The City of Joburg’s non-medical sites (NMSes) are open for business from 07:00 to 15:00 daily. Of the 26 sites spread across seven regions, 25 are operating normally except for one in Freedom Park in Region G, which remains closed for security reasons.
According to Virgil James, CoJ Communications Specialist, none of the NMS were affected by the violence and looting over the past few days.
People aged 35 and over can register to be vaccinated. The NMSes have become busier as more people respond to government’s call to take the jab. These local halls and sports facilities were set up as NMSes to make it easier and more accessible for residents to get the jab by simply walking or driving a short distance. Each NMS has a minimum of four vaccination stations, with some having up to eight.
“The Pfizer vaccine is being administered. This is a two-jab vaccine so immediately thereafter, a second date is given to return after 42 days. The City receives its vaccines from the Provincial pharmacy and has sufficient stock for the foreseeable future. Both spheres are working together to achieve 67% herd immunity,” Virgil explained.
He added that by July 13, a total of 3 025 people had been vaccinated.
The City continues to encourage residents to register as soon as possible and not be hesitant. There are fake news and beliefs associated with taking the vaccine, but the City has not recorded any severe side effects or deaths. The vaccine is very safe and it is normal to experience headaches, nausea or pain.
“Covid infections are rising at an alarming rate daily, and it is critical for everyone to be vaccinated and protected against the coronavirus and hospitalisation. As from July 15, persons aged 35 and older could register,” Virgil said.
To receive the vaccine you need to pre-register on an online registration system known as the Electronic Vaccine Data System (EVDS).
The EVDS can be accessed here. For support call the Covid-19 Hotline on 0800 029 999.
You need the following to register:
• Access to the internet on any device (cellphone, laptop, table, desktop)
• Your ID number or passport, (asylum certificate in the case of foreign nationals)
• Your residential address
• Your cellphone number
Those who do not have access to the internet or a mobile device can pre-register at their local clinics and vaccination sites. Community healthcare workers will assist those who are immobile to register at their homes.
Please remember that healthcare workers are also working under difficult conditions and become ill through stress. Quite a number become infected with the coronavirus. This may result in temporary staff shortages as they isolate. The City provides support by prioritising their needs, ensuring adequate personal protective equipment and employee assistance for their well-being.
