The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) recently noted that the incidence of Covid-19 was increasing in wastewater samples – especially in Gauteng; and South African Medical Research Council data shows that excess deaths have been rising in recent weeks. Excess mortality refers to the number of deaths that are 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) says 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. The DoH emphasises 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.

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The World Health Organisation says if vaccinated people do get sick, they are likely to have milder symptoms, in general. It is very rare for someone vaccinated to experience severe illness or die. 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, the NICD says 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, says the 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 The DoH notes that 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: The Covid-19 hotline on 0800 029 999 or email info@vaccinesupport.org.za in English, Afrikaans, Zulu, Sotho or Xhosa.