By Kaya 959 Reporter
Transnet has launched a vaccination train to support the government’s efforts in bolstering the current roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine.
“Modelled on the Phelophepa health trains, which have been providing primary health care services in under-serviced areas across South Africa over the past 27 years, the Transvaco aims to reach and vaccinate, communities in remote parts of the country and areas where health facilities are overburdened,” Transnet said.
“The train will be at the Springs Station in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng over the next two weeks, to support work to accelerate the province’s vaccination programme. Services to the public commence on 19 August.”
According to the train’s manager, Paballo Mokwana, the aim is to vaccinate as many people as possible.
Currently, the train has the capacity to administer 600 vaccines per day in specially designed vaccination cubicles.
The train has eight other carriages which are used for accommodation, staff dining, and electricity generation as well as to store other essentials.
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Many still unwilling
South Africa has administered more than 11 million vaccines since the start of the roll-out.
Despite the government’s best efforts, there are many who refuse to take the vaccine.
“Various studies have been conducted in the last few months on the willingness of individuals to take the COVID-19 vaccine. These studies have been conducted in numerous countries and have shown that vaccine hesitancy is a worldwide problem,” the Helen Suzman Foundation said in a statement.
According to a survey by the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization, factors such as age, race, education and political affiliation played a role in a person’s decision to be vaccinated.
Over 10 000 participants completed the survey.
The survey showed that white adults tend to be least accepting of a COVID-19 vaccine; 55% say they would take the vaccine compared to 69% of Black African adults.
“Those with less than matric-level education were generally more open to receiving a vaccine (72%) than those who have completed matric (62%) or have a tertiary education (59%). Support for vaccination increases with age. Politics is also important.
“In terms of voting intention, acceptance was as follows. ANC: 78%, DA: 65%, EFF: 62%, other parties: 67%. Among those who did not intend to vote, acceptance was much lower, only 48%.” the survey revealed.
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