Western Cape Government Health is embarking on an influenza vaccination campaign, which is taking place from 2 April to 30 June 2012. A total of 100 000 vaccine doses will be available for this campaign and have been allocated to all districts.
Western Cape Government Health is providing the flu vaccine free of charge. People who are part of the priority groups are encouraged to go to their nearest health facility to request the vaccination. Through receiving the vaccine, people living in the Western Cape can build stronger immune systems and protect themselves against flu during this winter.
Priority groups include:
Western Cape Health Minister, Theuns Botha, says, "The vaccination campaign forms part of our strategy to boost people's immune systems so that their bodies are less vulnerable to disease. Our long-term aim is to increase wellness - that is a society where people are healthy and strong and able to go to work every day and live the life they value. Flu vaccinations are only steps on that road, but building blocks towards a healthier society. So make use of this opportunity that our health services offer so that we can be better together."
The aim of the flu campaign is to highlight the need for vaccination before and during the flu season and to ensure that available vaccines are utilised.
The outcome of the campaign is to reduce influenza-related morbidity and mortality and to reduce the transmission of the influenza virus within communities. Not everyone is at risk of severe disease; therefore, not everyone needs to be vaccinated against the current strain of influenza.
Other preventative measures include:
The vaccination will be available, free of charge, at community health centres and clinics. The department plans to use all avenues and channels in communities, which may include door-to-door campaigns, vaccination at pension pay points, old age homes and schools in order to reach targeted groups.
Please make contact with your nearest health facility for more information.
Sithembiso Magubane
Principal Communications Officer: District Health Services
Tel: 021 483 2904
Cell: 071 315 3581
E-mail: Sithembiso.Magubane@pgwc.gov.za