What with the highly contagious Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 leading to increased Covid-19 infections globally, the provincial health department has warned that the virus has not disappeared.
Therefore it has launched a booster vaccination campaign on Monday 30 January for South Africans 18 years and older, especially if it has been longer than 180 days since their previous dose.
Immunity (whether to infection or vaccination) decreases over time and a booster helps increase antibodies up to 10 times. Vaccination remains the best defence against serious illness and death from Covid-19, which has continued to evolve over time.
Getting a booster vaccination is good for young and old. “The Western Cape welcomes the additional Covid-19 booster to help eligible residents ‘level-up’ their immunity,” said Dr Hilary Goeiman, Covid-19 project office lead in the province. “We have implemented several strategies to make boosters more accessible at public vaccination sites, mobile outreaches and the Vaxi Taxi.
“Without a large uptake of boosters in the province, Covid-19 infection rates could surge again. Coming forward for a booster vaccination is a good idea, and the best way for us to reduce infections and hospital admissions ahead of winter.”
For a vaccination site, visit www.findmyjab.co.za or Western Cape Government Health on Facebook.
