff will help you make a plan for your vaccination.
The Vaccination Salon is a special place for getting vaccinated.
Specially selected employees will be there and take a lot of time for their visitors.
The vaccination salon is not a regular doctor’s office or the like.
When it was established, great care was taken to consider the needs of people who have difficulties or are scared of getting vaccinated.
In special cases, you can also receive the coronavirus vaccination from the comfort of your home.
For example if you are unable to get vaccinated at the Vaccination Salon.
You can discuss this with the staff of our Coronavirus Helpline Vienna.

• It is dedicated to people who are afraid of or concerned about the coronavirus vaccination.

This may include people with a fear of needles, injections or vaccinations.

• But also people who are uncomfortable going to a doctor.
• Some people are especially concerned that getting vaccinated might cause problems or disadvantages for them.

For example, problems with their friends, their family, or their employer. Or they are afraid of reactions to the vaccine, or of pain. These people can get support through extensive counselling.

The Vaccination Salon is at Thomas-Klestil-Platz.
The address is: Thomas-Klestil-Platz 8/ 2– entrance 9, 1030 Vienna.
Before you visit the Vaccination Salon, you should make an appointment.
For this, you can call the Coronavirus Helpline Vienna.
The number is 01 4000 53000.
Our staff will then tell you when you can come. That way, you don’t have to wait.
Specially selected employees will be there and take a lot of time for their visitors.

You can register through the Coronavirus Helpline Vienna. The number is 01 4000 53000. You can call Monday through Sunday between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm. This is what our staff will discuss with you: Which type of vaccination offer is suitable for you? Our staff will answer all your questions. They will let you know how the vaccination works. They will take care of your vaccination appointment. They will also take care of all follow-up appointments and will stay in touch with you throughout. If you want.

The Care-Free Vaccination programme is available under the same conditions as the regular vaccination programme of the City of Vienna. Find more information on this here: https://impfservice.wien/corona/

Yes. People with impaired mobility will have easy access. For example, persons in a wheelchair or with a walking aid. There is a guidance system for people with visual impairments. We have staff at the Vaccination Salon to offer additional support.

It is nobody’s business but yours which health care services you use. You do have to register with your name, so that the vaccine can be recorded in your (electronic) vaccination certificate, but this information is not forwarded to anyone, nor is it recorded anywhere else.

If contact to other people makes you uncomfortable, you can simply let our staff know when you call for your appointment on the Coronavirus Helpline Vienna. Those who must be present for the vaccination will then make sure to reduce their interactions with you to the utmost minimum.

The Vaccination Salon is large space. It was specially designed to not trigger any fears. Are you still worried or scared? Talk to our staff at the Coronavirus Helpline Vienna. The number is 01 4000 53000. Our staff will advise you on which offer is suitable for you.

Yes, children may visit, too. Experienced staff will be at their disposal. The Vaccination Salon is equipped for children. Everyone for whom there are approved vaccines available in Austria can get vaccinated at the Vaccination Salon. More information is available at: https://impfservice.wien/corona/

It is nobody’s business but yours which health care services you use. But you do need to submit your name when you register for a vaccination. This is necessary so that your vaccination certificate can be updated. However, this information will not be forwarded to anyone. Nor will it be written down anywhere.

You are very welcome to bring someone with you to your appointment. At the Vaccination Salon, we take enough time for you and the person who might accompany you. You can get used to the space and discuss any open questions you might have.

At the Vaccination Salon, we administer the BioNtech/Pfizer vaccine. It is called Comirnaty. It is the most commonly used coronavirus vaccination in Austria.

Would you rather get a different vaccine? This is possible if your desired vaccine is available on the day of your appointment. Please discuss this option when you call the Coronavirus Helpline.

The Vaccination Salon is very friendly place. Here, we will cater to the specific personal needs of our visitors. There’s no time pressure. There is enough time for detailed discussions with experts. They will answer general questions about the coronavirus vaccination. They will also discuss if and when you should get vaccinated. They will make suggestions: How can we make sure that you can be calm and relaxed during your vaccination? The staff of the Helpline will stay in touch with you after your vaccination if you would like that: Until your next vaccination appointment. And also beyond that. If you want. You are not alone. The City of Vienna is here for you.

On 09 March 2022, the compulsory vaccination was suspended until further notice. Please contact the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection for further information.

The vaccination is confirmed in your vaccination certificate (Impfpass) by means of a stamp and, electronically, in the e-vaccination certificate. Selected test centres and vaccination centres will also provide you with a printout of your COVID-19 recovery certificate or proof of vaccination.

Please bring the yellow vaccination certificate (Impfpass) with you for the Covid vaccination if you already have one. It is the only valid international vaccination document to date.

No. You cannot opt out of the e-vaccination certificate. The Health Telematics Act 2012 defines the use of the e-vaccination passport as a significant public interest. The purpose is to have an Austria-wide vaccination register to be able to observe the incidence of infection and the immunisation rate.

No. There is no connection between an ELGA de-registration and the e-vaccination passport. Your vaccination is automatically entered into the e-vaccination passport.

Please go to the vaccination centre where you were vaccinated, and have them add the vaccination to your certificate. Bring your booking confirmation and a printout of your electronic vaccination certificate, or the vaccination card that documents your vaccination.

Vaccination certificate printouts can be picked up in selected testing and vaccination centres during opening hours.

Test centres (by district):

• 10., Therme Wien (Kurbadstraße 14)
• 15., Stadthalle (Roland-Rainer-Platz 1)
• 22., Austria Center Vienna (Bruno-Kreisky-Platz)

Vaccination centres operated by MA15 – Vienna Public Health Services (by district):

• 3., TownTown, Thomas-Klestil-Platz 8/2*
• 12., Am Schöpfwerk 29/11/R10
• 15., Gasgasse 8-10 (Eingang: Staglgasse 5a)

Alternatively, your proof of vaccination can also be printed out by physicians in private practice, at customer service centres of the Austrian Public Health Insurance (ÖGK), or at ELGA ombuds offices.

*The vaccination service at TownTown will be closed from Friday, 4 March 2022 to Monday, 7 March 2022! The vaccination centre will re-open for you on Tuesday, 8 March 2022.

Persons, who were vaccinated against coronavirus in Austria, are issued with a vaccination certificate (Green Pass), which is in line with the EU Digital Covid Certificate. The certificate can be downloaded via the electronic vaccination certificate (access via gesundheit.gv.at). You need a mobile phone signature or citizen card (Bürgerkarte) to download your certificate. Once you have downloaded and saved the certificate, you can use it as proof that you were vaccinated against coronavirus as long as your vaccination is valid. You can download the certificate as often as you like.

Yes. To make sure access to vaccination certificates is as simple and easy as possible, everyone who has received full immunisation against Covid-19 by the end of June 2021 gets a vaccination certificate by post.

If you have previously registered and performed a Covid-19 test in any test centre in Vienna, and therefore use Homecare, you will automatically receive a text message (SMS) as soon as your proof of vaccination has been created by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Health. You can then retrieve your vaccination certificate via the web link provided in the text message, using your 12-digit access PIN for the Homecare app. If you no longer have this PIN, you need to go to one of the test centres in Vienna.

If you notice your vaccination certificate contains incorrect information, please call the AGES helpline at 0800 555 621.

If you have lost your vaccination certificate, you must file a notice of loss. Only once your data has been reviewed can you get a new vaccination certificate with a duplicate stamp. Since your vaccination certificate is an official document (just like your driver’s license for example), a notice of loss is necessary. You can apply for the issuing of a new vaccination certificate at the vaccination centre where you received your vaccination.  

You need to bring the following documents: 

• official photo ID 
• e-card  
• excerpt of your electronic vaccination passport (which you can get free of charge at any pharmacy)

You can receive a certificate confirming your recovery for up to six months after your infection if the infection was confirmed via PCR test. If you have been infected within this six-month period and you were tested at one of the Vienna test centres, you will automatically receive a text message with a link. You can access your recovery certificate from there with your 12-digit PIN code. If you were infected more than six months ago, you can no longer obtain a recovery certificate and you should get vaccinated.  

However, you can still present existing proofs, such as quarantine order, a doctor’s report confirming a past infection with SARS-CoV-2 within the last six months, or a positive test confirming neutralising antibodies. Even if those were not used to issue a recovery certificate. 

The recovery certificate is valid for a period of up to six months after your recovery.  

The vaccination certificate is currently valid for 6 months (180 days) from your first vaccination regime (consisting of 2 Covid vaccinations). However, your protection will decrease over time, thus increasing the risk of getting infected with COVID-19. The National Vaccination Board therefore recommends a booster shot 6 months (180) after your second dose. It is the only way to reduce the high risk of a severe progression of the disease caused by COVID-19 if you get infected, and it contributes to the containment of the pandemic.  

If you have received your basic immunisation (3rd dose), you can update your vaccination status by getting a free print-out of your vaccination certificate at local pharmacies or doctor’s nurseries, or at the customer service centre of the Austrian Health Insurance Company. You can also update your vaccination certificate via the Green Pass App. 

This is how the app works: 
Download the app from iOS App Store or Google Play Store. Scan the QR code from your certificate or add the pdf via the share-menu in the app. This way, you’ll always have your vaccination certificate with you, even if you don’t have internet access.

On 11 September 2022, the transition period for vaccination certificates of people who are vaccinated and recovered ends. Recovery is removed from the vaccination certificate and only the administered vaccinations will be displayed. Anyone with a vaccination certificate for vaccinated and recovered persons (1/1, 2/1, 3/1, …), will receive a regular vaccination certificate showing the administered doses. The certificates for vaccinated and recovered persons will remained valid during the transition period.

• The first vaccination regime with 2 doses (certificate 2/2 or 2/1 if you were vaccinated with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine) is valid for 180 days after the 2nd dose. The validity of vaccination certificates for children and youths between 12 and 17 years of age is 210 days (7 months). For entering Austria, these vaccination certificates and other proofs of vaccination remain valid for 270 days.
• The vaccination certificate after the 3rd dose (certificate 3/ 3 or 3/1 if you were vaccinated with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine) is valid for 365 days after the 3rd dose.
• The vaccination certificate after the 4th dose (certificate 4/4 or 4/1 if you were vaccinated with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine) is valid for 365 days after the last dose.

The vaccination certificate is currently valid for 6 months (180 days) from your first vaccination regime (consisting of 2 Covid vaccinations). However, your protection will decrease over time, thus increasing the risk of getting infected with COVID-19. The National Vaccination Board therefore recommends a booster shot 6 months (180) after your second dose. It is the only way to reduce the high risk of a severe progression of the disease caused by COVID-19 if you get infected, and it contributes to the containment of the pandemic.  

If you have received your basic immunisation (3rd dose), you can update your vaccination status by getting a free print-out of your vaccination certificate at local pharmacies or doctor’s nurseries, or at the customer service centre of the Austrian Health Insurance Company. You can also update your vaccination certificate via the Green Pass App. 

This is how the app works:
Download the app from iOS App Store or Google Play Store. Scan the QR code from your certificate or add the pdf via the share-menu in the app. This way, you’ll always have your vaccination certificate with you, even if you don’t have internet access.

Please consult your local physician about possible appointments. If they have registered to become part of the Corona vaccination programme, you can book an appointment with them.

The Covid vaccination is free for everyone who has health insurance and everyone who is insured with KFA Wien, as well as their eligible dependents. The same applies to insurance with ÖGK, BVAEB, and SVS.

If you do not have health insurance, your physician will invoice a vaccination fee. Your doctor can tell you about how much the fee will be.

Doctors in private practice currently administer the BioNTech/Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.

Please bring your ID and, if you have one, your e-card and your vaccination certificate (Impfpass) to your appointment.

The Covid vaccination is free of charge.

Once you have registered online, you can book your personal vaccination appointment for your individual population group or rage group.

You can download the vaccination form for the Covid vaccination here. The vaccination form will also be sent to you via email in PDF format once you have made your appointment to get vaccinated. Ideally, you should bring the completed form with you for your vaccination appointment. If not, the forms will also be available on site for you to fill out. Please bring the completed form with you to your appointment. This helps us reduce waiting times.

Just like numerous other vaccinations, the Covid vaccination, too, is administered into the muscle of the upper arm.

Please make a new appointment online . You can also go to one of the sites that offer vaccination without appointment.

There is no need to worry, as long as the first shot does not date back too many weeks. Do make sure you get your booster shot, as you are not sufficiently protected after only one vaccination. Please call 1450 or book a new a new appointment online .

In Austria, the following vaccines are currently being administered: BioNTech/Pfizer, Moderna, Janssen (Johnson&Johnson), and Novavax (Nuvaxovid). These vaccines will be administered as quickly as possible, depending on availability, medical recommendation, and age specifications.

You will start developing antibodies after the first dose and protection will set in three weeks after. But for full, sustainable protection, the second dose as well as a third dose after a specified time is required. After the second dose, it will take around 7 days until your body has built up sufficient immunity to protect you from an infection. For the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, the National Vaccination Board also recommends that you get a second vaccine. Please note that the second dose should be an mRNA vaccine (BioNTech/Pfizer, Moderna). Upon explicit request, it is also possible to receive another dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine as a second dose. You should wait at least 2 months after your first dose of Johnson & Johnson before getting the second one.

When booking a vaccination appointment in your age group, you can select the vaccine you want. However, if you just show up at one of the vaccination boxes to get the vaccine without prior appointment, you cannot request a particular vaccine. Please note that the vaccine used depends on the availability and location where you get vaccinated. This means that you can only request a particular vaccine in exceptional cases.

An RNA or mRNA vaccines is based on special messenger molecules, the so-called ribonucleic acids (RNA). The injected messenger molecule contains the genetic code for a protein element against the coronavirus. After injection, the body will produce this protein element on its own and thus trigger a tailored immune response. This way, the immune system learns to produce antibodies that can attack the coronavirus immediately if an infection occurs, and they can keep it from reproducing in our bodies. After a short time, the injected RNA will be completely broken down by our bodies.

Even though only a short period of time passed between the first emergence of the coronavirus and the availability of effective vaccines, all requirements were met and the quality, type and extent of regulatory inspections and assessments were never compromised. All COVID-19 vaccines are developed in extensive studies and tested with several tens of thousands of participants for their safety and efficacy

No severe, unintended or even life-threatening side effects were observed during the clinical trials held worldwide for all Covid vaccines. After getting vaccinated, there may be a feeling of heat, swelling or pressure pain at the injection site. Reactions at the injection site are relatively common and occur in 8 out of 10 persons. This side effect may be inconvenient, but it is completely harmless and will disappear after a few days. However, if side effects persist or if you experience new side effects (such as dizziness, persistent headaches, blurred vision, shortness of breath, arm or leg pain, etc.) you should seek immediate medical attention for symptoms of thromboembolic events. The vaccine may be associated with undesired side effects such as very rare cases of blood clots but this does not affect the authorisation for use by EMA (European Medicines Agency) as the benefits of the vaccine in combating the threat of Covid-19 outweigh the risk of side effects. In any case, we advise you to monitor your health status after your vaccine.

Yes, you could take paracetamol for example. This will not have an impact on the effect of the vaccine.

Covid vaccines, like all vaccinations that are strongly encouraged by national regulations for purposes of personal and general interest, are covered by the Act on Indemnification for vaccination-induced disabilities. This means that in case of potential vaccine damage, even if no one is at fault, you will receive indemnification from the Republic of Austria.

In most persons who were vaccinated, a sufficient number of antibodies was still detected 90 days after the vaccination. It is assumed that the effect will be longer than that, though this is not yet scientifically proven as the observation period is not yet long enough. Considering the new epidemiological situation caused by the Delta variant, it is recommended that you get a booster shot (depending on vulnerability 6 to 9 months or 9 to 12 months) after your full immunisation.

After around 7 days, protection is provided.

The Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca) vaccine, just like all other COVID-19 vaccines, was tested extensively before it entered the market. Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca) is not associated with a rise in the overall risk for blood clots (thromboembolic conditions). Moreover, the symptoms in case of a blood clot can be treated very well if detected in time; the vaccine is effective and well suited to prevent severe progressions of COVID-19. If side effects persist or occur (such as dizziness, headaches, vision impairment, shortness of breath, pain in arms or legs etc.), please consult a doctor to rule out thrombosis. National expert committees have spoken in favour of the use of the Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca) vaccine as its effectiveness is clearly documented and it thus saves lives every day.
Please note that the AstraZeneca vaccine is no longer available in Austria since 1 December 2021, and will also not be reordered.

If severe side effects have occurred after the first dose that justify the use of a different vaccine or if this is desirable according to the person to be vaccinated, then after taking into account a relevant medical consultation, the use of a different vaccine for the next dose, considered off-label use, is possible. Medical certificates to that effect are no longer necessary, however, the ultimate responsibility lies with the consulting physician. 

On 29 September 2021, the National Vaccination Board has issued a recommendation for a second dose after receiving the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine, to be administered 4-8 weeks after the first dose (off label) in order to increase protection. For the second dose, the use of an mRNA vaccine (BioNTech/Pfizer, Moderna) is recommended. Upon explicit request, it is also possible to receive another dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine as a second dose. You should wait at least 2 months after your first dose of Johnson & Johnson before getting the second one. Please note that naturally, the attending physician will be responsible for this decision. If you receive another dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, it will be documented as “2. Dosis” (D2). A vaccination certificate 2/2 will be issued, which (as of 1 February 2022) will be valid for 180 days after the 2nd dose.

(Novavax´s) Nuvaxovid is a vaccine to prevent the occurrence of a coronavirus infection 2019 (COVID-19) for persons as of 18 years of age. It consists of a protein-based, recombinant vaccine with an adjuvant, which is administered for basic immunisation in two doses.

For basic immunisation the vaccine Nuvaxovid will be administered in two doses, with three weeks between the first and the second dose (16-45 days), and it is approved for persons as of 18 years of age. It is usually injected intramuscular into the upper arm.

Nuvaxovid is effective by preparing the body to defend itself against a COVID-19 infection. It contains a lab-produced version of the spike protein. It also contains an “adjuvant”, a substance that contributes to enhancing your body’s immune response to the vaccine. Once the vaccine is administered, your immune system will recognise the protein contained in it as something “foreign” and thus produce natural defences – antibodies and t-cells – to fight it. If you come into contact with SARS-CoV-2 after getting vaccinated, your immune system will recognise the spike protein in the virus and will be prepared to fend off the virus. Your antibodies and immune cells can protect you from COVID-19 by working together to kill the virus, by preventing it from entering your cells, and by destroying infected cells.

Nuvaxovid is available for all persons aged 12 years and older.

It is perfectly normal to experience certain side effects after getting vaccinated. This shows that your body is reacting to the vaccine and producing antibodies. Usually, side effects are mild and go away on their own after a few days. They include headaches, nausea or vomiting, muscle or joint pains, sensitivity or pain at the injection site, fatigue, and discomfort. These side effects occur in 1 out of 10 vaccinated persons. Redness and swelling at the injection site, fever, shivers, and joint pains occurred in fewer than 1 out of ten vaccinated persons. Enlarged lymph nodes, high blood pressure, skin rashes, reddening of the skin, itching at the injection site and itchy rashes were recorded as occasional side effects (occurring in fewer than 1 out of 100 persons).

At the moment, the vaccine is mostly used for primary immunisations (1st dose) and for persons with contraindications or restrictions of use for other approved vaccines.

Everyone from the age of 12 years can get an adapted (bivalent) vaccine for their basic immunisation (3 doses) as well as for their booster vaccination (off-label). Children between 5 and 11 years of age can get the bivalent vaccines by BioNTech/Pfizer (BA4/BA5) for their basic immunisation (3 doses). Please note that a 4^th dose is currently not recommended for children between 5 and 11 years of age.  

• Bivalent mRNA vaccines are expressly recommended for booster shots (4^th dose). 
• Both monovalent (original) and bivalent mRNA vaccines have been approved as a 3^rd dose. According to data published so far, getting a different vaccine than for your previous doses seems to have benefits rather than disadvantages.  

Please note that the adapted (bivalent) vaccine by Moderna is only recommended for persons from 30 years of age. 

Two pharmaceutical companies, Moderna and BionTech/Pfizer, have developed vaccines that are specially adapted to the new challenges posed by the Omikron variant BA.1 or Omikron BA.4/BA.5. These adapted vaccines by Moderna and BionTech/Pfizer are known as “bivalent” vaccines, given that they contain half the amount of both the original vaccine and the new vaccine adapted to the BA.1 or BA.4-5 variant of SARS-CoV-2. The mix is designed to protect you from both the original coronavirus and new variants of the virus, particularly BA.1 or BA 4-5.  

The following bivalent vaccines have been approved for persons from 12 years of age, and are already administered in parts of Austria:  

• Comirnaty Original/Omicron BA.1 for people from 12 years of age  
• Spikevax Bivalent Original/Omicron BA.1 for people from 30 years of age
• Spikevax Bivalent Original/Omicron BA.4.5 for people from 30 years of age
• Comirnaty Original/Omicron BA.4-5 (15/15 micrograms per dose) for persons from 12 years of age  
• Comirnaty Original/Omicron BA.4-5 (5/5 micrograms per dose) for children from 5 to 11 years of age

Clinical studies have shown that adapted (bivalent) vaccines provide good protection, in particular from a severe course, or progression, of the disease if you have been infected with other variants of SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, do not wait for other adapted vaccines to complete your basic immunisation or if you need your 3rd dose or booster vaccination (4th dose).

No. The vaccine itself does not contain the virus but merely a blueprint for the production of a protein against which the body will build up antibodies.

The vaccines in use will protect you very well from potential severe progressions of COVID-19. This means that those who get vaccinated will not get infected at all or, if so, will only have a mild progression. It has not yet been medically clarified whether the vaccine also stops transmission, however, a growing body of evidence suggests that Covid-19 vaccines may also reduce transmission

Yes! The mask is to protect yourself, but most of all, those around you. Viruses can be inhaled and spread through breathing air.

Yes, neither exercise nor visiting a sauna will impact the effectiveness of the vaccine. But do avoid high-intensity training for the first 2 to 3 days. If you are feeling under the weather after you received your shot, it is better not to exercise. If you do weight training, the injection site might hurt.

Please avoid excessive alcohol consumption for the first few days after receiving the vaccine.

No, in such a case it is essential that you consult your doctor first. If you take so-called immuno-suppressants or corticosteroids, unintended interactions need to be investigated by a doctor before a potential vaccination.

According to the recommendation of the National Vaccination Board, the COVID-19 vaccines currently approved are to be classified in the same way as inactivated vaccines. Therefore it is not strictly necessary to allow time between them and other vaccinations. You should wait for 14 days before or after scheduled surgery, but urgent surgeries can be performed at any time.

Further information is available here: https://www.aekwien.at/web/wien/faq-covid-impfung

No, please cancel your appointment by calling 1450  so that someone else may take your place. Make a new appointment for at least three weeks after your illness by calling 1450.

If the maximum recommended vaccination intervals are exceeded, the relevant vaccination should be repeated as soon as possible (off-label). Exception: If an interval of 6 months was exceeded between the 1st and 2nd vaccination. In this case, the 2nd dose is to be regarded as the 1st dose and vaccination should be continued, even after vaccination with Jcovden (Johnson & Johnson). Otherwise, there is no evidence that such an extension of the vaccination interval leads to limited protection after the second or further vaccinations. The person must be informed about such off-label vaccination. If the recommended interval between the 2nd and 3rd vaccination has been exceeded, the 3rd dose should be given as soon as possible; it is not necessary to restart the vaccination series.

Yes, you can still get vaccinated. There is no indication that mRNA vaccines or their components are passed into the breastmilk. Vector vaccines do not bear this risk either. On the contrary, the positive effects of breastfeeding are well documented. It is therefore also not recommended to stop breastfeeding after you got vaccinated.

You can get your Covid vaccination from the 15th week of pregnancy. If you have been vaccinated earlier on during your pregnancy because you did not yet know that you were pregnant, please note that this is no reason to cancel your second vaccination appointment (booster shot) with BioNTech/Pfizer, even if AstraZeneca was used for your first vaccination

If you cannot make your scheduled vaccination appointment because you in hospital or having your baby at this very time, you can change your appointment by calling the hotline 1450 or changing the settings in your online account at impfservice.wien.

Yes, everyone who gets their first vaccination will be fully immunised.

The mRNA vaccine by Biontech/Pfizer should be used during pregnancy because this vaccine has been researched most extensively for this specific group. The mRNA vaccine by Moderna may also be used.

In general, no different or more severe vaccination reactions have been observed during pregnancy than in non-pregnant persons. You may feel pain, redness or swelling in the arm where you were vaccinated. Fatigue, headache, muscle or joint pain, swelling of the lymph nodes, nausea/vomiting, chills or fever may also occur very frequently. These symptoms usually disappear within 48 days after the vaccination.

During your pregnancy, contact the maternity clinic immediately if you run a fever >of more than 39°C or if your body temperature >remains above 37.2°C for more than 48 hours, but also if you notice reduced fetal movements, vaginal bleeding, suspected preterm labour or rupture of the membranes (“breaking the waters”). Is there any medication I can take for side effects during pregnancy? As long as you do not suffer from drug intolerance or allergies, you can take 1000mg paracetamol up to 3 times a day for pain and high temperature. It is also fine to take metoclopramide for nausea/vomiting up to 3 times a day during your pregnancy.

The drug approval studies did not provide specific data on pregnant persons, but by now 70,000 persons vaccinated during pregnancy have been recorded in the US vaccination safety register V-Safe. No relevant safety risks were observed after they received an mRNA vaccine (BioNTech/Pfizer or Moderna).

As long as you do not suffer from drug intolerance or allergies, you can take 1000 mg paracetamol up to 3 times a day for pain and high temperature. It is also fine to take metoclopramide for nausea/vomiting up to 3 times a day during your pregnancy. The informing physician on site will again provide expert advice on this topic before you are vaccinated.

The National Vaccination Board (NIG) recommends that you get vaccinated (with the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine) as soon as possible (approx. 6-8 weeks post-partum). 

YES, numerous studies, registers of pregnant persons, and experience with thousands of pregnant persons has shown that there is no difference regarding side effects compared to people who are not pregnant.

NO, the vaccine contains a protein that corresponds to a part of the coronavirus (“spike protein”). The body recognises this part as “foreign”. It then starts producing antibodies that will attack the virus in case of an infection with COVID-19 and render it harmless as much as possible. The antibodies can reach your child through the umbilical cord and thus also protect your child. The protein is broken down completely within a few days from the vaccination; the vaccine is not transferred from the parent to the unborn child.

NO, our body breaks down the vaccine within only a few days; only the antibodies remain which will protect us against the coronavirus.

No medication is primarily used on pregnant persons, as application data from non-pregnant persons is prioritised. For this reason, vaccines are usually not approved for pregnant persons until years later. However, many people are not aware that they are pregnant and thus get vaccinated in the early stages of pregnancy. The observation of this data allows conclusions on whether vaccines are safe for foetuses or not. In the case of the Covid vaccination, more than 8 billion people were vaccinated within only one year, among them many thousand pregnant persons; no differences were observed in the state of health of the newborns whose parents were vaccinated compared to those who were not.

NO, studies have shown that there is no difference in the occurrence of miscarriages between vaccinated and unvaccinated persons.

NO But studies have shown that if a pregnant person gets infected with COVID-19, the risk of a stillbirth doubles.

Most complications during pregnancy, such as bleeding/miscarrying occur before the 14th week of pregnancy. In general, more than 20% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. Therefore, if a pregnant person were to get vaccinated during that time, a causal connection would arise between the vaccination and the miscarriage, even though there are currently no studies that substantiate these concerns. To avoid this misconception, any vaccinations are usually recommended only as of the second trimester. For this reason, the Austrian Society for Gynaecology and Obstetrics has decided to recommend this vaccination, too, to be administered as of the 14th week of pregnancy.

With Moderna, a rare complication (myocarditis) has been shown in young people, which only very rarely occurred after the Pfizer vaccine. For this reason, Pfizer is usually considered the first choice for persons under 30 years of age.

NO, the vaccine does not pass over into the breastmilk, however, the antibodies produced by the parent do and thus provide passive immunoprotection for your baby. 

The Covid vaccination is administered to pregnant persons as of their 14th week of pregnancy. If you have been vaccinated before said date because you had not been aware of your pregnancy yet, you can still get your 2nd dose with a BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine, even if your 1st dose has been AstraZeneca.

Only if you have consulted your physician beforehand. In many cases, you will still be able to get vaccinated. But it is essential to consult a doctor first.

Please consult your physician before getting vaccinated. In most cases, you will still be able to get vaccinated without any risk. To avoid haematoma, you should apply pressure (not rub) firmly, for 3 to 5 minutes, to your injection site.

Please inform your doctor about any potential allergies and bring your allergy pass with you to your vaccination appointment. In most cases, it will be possible to get vaccinated. Only people suffering from multiple allergies with unknown allergy inducers or people who have suffered from immediate allergies after receiving a vaccination should not get vaccinated. The informing physician on site will ask you about your allergies again and provide expert advice before you are vaccinated.

Of course, you can bring somebody to help you. The person accompanying you can also be vaccinated themselves if they want to.

Please start by asking relatives or friends if they can take you to a vaccination site. If this is not possible, a transport service or patient transport is available. You have to apply for either option at your general practitioner’s practice (family doctor). 

You must cover the cost for the transport service yourself and also organise your appointment yourself. In case of absolutely imperative medical reasons, the costs for this transport may be covered by your insurance if you submit the relevant permit notice afterwards. 

You must also organise the patient transport yourself. If you have a transport permit from your general practitioner (family doctor), your insurance will cover the cost of the transport. If you do not have valid insurance, or if you have not received a transport permit, you can still request a transport, however, you must cover the costs yourself. 

If you have received a permit, you can either call 1450 to make a vaccination appointment, or you can go to a walk-in vaccination site to get your vaccination there.

Please hand your vaccination form to your legal guardian. On the back of the form, there is a consent statement that your legal guardian needs to sign. You may answer the questions about your health on the front of the form (medical history) yourself. Your legal guardian should also sign the second vaccination form for your booster shot right away. Please do not fill out the questions about your health (medical history) on the second form until shortly before your appointment for your booster shot, as it is possible that some things may change between your first and second dose.

You can file a request by calling 1450. Your call will not yet get you a booked appointment. You may not file a written request.

After filing your request by calling 1450, you will receive a call back within 14 days to schedule your appointment. As the requests need to be evaluated individually, this can take up to two weeks.

To process your request, we need the following personal data:

• First and last name
• Date of birth
• Social insurance number
• Address (street name, unit, floor, door number, postcode)
• Phone number & email address if available
• Description of why a mobile vaccination unit is needed
• Date of previous Covid vaccinations & the vaccine that was administered

Please prepare the following documents before your doctor arrives:

• Official photo ID (personal ID, passport, driving license, etc.)
• E-card (if you have one)
• Vaccination certificate

The following vaccines are available:

• Comirnaty – Pfizer BioNtech
• Spikevax – Moderna
• Nuvaxoid – Novavax

All doses and boosters are available.

Yes, it is possible to register several persons for an at-home vaccination appointment. All registered persons must fulfil the relevant conditions.

Diphtheria is an infectious disease of the upper respiratory tract (throat, pharynx, nose). Symptoms include a membrane forming that covers the throat and leads to coughing and hoarseness as well as difficulty breathing. The responsible bacteria emit a toxin that may damage important organs. Inflammation of the heart muscle and neuroparalysis may lead to heart failure and respiratory paralysis, and even death.

Diphtheria is transmitted among humans via droplet infection, for instance by sneezing or coughing. The time from the point of infection to the experience of first symptoms is usually between 2 and 5 days.

Treatments are antibiotics and an antitoxin. Out of 20 people infected with diphtheria, 1 to 4 will die even today.

The vaccine for diphtheria has been successfully proven for a long time; it is well tolerated and very safe. The protection rate is almost 100%.

The vaccine currently in use for infants and toddlers is called “Hexyon”. For toddlers: Infanrix (hexa), Hexavac (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio, Pertussis, Hepatitis B, and HiB).

• i.e. Revaxis (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio)
• Repevax (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio, and Pertussis)
• Boostrix Polio (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio, and Pertussis)
• Boostrix (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis)
• dTPur (Diphtheria and Tetanus)
• For toddlers: Infanrix hexa, Hexavac, Hexyon (all are Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio, Pertussis, Hepatitis B, and HiB).

The diphtheria vaccine is only available as a combined vaccine. It is administered at the same time as the vaccines against tetanus, pertussis, and polio; and with the six-in-one vaccine also against haemophilus influenzae and hepatitis B. Vaccination scheme for infants and toddlers up to the 6th birthday (six-in-one vaccine)

• Vaccination: at 3 months
• 2nd vaccination: at 5 months
• 3rd vaccination: At 11 -12 months
• 4th vaccination: At 7 – 9 years ( as a 4-in-1 vaccine with Tetanus, Pertussis, and Polio)

Vaccination scheme for basic immunisation for children as of the 6th birthday, and for adults (four-in-one vaccine)
2 doses, one to two months apart, 3rd dose six to 12 months after the 2nd dose.

Booster shot
The booster shot is administered as a combination vaccine that protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, and potentially also polio:

• Persons up to 60 years: booster recommended every 10 years
• Persons 60 years and older: booster recommended every 5 years
• If your last booster shot dates back more than 20 years, the immunisation status should be checked about 4-8 weeks after the booster shot was administered by means of a blood test (“titre determination”), or a second dose should be administered after 4-8 weeks.

The diphtheria vaccination is part of the free-of-charge vaccination programme for children in Austria. Until the child’s 15th birthday, it can be administered free of charge at the MA15 vaccination centre Town Town and in all doctor’s offices following the Austrian Immunisation Concept. After the child’s 15th birthday and for adults, the vaccine is not free of charge. Diphtheria – impfservice.wien A list of all doctors following the Vienna Immunisation Concept can be found here:

https://www.wien.gv.at/gesundheit/beratung-vorsorge/impfen/ordinationsuebersicht.html
https://www.wien.gv.at/gesundheit/beratung-vorsorge/pdf/ordinationsuebersicht.pdf (PDF).

You can book an appointment at www.impfservice.wien for the Town Town vaccination centre by clicking “Standard and Booster vaccinations Town Town”. Direct link to book an appointment for this campaign.

Monkeypox is a notifiable viral disease. The virus is closely related to smallpox, which was eradicated by a resolute worldwide vaccination campaign by 1977. The virus may cause an illness similar to smallpox in humans. Unlike cases of smallpox, monkeypox is rarely lethal. Immunodeficient persons, pregnant persons, and children are especially at risk of a severe progression.

In Western and Central Africa, monkeypox is transmitted especially via infected animals (rodents and monkeys). Transmission among humans may occur through contact with infectious skin lesions, via the mucous membrane when speaking, coughing, or sneezing during close extended contact, and via bodily fluids, i.e. during sexual contact. Using the same clothes, sanitary products or office utensils, or even inhaling virus-contaminated dust may cause an infection.

After 5 to 14, and at the latest 21 days, the first symptoms occur. They include fever, general exhaustion, headaches and aching limbs, gastrointestinal problems, and often also a painful swelling of the lymph nodes. After 1 to 3 days, skin lesions (starting with spots, later lumps, and finally blisters that will scab and heal once the scabs are shed). These skin conditions are often only minor but may hurt and itch. Painful and open wounds may also appear around the genitals. All skin symptoms are infectious until they scab and are shed.

The virus can be diagnosed by way of a smear test from the skin or the mucous membrane via PCR method in a special lab. The smear test is performed by medical staff protected by special measures.

If you are displaying symptoms and have been in contact with someone who has monkeypox, you should isolate immediately and call 1450. Persons who have been verifiably infected must stay in isolation until the last scab is shed. Regulatory isolation ends after a final medical consultation with a specialist after about three to four weeks. Persons who may have been in contact with someone infected with monkeypox must monitor themselves for 21 days, i.e. if they spike a fever, experience headaches or aching limbs, swelling of the lymph nodes or develop skin rashes, and they must inform the health authorities daily about their condition. Physical and especially sexual contacts (this also includes sex while using protection) should be avoided during this time. You must also avoid contact with immunodeficient persons, children, pregnant persons, and also pets.

The City of Vienna’s Health Hotline with the phone number 1450 is available 24/7.

• Reduce contacts to others to a minimum! If contact cannot be avoided, you should keep a distance of at least 2 metres to others. (Refrain from any physical contact).
• Isolate yourself as much as possible from your (uninfected) flat mates (separate room).
• Wear an FFP2 mask when leaving your room.
• Completely cover any skin rashes (bandage/clothing).
• Avoid contact with your pet (transmission cannot be ruled out).
• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
• Do not share household items (i.e. towels, dishes) with other members of your household.
• Disinfect all surfaces of the bathroom/toilet after every use.
• Use a surface disinfectant that kills viruses.
• Clean used surfaces daily (doorknobs, tables, smartphones etc.).
• Use clothes and linen that can be washed at a minimum of 60°C or use a disinfectant detergent that kills viruses.
• Avoid activities that may raise dust such as airing out bedsheets, pillows etc. or vacuuming.
• Contaminated rubbish should be closed tightly and disposed of.

Isolation will last until it can be guaranteed that you are no longer infectious. This is the case once all scabs were shed and all wounds are healed. Isolation will last at least 21 days after the start of symptoms, or up to 28 days in some cases. You will determine a date for the assessment of your condition together with your physician, which will be set out in your notice. If your physician determines during that appointment that there is no reason to prolong your isolation, the notice is lifted and your isolation can end.

After your isolation has been terminated, the authorities will make an appointment with you to perform a final disinfection of your apartment. This has to take place within three working days of your release.
Further recommendations: As it cannot be ruled that bodily fluids remain infectious even after you get out of isolation (i.e. semen), it is recommended that you use condoms and other protection during intercourse for the following three months.

A third-generation smallpox vaccine by Bavarian Nordic is sold in the US under the name Jynneos® and in the EU under the name Imvanex®. It is suitable for persons 18 years and older to prevent smallpox and monkeypox.
The third-generation smallpox vaccines are non-replicating attenuated vaccines whose close relationship to monkeypox suggests that they will also protect against that virus. This vaccine is not approved for children and youths under 18 years of age, and there is currently no study data available for this age group. This means that there is currently no recommendation for administering the vaccine preventatively. However, this does not apply after close physical contact with someone infected (i.e. in the same household), as any risk-benefit-assessment would be clearly in favour of administering the vaccine (off-label).

It is currently not recommended that the broad public get vaccinated. After considering the relevant availability of the vaccines, the following groups of persons may currently get vaccinated: Contact persons (regardless of age):

• Persons who have had close physical contact to someone infected with monkeypox.
• Persons in specialist labs who work with orthopoxviruses (work with samples of people infected with monkeypox or with the virus itself).
• Persons who need to receive an incubation vaccination (vaccination regime to prevent an infection)

• Persons at risk who have not yet received a smallpox vaccine are recommended to get two doses of the Jynneos® vaccine. The second dose should be administered 28 days after the first dose.
• For persons who have received a second-generation smallpox vaccine decades ago, one dose is sufficient.

Due to the close relationship of the monkeypox virus to the smallpox pathogen (Vairola maior), it can be assumed that persons who have received the smallpox vaccine will be partially protected against smallpox as well. Being born before 1980 and the vaccination scar (usually on the upper arm) may be indicators of having received the smallpox vaccine at some point. If you have had close physical contact with someone infected with monkeypox, it is recommended that you get one dose of the Jynneos® vaccine as soon as possible (ideally within 4 days).

The Imvanex® vaccine, which is approved in the EU, is currently not available in Austria. A post-exposure vaccination with the Jynneos® may currently be administered as a post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to persons who have had high-risk contact with persons reportedly infected with monkeypox. The vaccination should be administered as soon as possible after contact, ideally within 4 days (no later than 14 days post-exposure).
This option is available both to persons who have had close physical contact and to medical staff after potentially unprotected contact.
The district health authority for the residence where you have become infected is in charge of the evaluation of this and will contact you. Outside of office hours (between 3:30 pm and 7:30 am), you can contact the health authorities, i.e. the City of Vienna Public Health Department, with their permanent medical on-call service (+43 1 4000-87890).