Good evening. I am Nasreen Modise and this is 7pm news. Todays questions is to trust or not to trust the new vaccine. Tonight I am joined by an immunologist, Dr Obi, to give us a break down of the disease and about the vaccine. Dr thank you for joining us today. So please kindly explain to us the nature of the outbreak and why it is important to vaccinate
Good evening to the viewers at home, thank you for having me tonight. Quick disclaimer I am not here to scare citizens I am here to educate. The outbreak that we are facing is deadly due to it being highly contagious. It affects the respiratory system, our lungs and breathing, as well as the neurological system. And it presents differently in multiple people therefore making it difficult for a fast diagnosis.
Glisser: 2
Who is at a higher risk of catching this disease and what are you doing about it?
Old people and people with compromised immune systems. Hence I urge everyone to get vaccinated because like I mentioned earlier diagnosing this disease is a challenge and our national laboratory services are overwhelmed meaning we fail to get results of samples fast and our healthcare system only has an average of 16 beds per province in the medical ICUs whivh can’t accommodate the large population we have. We are currently making elderly and immune compromised people first priority for the vaccine
Glisser: 3
The vaccine is currently available at all clinics, hospitals and pharmacies. We have an initiative with the private sector to provide vaccines for free to make it reach a wider population
Glisser: 0
Coming to the vaccine, it is vital to understand that vaccines do not only protect you but protect the people around you. I had the opportunity to be directly involved in the development of the vaccine and I can say that it is safe and there has not been any detrimental side effects. Getting the vaccine outweighs the risks. It only takes one jab to protect you and your family
Before we wrap up, is the vaccine available and where can it be accessed?
Thank you Dr Obi for your insight. Any last words for the viewers?
I have seen a lot of false information going around social media around this disease so I urge citizens to follow precautions set out by healthcare workers and also call the number on screen 0800 667 889 to speak with a trained medical professional regarding this disease and if your are experiencing the following symptoms, weakness of the legs, difficulty walking and breathing, increased temperature, loss of balance, blurry vision and persistent headaches lasting 3 or more days. This number is toll free. Good night and stay safe.