In the Western Cape a significant 65% of the population in the province above the age of 60 have already registered to receive their Covid-19 vaccines. As the DA in the Western Cape, we call on those in this priority group to make use of the walk-in approach and get their jabs at their nearest vaccination site.
By ensuring a high vaccination reach in each priority category, we build a strong vaccination cascade in order to reach the ideal 67% of the total target population immunised. This means we can start achieving a safe and healthy future, free from harsh government regulations.
MPP Wendy Philander comments: “Tomorrow, the Standing Committee of Health at Provincial Parliament will visit vaccination sites to continue monitoring the professional service provided by our health officials. We are considering especially the overall process and effectiveness of walk-ins for this age group and how we can grow the uptake.
At this stage, we note that our health platform has the necessary capacity to manage the current third wave, and that the province has beds available for those in need. Similarly, the testing approach has been adjusted so that the system does not struggle with backlogs and the most vulnerable to Covid receive their results, and subsequent care, as soon as possible. The province’s response to the pandemic has always been to provide care for those who need it most. We must continue to follow this route, regardless of those who seek to politicise the pandemic again.
We will also consider the potential to scale up the vaccination drive as we embark on opening up the system for the greater target group under Phase 3. The rate at which we vaccinate can substantially support our health system to manage the provision of care at our facilities. By vaccinating more eligible residents, we can all support our hospitals, clinics, and care facilities.
Through parliamentary questions to the MEC for Health, we will also monitor a steady supply of vaccines to the province, ongoing Covid-19 care, especially in terms of bed capacity in our system, until we reach an even greater point of safety in the province.”
It is important that we grow the immunity rate in our province to reduce the burden on the health system. This will also provide great relief to social and economic sectors which have suffered severely under the pandemic. Vaccination is the only way we can reduce this risk together and effectively.
