In the past seven days, 13 people were reported as having died of Covid-19 and 14 were admitted to hospital. Despite these low numbers, the City of Cape Town’s Health Department wants to remind residents that vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness from the virus.
The vaccine remains free and available at some City and Western Cape Government Health facilities.
'While our everyday lives have returned to near normality, the virus has not disappeared. It still causes illness and death. When you get the vaccine, you develop antibodies, so when you're exposed to the virus, it reduces the risk of severe illness that may result in hospitalisation or death.
'Those who have not yet been vaccinated, and residents 60 years and older remain the most vulnerable. While we no longer have to keep our distance or wear masks, we need to keep up with other health protocols. To mitigate the risk of exposure or getting ill, continue with personal hygiene measures like regular handwashing and coughing into your elbow,' said the City's Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross.
Any resident 18 years and older who has not registered for a vaccine yet, can go to their nearest vaccination site for assisted registration and vaccination.
Symptoms of infection are the same as the symptoms of the common cold, namely a runny nose, headache, sore throat and fever. While isolation and quarantine is not legislated, it is recommended that if you are unwell, stay home until you feel better.
'Covid-19 had a devastating impact on our lives, city and economy and we proved we could get through it together. We need residents to continue doing their part to get vaccinated and tested if they believe they may have the virus,' said Councillor Van der Ross.
To find your nearest vaccination site, go to https://resource.capetown.gov.za/documentcentre/Documents/Forms%2C%20notices%2C%20tariffs%20and%20lists/Covid-19_Vaccination_Sites_List.pdf
To determine when you are eligible for a booster, go to https://covid19.tn.gov/booster-calculator/ .
Also, keep an eye out for the Western Cape Government Health Department's mobile vaccination vehicle, known as the Vaxi Taxi.
Find the Vaxi Taxi schedule here: https://coronavirus.westerncape.gov.za/vaccine/summer-loading-get-vaxxed-and-relax
Source: City Of Cape Town