Stricter restrictions during the third wave of Covid-19 infections could be implemented as early as next week. Meanwhile, Johannesburg has urged residents over 60 to prioritise their registration for the vaccine.
Mzansi is currently experiencing a third wave of coronavirus infections with a significant spike in Gauteng, said metropole spokesperson Virgil James.
He said, thus far, over 19 000 Johannesburg residents older than 60 had been vaccinated since the opening of non-medical sites in May.
These sites are mostly community halls and sports centres that are easily accessible by residents who wish to receive the Covid-19 jab.
James said, “Both the provincial and city health departments have been on a massive drive to get the targeted residents to register online or at the nearest clinic.
“There is a concerted effort to vaccinate all persons 60 years and above during this phase. They are given the necessary assistance to register. Although the vaccine does not make you immune to the virus, it does provide a good measure of protection.
“Everyone must take responsibility to keep safe including other family members, colleagues, fellow commuters, congregants, friends, and fellow pupils. Infections are not restricted to the elderly or frail; anyone can be infected at any time even if you have received your vaccination,” said James.
How to register to be vaccinated
To receive the vaccine, you need to pre-register on an online registration system known as the electronic vaccine data system (EVDS).
You will need:
- access to the internet on any device (cell phone, laptop, table, desktop);
- your ID or passport number or asylum certificate;
- your residential address; and
- your cell phone number.
Should you not have access to the internet or mobile device you can pre-register at their local clinics and vaccination sites. Those who are immobile will also be assisted to register by community health care workers at their homes.
Vaccinations take place under strict Covid 19 protocols as you proceed from one station to the next, sanitizing, registration, testing, and verification until vaccination point.
After receiving the Pfizer jab, you are directed to a monitoring station for at least 15 minutes where you are counselled on the possible side effects and what to do and where to go if adversely affected.
As the Pfizer vaccine is a two-jab vaccine, you are also given a 42-day return date for the next vaccine jab.
