Kaya 959 News
South Africa has asked the Serum Institute of India to take back the 1 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine, which arrived earlier this month.
The Economic Times India reports the Institute has not yet responded to the request.
The health ministry decided to halt the roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine after a study showed it offered minimal protection against mild to moderate cases of the South African 501.V2 virus strain.
South Africa is now waiting for the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, which will be used to vaccinate health workers.
The Johnson & Johnson vaccine has shown 57% efficacy in preventing severe effects of the virus and can help prevent hospitalization and death.
Latest COVID-19 stats
The news comes after Health Minister Dr. Zweli Mkhize revealed the latest COVID-19 cases in a statement yesterday.
#COVID19 Statistics in SA as at 15 February .
Use the COVID Alert SA app to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community. Start using this privacy preserving app today. Add your phone to the fight! Download the Covid Alert SA app now! https://t.co/8YKEqaiiRF pic.twitter.com/kiNLYzwmeF
— Dr Zweli Mkhize (@DrZweliMkhize) February 15, 2021
As of today, the total number of confirmed #COVID19 cases is 1 492 909 the total number of deaths is 48 094 and the total number of recoveries is 1 391 155. pic.twitter.com/8yYp2stPjA
— Dr Zweli Mkhize (@DrZweliMkhize) February 15, 2021
As of the 15th February, the country recorded 1102 new infections and 195 COVID-19 related deaths. South Africa has seen 1 492 909 cases with a death toll of 48 094 and a recovery rate of 1 391 155.



