Additional covid-19 vaccine booster shots are now available at all vaccine sites across the country. Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla made the announcement earlier this month. The government has been flooded with requests from the public seeking to maintain and enhance their protection against COVID variants.

The additional shot means all adults aged 50 years and older will be eligible for a total of five vaccine doses, while those aged between 18 and 49 years will be eligible to receive another dose to make a total of four doses of either J&J or Pfizer vaccine.

The waiting period between the last dose and this additional dose should be at least 180 days or six months.

All adults aged 18 years and older who are registered on the Electronic vaccination data system, EVDS, as being immunocompromised can also receive an additional booster dose.

The vaccination schedule for those between 12 and 17 years remains unchanged. This means the age group remains eligible to receive only two doses.

The EVDS has been updated and vaccinators have been informed accordingly.

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The department has integrated COVID-19 vaccination services into primary health services. They are also working with provinces to update the lists of vaccination sites to make these accessible to the public.

Western Cape Gov offers vaccines at football tournament

Those attending the Battle of the Stars pre-season soccer tournament in Philippi will be able to access their COVID-19 vaccine or booster. Other essential health services will also be on offer. The tournament takes place from 28 January until 12 February 2023.

The community outreaches form part of an agreement between Khetimpilo, DG Murray Trust, and the Western Cape Department of Health. The agreement contributes to the province’s COVID-19 vaccination uptake and makes health services available to residents.

Western Cape COVID-19 Vaccination Project Office Lead, Dr. Hilary Goeiman, says this is an opportunity for residents to ensure that their vaccinations are up-to-date.

“We are grateful to the organizers of the tournament for helping us to take essential health services to residents, conveniently where they are. We hope that many residents will support our interventions at this tournament”

Vaccination remains the most effective weapon against the pandemic. This is as new variants and sub-variants are detected in various parts of the world. Those who experience known COVID-19 symptoms are encouraged to visit a health facility.

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