By Kaya 959 Reporter
The Department of Health is edging closer to reaching its goal of vaccinating 70% of the over 50 population by December 31.
The department says thus far, 62.76% of adults, aged 50 and over, have taken at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
The latest data from the department shows that 26 490 416 vaccines have been administered to date. Data also shows that 60% of people in the 50-59 age group have received their first vaccine.
Sixty-five percent of people in the over 60 age group have had their first vaccine dose.
South Africa now has sufficient supplies of vaccines and vaccine stations set up in every part of the country.
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Ramaphosa urges South Africans to get vaccinated
According to President Cyril Ramaphosa, as infections rise, the reasons to get vaccinated become more compelling.
In his weekly letter to the country, Ramaphosa says vaccines are safe. He says just like all other routine vaccinations people received as children and against diseases like measles, they offer the most potent form of protection available.
Ramaphosa says vaccination is essential for the country’s economic recovery. He says as more people are vaccinated more areas of economic activity will be opened up.
“We can do our work and socialise under less stringent restrictions and our lives can return to some degree of normality,” he says.
The President says the massive surge in infections means that people need to reduce contact with people outside their household.
“Social distancing is difficult as the festive season approaches but the evidence shows that gatherings – mainly those held indoors – carry the greatest risk of transmission. Many people have been disappointed by the cancellation of some big events in recent days but it is by far the safest and most responsible thing to do now,” Ramaphosa says.
