Publications
Partners
- Only half of Gauteng's pensioners have been inoculated.
- The province is targeting more than 1.3 million pensioners and has thus far vaccinated slight more than 700 000.
- The other worrying group is those aged between 50 and 59 as their numbers stand slightly above 500 000.
More than 700 000 Gauteng pensioners have been vaccinated across the province.
It is targeting more than 1.3 million people aged 60 and above.
Health MEC Dr Nomathemba Mokgethi said 753 725 had been inoculated thus far.
Mokgethi added those aged between 35 and 49 were doing well and have overtaken all eligible age groups.
The group, identified as "breadwinners", has responded positively to the government's vaccination programme.
READ | SA-born biotech billionaire Soon-Shiong sees his shot as universal vaccine booster
"They are doing very well. We are now at 925 186. Their number is almost at one million. The number of people aged 50 to 59 who have been vaccinated is not impressive. We have so far vaccinated 501 097 of that age group. They started earlier than the 35 to 49 age group and their number is low.
"I don't know if maybe those aged 35 to 49 are preparing themselves for the festive season, maybe that is why they are coming in large numbers. We call on all people to come forward."
Mokgethi said some of the "breadwinners" brought their parents to vaccination sites.
READ | Covid 19: Only around 40% of senior citizens vaccinated
"We will be able to reach our elderly group. The number of the elderly that have been admitted is lesser than before. We are impressed that the number of people who died before being diagnosed is also less. It means the vaccine is doing well in our bodies."
She said she was also worried about men who were not participating in the programme.
"I think there is a misconception that many men fear needles and other myths related to vaccination. I don’t know why men are afraid of needles.
"We urge women to encourage their brothers, husbands, male friends and male siblings to go to vaccination sites. I also plead with other men who have been vaccinated to encourage others to come forward," Mokgethi added.
