Vax facts: Get vaccinated to curb the impact of the fourth Covid-19 wave
PLEASE COPY TO SHARED STORIES AS WELL While there has been a notable increase in the positivity rate of Covid-19 tests over recent days, the looming fourth wave may be less severe than previous resurgences, as about a third of South African adults are fully vaccinated. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) recently noted
While there has been a notable increase in the positivity rate of Covid-19 tests over recent days, the looming fourth wave may be less severe than previous resurgences, as about a third of South African adults are fully vaccinated.
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) recently noted the incidence of Covid-19 was increasing in wastewater samples, especially in Gauteng, and South African Medical Research Council data shows excess deaths have been rising in recent weeks. Excess mortality refers to the number of deaths occurring beyond what we would have normally expected.
In an effort to reduce the impact of the fourth wave, which is expected to hit South Africa in mid-December at the earliest, the Department of Health (DoH) is monitoring the possibility of new variants and behavioural change that could influence forecasts, while continuing to focus on its vaccination drive.
While many South Africans are yet to get their first Pfizer vaccine, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) said it received an application on November 17 for the approval of a third dose – or booster shot – of the Pfizer vaccine.
In October, SAHPRA and Johnson & Johnson approved vaccine booster doses for all healthcare workers who received their first shot as part of the Sisonke Study.
DoH emphasised the importance of getting vaccinated to reduce the risk of developing severe and critical Covid-19 and to provide some protection from infection and transmission.
The World Health Organisation said if vaccinated people do get sick, they are likely to have milder symptoms, in general. It is rare for someone vaccinated to experience severe illness or die.
Also read: New Covid variant puts SA on the red list
1. Get vaccinated during Vooma Vaccination Weekend, December 3–5
Vaccination sites will be open on Friday and Saturday (December 3 and 4), with selected sites opening on Sunday. See www.sacoronavirus.co.za for details.
2. People with disabilities, underlying medical conditions and pregnant women are urged to get vaccinated
People with a disability are often at higher risk of Covid-19 complications. In addition, NICD said pregnant women are more likely to get severely ill with Covid-19, compared with women who are not pregnant. If you’ve been vaccinated, you might be eligible for a booster dose. Speak to your doctor.
3. Over 50s
If you’re over 50, you fall into the age category that is most at risk of severe Covid complications, said DoH.
“If all over 50s get vaccinated by the end of the year, four out of five deaths from Covid-19 could be prevented during the fourth wave.”
4. Side-effects
DoH noted there have been no deaths in South Africa attributed to Covid-19 vaccines.
“It is normal to have some side-effects, such as flu-like symptoms. If you’re worried, feel short of breath or if your heart is racing, call the Covid-19 hotline for advice.”
5. Be a vax champ and stop the spread of misinformation
Vax champs encourage their friends, family and neighbours to vaccinate. To become a vax champ, visit www.vaxchamp.org.za, WhatsApp 0600 123 456 or call the National Covid Hotline.
Enquiries: Covid-19 hotline on 0800 029 999 or at info@vaccinesupport.org.za in English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Sotho or Xhosa.
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