The City of Cape Town’s Health Department is encouraging all eligible adults to get vaccinated as the Western Cape enters the fourth wave of Covid-19 infections.

‘The number of daily infections have increased steadily and we are officially in the midst of the fourth wave. The surge in infections is of great concern, especially as we get ready for the festive season and increased contact with loved ones. Protect yourself, your vulnerable family and friends, and get vaccinated as soon as possible. It is still the most effective method of preventing hospitalisation and death from the virus,’ urged the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross.

As of 1 December 2021 immunocompromised individuals who received two doses of the Pfizer vaccine must receive an additional 3rd dose. Please approach your doctor or nurse practitioner who has to fill out a referral form.

Persons that are fully vaccinated can still get infected with Covid-19 and they can infect others. It is important that you exercise care and adhere to Covid-19 protocols especially when you are in groups, in public, in the workplace or out and about.

Avoid congregating in groups and crowded places. Avoid congested spaces and poorly ventilated places. Avoid close contact with others.

When you socialise with people who do not live with you, do it safely. Keep it small, keep it short, keep it outside or in a well ventilated space and keep your distance.

Ensure your mask covers your mouth and nose at all times.

Wash and sanitise your hands often.

As of 9 December 2021, the Western Cape vaccination coverage is as follows:

>50 % ( 2 655 389)of the total adult population (18 years and older )have received at least one dose of the vaccine.

Of that population, 41,28 %  (2 319 942) have been fully vaccinated.

13,54%  (87 060)of children, aged between 12 – 17 years have been vaccinated

‘These vaccination targets are still not near those that we have set ourselves for year end. We would really like to improve the vaccination coverage, particularly of the older and more vulnerable population and will continue our efforts to increase uptake of vaccination in all age groups. The Omicron variant that is currently prevalent is highly contagious and vaccination is more important than ever before. The life you save could just be your own,’ said Councillor van der Ross.

Source: City Of Cape Town