THE Eastern Cape has vaccinated more than one million people against COVID-19, the provincial Department of Health said on Sunday.
At least 1 002 813 people have been fully vaccinated, with 62% of them aged 60 and older.
“Of the vaccinated population, about 43 385 health workers have received their jabs,” the department said.
The department added that it aimed at reachingherd immunity in the province by inoculating 4.5 million people by the end of March next year.
It said the vaccination drive was being expanded with pop-up vaccination sites at pension pay points, shopping centres, community halls and churches.
“There has been a targeted strategy to strengthen rural registrations and vaccinations around the province. The department has also focused on increasing our capability to provide vaccinations by increasing the number of accredited sites that provide the vaccination service.
“The majority of the sites are primary healthcare facilities, which means our service is closer to where people live and work.”
The department said its vaccination drive had been boosted by Transnet’s vaccination train, Transvaco, which administered jabs all over the country. The train is in Gqeberha until tomorrow (Friday, September 24) and will move to East London and then Komani, where it will be stationed until December.
Eastern Cape Health MEC, Nomakhosazana Meth, called on those eligible for the jab to come forward and get vaccinated.
Meth also thanked healthcare workers at the coalface of the fight against COVID-19.
“We are grateful for our devoted health workers, for your courage, persistence and dedication. We want you to know that your sacrifices mean a great deal to the province.
“We truly are thankful for you and sending you love and positivity,” Meth said.
