Covid-19 prevention and management remains a health priority of the City of Tshwane. As MMC for Health, I would like to encourage communities to present themselves for Covid-19 vaccination and booster shots.
Recent trends show that the demand for vaccination is very low after the lifting of the state of disaster. A large percentage of our population has not yet received even one dose. In Tshwane, 24% of the 3 039 308 million population is eligible for vaccination.
People with chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, heart, and lung diseases and those who are immunocompromised remain at risk and are advised to protect themselves by vaccinating. The vaccine is also safe for pregnant women.
We are encouraged that as of 08 August 2022, the Tshwane District was the best performing district for vaccination of the 60+ age group in Gauteng. Similarly, the 50-59 and 12 -17-year groups were recorded as above the Gauteng province average. However, the 35-49- and 18-34-year groups were recorded as below the Gauteng province average
As a demonstration of our commitment to take vaccines to the people, we continue to encourage and support on-going workplace and school vaccinations, street-to-street campaigns with community development workers driving awareness campaigns. Covid-19 vaccination is available at all health facilities as part of the primary health care service package. Previously, vaccination was offered only at certain identified non-medical sites.
I appeal to all health care workers to lead by example and vaccinate. They remain on the frontline and are exposed to significant risk. Ward Councillors should also play their role in ensuring that vaccination registration and awareness is on the agenda of ward-based activities.
I wish to thank the communities of Tshwane who have vaccinated and continue to demonstrate vigilance in combatting Covid-19. Social mobilisation and awareness is a collective effort.