While the number of vaccinated persons continues to grow, there remains room for improvement.

The number of individuals registered in the Cape metro is nearing 850 000, which represents approximately 43% of those eligible for registration and vaccination. In the population older than 60, 36% have been vaccinated.

Of the eight health sub-districts, the three with the lowest rates of registration are Khayelitsha, Mitchells Plain and Klipfontein sub-districts.

Individual areas with very low registration rates include Delft, Philippi, Crossroads, Nomzamo and Fisantekraal.

‘There are multiple reasons why these areas have such low registration rates, including vaccine hesitancy. The public health service works very hard to increase the number of vaccination sites for ease of access, and in recent months we have started doing walk-in registrations and vaccinations for priority groups to get around possible obstacles posed by the electronic registration system. Our education and awareness initiatives are continuing, we have successfully lobbied for more vaccines at public facilities.

‘There continues to be a lot of misinformation about the vaccines in the public realm, but it is imperative that our residents block out the noise and visit their nearest clinic for advice instead if they have reservations about getting vaccinated. We are currently still grappling with a devastating third wave of infections, and the vaccine has proven to protect against severe illness and death. We cannot afford to lose more lives when we have vaccines available,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.

The Covid-19 vaccination limits the risk of severe disease and death, as well as transmission to others.

Even persons who have recovered from the virus should be vaccinated, as the vaccine will improve and extend their immunity.

Any person who has tested positive for Covid-19 should wait 30 days from the start of their symptoms before getting vaccinated.

The vaccination may come with minor side effects like a sore arm, mild fever, fatigue, headache or muscle/joint aches. This is common and is to be expected, as it shows that the body is responding to the vaccine by building an immune response.

‘It is also important to address some misconceptions about the do’s and don’ts once you have been fully vaccinated. The vaccination reduces the risk of severe Covid-19 infection; it does not prevent it. So it is important to continue observing Covid-19 protocols. Mask up, sanitise and keep your distance, even after you are vaccinated. When you do socialise with people who do not live under your roof, keep it small (under 10 people), keep your distance and keep it short. Keep your mask on and only remove your mask when you eat or drink.

‘The City recognises that this pandemic has taken its toll on our residents, and that fatigue has set in. However, the ongoing infections and fatalities too are very real and should serve as a constant reminder that we have to continue doing our bit to keep safe and prevent the fourth wave,’ added Councillor Badroodien.

Source: City Of Cape Town