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Covid-19

02 August 2021 Media Release: Health platform update

Media Release: Health platform update 2 August 2021

The Garden Route district has a total of 51 300 confirmed COVID-19 cases, this is an increase of 3003 cases from last week.  The district now has 5 974 active cases. George has the highest active cases per 100 000 people.  Second is Mossel Bay sub-district and then Hessequa sub-district. All situations are being actively monitored.  It is important that we all play our part in curbing the spread of the virus by avoiding crowded places, confined spaces with poor ventilation and settings where you are a close contact.

Hospital services

George Regional Hospital remains under pressure.  Today there are 84 Covid patients in the hospital, of whom 22 are in Critical Care. This is a slight improvement compared to last week.

Harry Comay Hospital, as step-down facility for George Hospital, also remains under pressure.  There are now 24 patients in the two wards.

All district hospitals are very busy with an increase in admissions.  The supply of oxygen to hospitals is sufficient.

Vaccination programme

We have received fewer vaccine from the National Government than anticipated for this week.

Our Department is working behind the scenes to ensure that we receive additional vaccines to be able to sustain the high demand.

This does mean some of our sites are under pressure, and we ask for your support and patience. We continue to do everything possible to get available supplies to every corner of the province, and our staff are working extremely hard to provide you with an excellent vaccine service.

Our priority for walk-ins remains the same in principle.

Priority 1: People 60 years and older requiring their 1st and 2nd dose of Pfizer vaccine.

Priority 2: People aged 50-59 years requiring their 1st dose of Pfizer vaccine.

Priority 3. People aged 35 – 49 requiring their 1st dose of Pfizer vaccine.

Please note that vaccinations on the day will be guided by local demand at that specific site.

To register visit http://vaccine.enroll.health.gov.za/#/ or go to www.westerncape.gov.za and click on the link to register or  WhatsApp the word REGISTER to 0600123456 or Dial *134*832# from any SA network for free.

Vaccination sites for week 2 – 6 August  2021.

SUB-DISTRICT Town Dates 2 – 6 August
Knysna sub-district Knysna Community Day Centre 2 – 6 Aug
Knysna sub-district Knysna Town Hall 2 – 6 Aug
Knysna sub-district Sedgefield Clinic 2, 5, 6
Knysna sub-district Karatara Satellite Clinic 2
Knysna sub-district Keurhoek Satellite Clinic 6
Bitou sub-district Kwanokuthula Community Day Centre 2, 5, 6
Bitou sub-district Kranshoek Clinic 3
Bitou sub-district Plettenberg Bay Town Clinic 2 – 6 Aug
Bitou sub-district Crags Clinic 3, 4
George sub-district Harry Comay TB Hospital 2 – 6 Aug
George sub-district Thembalethu CDC (Sandkraal road) 2 – 6 Aug
George sub-district George Central Clinic 2 – 6 Aug
George sub-district Uniondale Hospital 2 – 6 Aug
George sub-district Mobile Outreach 2 – 6 Aug
George sub-district Pacaltsdorp Clinic 2 – 6 Aug
George sub-district Haarlem Clinic 6
George sub-district Touwsranten Clinic 6
Hessequa sub-district Riversdale Civic Centre 2 – 6 Aug
Hessequa sub-district Heidelberg Duivenhoks Hall 3, 4, 6
Hessequa sub-district Albertinia Theronsville Hall 2, 5, 6
Hessequa sub-district Melkhoutfontein Satellite Clinic 4
Hessequa sub-district Still Bay Civic Centre 2, 3, 5, 6
Hessequa sub-district Slangrivier Satellite Clinic 2, 6
Hessequa sub-district Witsand de Duine Hall 4
Hessequa sub-district Gouritsmond Hall 4
Kannaland sub-district Ladismith DRC Church Hall 2
Kannaland sub-district Zoar Sports Club 4
Kannaland sub-district Calitzdorp DRC Church Hall 5
Kannaland sub-district Van Wyksdorp Kerksaal 3
Mossel Bay sub-district Alma Community Day Centre 2, 4, 5
Mossel Bay sub-district Wolwedans Community Hall 2, 4, 5
Mossel Bay sub-district Mossel Bay Town Hall 2, 4, 5
Mossel Bay sub-district D’Almeida Community Hall 2, 4, 5
Mossel Bay sub-district Mobile Outreach Boggomsbaai & Vleesbaai 03-Aug
Mossel Bay sub-district Mobile Outreach Herbetsdale 04-Aug
Mossel Bay sub-district Mobile Outreach Kleinbrak & Toekoms 05-Aug
Mossel Bay sub-district Mobile Outreach Sonskynvallei 06-Aug
Oudtshoorn sub-district Toekomsrus Community Hall 2 – 6 Aug
Oudtshoorn sub-district Dysselsdorp Clinic 03-Aug
Oudtshoorn sub-district De Rust (Blommenek) Clinic 05-Aug
Oudtshoorn sub-district Oudtshoorn Clinic 2 – 6 Aug

 

COVID-19 stats as of 2 August 2021

Sub-district TOTAL Active Recovered Deaths
Bitou 3 308 160 3 041 107
George 19 608 2 864 16 095 649
Hessequa 3 199 557 2 501 141
Kannaland 1 266 146 1 064 56
Knysna 6 497 623 5 680 194
Mossel Bay 12 109 1 213 10 542 354
Oudtshoorn 5 313 411 4 556 346
Sub-total 51 300 5 974 43 479 1 847

-END-

Nadia Ferreira

Principal Communications Officer

Garden Route and Central Karoo Districts

Western Cape Government Health

Website: www.westerncape.gov.za

02 August 2021 Media Release: “EHPs ends off Madiba Month on a high note”

Media Release: “EHPs ends off Madiba Month on a high note”

For Immediate Release
02  August 2021

In honour of the legacy of the late former President Nelson Mandela, Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) of the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) George Office, in collaboration with the Western Cape Government Department of Health (WCDOH), devoted 67 minutes of their time to educate visitors at the Blanco Clinic for Madiba Day.

To demonstrate their commitment and dedication to protecting public health during the current Covid-19 pandemic, these men and women conducted health & hygiene education and awareness sessions for the patients visiting the clinic.

EHPs rolled out this initiative while adhering to all COVID-19 protocols. They distributed buffs and educational pamphlets for later use and to emphasise that the only way to protect them against COVID-19 is by:

  • Proper hand-wash practices;
  • Wear a mask in public that covers the nose and mouth; and
  • To keep social distancing of at least 1, 5 m.

Mandela Day is a global call-to-action that celebrates the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world and the ability to make an impact. This year’s Mandela Day campaign message was, “Nelson Mandela has fought for social justice for 67 years. We’re asking you to start with 67 minutes.”

26 July 2021 Media Release: Health platform update 26 July 2021

Media Release: Health platform update 26 July 2021

The Garden Route District had a 29% increase in new cases over the last 7 days compared to 7-14 days ago. All sub-districts had percentage increases, except Mossel Bay which has essentially maintained the status quo.  Hessequa and Bitou has had the biggest percentage increases.  The new cases are widespread with many household clusters.  The total number of positive patients for the district on 26 July 2021 was 48 297.  (One week ago it was 45 017). There are now 922 active cases per 100 000.  (One week ago it was 830.)  There are now a total of 1 706 deaths.  This is regretfully an increase of 97 since the report of last week.  This is a high number and reflects the very difficult position hospitals are in at the moment for staff who have to manage this and the trauma and grief that many families and friends have to bear.

Hospital services

George Regional Hospital is now under severe pressure.  On 26 July, the hospital had  97 Covid patients, of whom 24 were in Critical Care.

Harry Comay Hospital, as step-down facility for George Hospital, is under pressure.  There are now 27 patients in the two wards, which is the maximum capacity with the available staff.  Additional measures have been put in place to accommodate more patients.  All district hospitals are very busy with an increase in admissions. The supply of oxygen to hospitals has dramatically increased and meticulous monitoring of available oxygen and ordering is being done.

Vaccination programme

100-year-old Mrs Wilkinson received her vaccination at Knysna Town Hall on 20 July 2021. With her in the photo is son Rodney(right) and Zoswa(left) from Lifeline.

The Garden Route has administered 90 139 vaccines to date.  We currently have 35 active public sites.

The EVDS system is accepting registration and scheduling appointments for 35+ year old.

Our priority for walk-ins remains the same in principle.

Priority 1: People 60 years and older requiring their 1st and 2nd dose of Pfizer vaccine.

Priority 2: People aged 50-59 years requiring their 1st dose of Pfizer vaccine.

Priority 3. People aged 35 – 49 requiring their 1st dose of Pfizer vaccine.

Please note that vaccinations on the day will be guided by local demand at that specific site. To register visit http://vaccine.enroll.health.gov.za/#/ or go to www.westerncape.gov.za and click on the link to register or  WhatsApp the word REGISTER to 0600123456 or Dial *134*832# from any SA network for free.

Vaccination sites for week 26 – 30 July 2021.

SUB-DISTRICT Town Dates 26 – 30 July
Knysna sub-district Knysna Community Day Centre 26 – 30 July
Knysna sub-district Knysna Town Hall 27 – 30 July
Knysna sub-district Sedgefield Clinic 26, 29, 30 July
Knysna sub-district Karatara Satellite Clinic 26-Jul
Knysna sub-district Keurhoek Satellite Clinic 30
Bitou sub-district Kwanokuthula Community Day Centre 26, 28, 30
Bitou sub-district Kranshoek Clinic 29
Bitou sub-district Plettenberg Bay Town Clinic 26 – 30
Bitou sub-district Crags Clinic 27-Jul
George sub-district Harry Comay TB Hospital 26 – 30 July
George sub-district Thembalethu CDC (Sandkraal road) 26 – 30 July
George sub-district George Central Clinic 26 -30 July
George sub-district Uniondale Hospital 26 -30  July
George sub-district Farm Mobile Outreach 26 -30 July
George sub-district Pacaltsdorp Clinic 26 -30 July
Hessequa sub-district Riversdale Civic Centre 26 – 30 July
Hessequa sub-district Heidelberg Duivenhoks Hall 27, 28, 30
Hessequa sub-district Albertinia Theronsville Hall 29, 30
Hessequa sub-district Melkhoutfontein Satellite Clinic 28
Hessequa sub-district Still Bay Civic Centre 26, 27, 29, 30
Hessequa sub-district Slangrivier Satellite Clinic 30
Hessequa sub-district Witsand de Duine Hall 28
Hessequa sub-district Gouritsmond Hall 27
Kannaland sub-district Ladismith DRC Church Hall 26, 27 July
Kannaland sub-district Zoar Sports Club 28-Jul
Kannaland sub-district Calitzdorp DRC Church Hall 29-Jul
Mossel Bay sub-district Alma Community Day Centre 26, 28, 29, 30 July
Mossel Bay sub-district Wolwedans Community Hall 26, 28, 29, 30 July
Mossel Bay sub-district Mossel Bay Town Hall 26, 28, 29, 30 July
Mossel Bay sub-district D’Almeida Community Hall 26, 28, 29, 30 July
Mossel Bay sub-district Mossel Bay Mobile Outreach 26, 28, 29 July
Oudtshoorn sub-district Toekomsrust Community Hall 26 – 30 July
Oudtshoorn sub-district Dysselsdorp Clinic 27-Jul
Oudtshoorn sub-district De Rust (Blommenek) Clinic 29-Jul
Oudtshoorn sub-district Oudtshoorn Clinic 26 – 30 July

COVID-19 stats as of 26 July 2021

Sub-district TOTAL Active Recovered Deaths
Bitou 3 236 153 2 978 105
George 18 209 2 719 14 900 590
Hessequa 2 886 435 2 326 125
Kannaland 1 191 141 995 55
Knysna 6 159 545 5 432 182
Mossel Bay 11 492 1 324 9 852 316
Oudtshoorn 5 124 389 4 402 333
Sub-total 48 297 5 706 40 885 1 706

-END-

Nadia Ferreira

Principal Communications Officer

Garden Route and Central Karoo Districts

Western Cape Government Health

Website: www.westerncape.gov.za

12 July 2021 Media Release: Garden Route COVID Update 12 July 2021

Media Release: Garden Route COVID Update 12 July 2021

For Immediate Release
12 July 2021

The Garden Route District has seen a 56 % increase in cases the last 7 days compared to 7 – 14 days ago.  The district had an increase of 1225 new COVID-19 cases the past 7 days.  All sub-districts had large percentage increases, except Bitou sub-distrct which has essentially maintained the status quo.  George sub-district in particular had a big increase.

All district hospitals are starting to feel pressure with an increase in admissions.  This is especially so for Oudtshoorn, Mossel Bay and Riversdale Hospitals.  We can however confirm that our supply of oxygen to our hospitals is under control. There are now a total of 1 520 deaths.  This is an additional 66 deaths compared to the total of last week.

There are now 778 active cases per 100 000.  (One week ago it was 580.)

COVID-19 stats as of 12 July 2021

Sub-district TOTAL Active Recovered Deaths
Bitou 3 089 127 2 858 104
George 15 459 2 085 12 868 506
Hessequa 2 431 269 2 045 117
Kannaland 1 052 105 897 50
Knysna 5 601 456 4 976 169
Mossel Bay 10 119 1 445 8 410 264
Oudtshoorn 4 724 328 4 086 310
Sub-total 42 475 4 815 36 140 1 520

Vaccination roll-out

Due to a smaller supply of vaccines, the district had to make adjustments to the schedule for the week 12 – 16 July. The Garden Route vaccination sites will be prioritising people over the age of 60 coming for their first or second dose and people over the age 50 years coming for their first dose. A reduced number of walk-in clients will be accommodated this week.

The district has to date vaccinated nearly 60 000 people. This includes health care workers, old age homes, public vaccination sites and the teacher program.

Vaccination sites and dates for week 12 – 16 July 2021.

SUB-DISTRICT Town Dates 12 – 16 July
Knysna sub-district Knysna Community Day Centre 12 – 16 July
Knysna sub-district Knysna Town Hall 12 – 16 July
Knysna sub-district Sedgefield Clinic 12, 15, 16
Knysna sub-district Keurhoek Satellite Clinic 16
Knysna sub-district Karatara 12
Bitou sub-district Kwanokuthula Community Day Centre 14
Bitou sub-district Plettenberg Bay Town Clinic 13, 14, 15, 16
George sub-district Harry Comay TB Hospital 12 – 16 July
George sub-district Thembalethu CDC (Sandkraal road) 12 – 16 July
George sub-district George Central Clinic 12 – 16 July
George sub-district Uniondale Hospital 12 – 16 July
George sub-district George Mobile Routes 12 – 14
George sub-district Herold Mobile Routes 12 – 15
George sub-district Touwsranten Clinic 16
George sub-district Pacaltsdorp Clinic 12 – 16 July
Hessequa sub-district Riversdale Civic Centre 12 – 16 July
Hessequa sub-district Heidelberg Duivenhoks Hall 13,14,16
Hessequa sub-district Albertinia Theronsville Hall 12,15,16
Hessequa sub-district Melkhoutfontein Satellite Clinic 14
Hessequa sub-district Still Bay Civic Centre 12,13,15,16
Hessequa sub-district Slangrivier Satellite Clinic 12, 16
Hessequa sub-district Witsand de Duine Hall 14
Hessequa sub-district Gouritsmond Hall 13
Kannaland sub-district Ladismith DRC Church Hall 12, 13
Kannaland sub-district Zoar Sports Club 14
Kannaland sub-district Calitzdorp DRC Church Hall 15, 16
Mossel Bay sub-district Alma Community Day Centre 13, 14, 15, 16
Mossel Bay sub-district Wolwedans Community Hall 13, 14, 15, 16
Mossel Bay sub-district Mossel Bay Town Hall 13, 14, 15, 16
Mossel Bay sub-district Buisplaas Outreach 13
Mossel Bay sub-district D’Almeida Community Hall 14, 15, 16
Oudtshoorn sub-district Toekomsrust Community Hall 12 – 16 July
Oudtshoorn sub-district Dysselsdorp Clinic 13
Oudtshoorn sub-district De Rust (Blommenek) Clinic 15
Oudtshoorn sub-district Oudtshoorn Clinic 12 – 16 July

Keeping safe during the Third Wave 

We are currently in the midst of an established Third Wave of Covid-19 infections. The best way we can protect each other is to avoid social gatherings outside our immediate home environment and protect our ‘bubble’. This is your ‘safe space’.  Thus, let’s keep this behavior going for the next few weeks, to break the chain of transmission and flatten the curve.

We can avoid a transmission chain from setting in by protecting our air space.

  • Avoid all large gatherings;
  • Avoid any social gatherings where possible;
  • If you need to go out to do activities such as shopping, always wear your mask and keep it short;
  • If you must meet, keep it outdoors, small and short;
  • When indoors, dress warmly and ensure the windows are open so your space is well ventilated with fresh air;
  • If sick, stay home

ENDS

Nadia Ferreira
Principal Communications Officer
Garden Route and Central Karoo Districts
Western Cape Government Health
Email: Nadia.Ferreira@westerncape.gov.za 
Website: www.westerncape.gov.za

8 July 2021 Media Release: COVID-19: Executive Mayor Memory Booysen receives his first vaccination

Media Release: COVID-19: Executive Mayor Memory Booysen receives his first vaccination

For Immediate Release
8 July 2021

Executive Mayor for Garden Route District Municipality, Alderman Memory Booysen, encourages Garden Routers, in particular, those 50 years and older to register to get their COVID-19 vaccinations. Booysen received his first Pfizer dose at the Thembalethu Clinic on Thursday, 8 July 2021. He will return to the clinic on 19 August, after 42 days, for his second jab.

Mayor Booysen arrived at 12:05 pm and got his jab at 12:35 pm. He waited in line with other Garden Routers for his turn.

“I felt a little sting when they gave me the injection, but otherwise I feel perfectly fine. I trust that the public will continue to turn out in big numbers to get vaccinated. I also urge the public to help stop the spread of misinformation, fear and fake news about vaccines.”

To date 53 582 people in the Garden Route have been vaccinated since the start of the vaccine program and more are expected to register to get their injections going forward.

COVID-19 Facts

Here are the facts about COVID-19 vaccines:

  • COVID-19 vaccines are tested rigorously and are proven to be safe and effective.
  • If you are an adult with an underlying medical condition or illness, you have a greater risk of severe COVID-19 and should get the vaccine to protect you.
  • It gives protection against severe COVID-19 and COVID-19 related death.
  • It cannot give you COVID-19 as it does not contain any live virus.
  • It cannot change your DNA.
  • No COVID-19 vaccine contains animal products or eggs. The vaccines are suitable for vegans and are halal. The rubber stoppers of the vaccine vials do not contain latex.

Feature image: Alderman Memory Booysen, Executive Mayor for Garden Route District Municipality excited and relieved to have received his first Phizer Jab – Zilla North (Manager: Medical Services for the George Sub-District) was by his side throughout the process. The wall behind them was painted by students from the Life Skills Club at the Inkcubeko Youth and Science Center.

ENDS

5 July 2021 Media Release: GRDM Deputy Executive Mayor gets vaccinated

Media Release:  GRDM Deputy Executive Mayor gets vaccinated

06 July 2016
For immediate release

The Garden Route District Municipality’s  (GRDM) Deputy Executive Mayor, Alderlady Rosina Ruiters, was one of the first 50 years plus residents of Mossel Bay to receive a Covid-19 vaccine on Thursday, 1 July 2021.

According to a very excited Alderlady Ruiters, the overall process from start to finish went very well-ordered. “I need to comment the Western Cape Department of Health for the smooth, professional and safe manner in which the vaccination process was conducted. No long lines, with friendly, tolerant and helpful staff, skilled to make everybody feel at ease,” she said.

Alderlady Ruiters urges residents in the District who are 50 years and older, who have not registered on the EVDS system yet, to please do so.  The SMS appointment notifications to people over the age of 50 who have successfully registered had commenced on Friday, 2 July 2021, and scheduled appointments followed from Monday, 5 July 2021.

Let us all work together towards flattening the curve of the wave by protecting ourselves and others – wearing a mask in public, wash hands regularly with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitiser.  Always keep a safe distance and, where possible, avoid crowded places.

5 July 2021 Media Release: Garden Route COVID Update

Media Release: Garden Route COVID Update 5 July 2021

For Immediate Release
5 July 2021

The Garden Route District has seen a 95 % increase in cases the last 7 days compared to 7 – 14 days ago.  The district had an increase of 2 311 new cases the past 7 days. All sub-districts had large percentage increases.

District hospitals are seeing an increase in admissions, especially Mossel Bay Hospital. George Hospital continues to admit a large number of patients with COVID-19. The hospital currently has 44 COVID-19 patients of which 15 are in high care. All sub-districts are de-escalating non-essential services to cope with the increased load at primary health care facilities and hospitals.

COVID-19 stats as of 5 July 2021

Sub-district TOTAL Active Recovered Deaths
Bitou 3 029 115 2 811 103
George 14 277 1 433 12 373 471
Hessequa 2 278 190 1 974 114
Kannaland 997 71 877 49
Knysna 5 367 350 4 850 167
Mossel Bay 9 412 1 188 7 978 246
Oudtshoorn 4 532 243 3 985 304
Sub-total 39 892 3 590 34 848 1 454

 

Vaccination roll-out

A total of 46 902 vaccines have been administered since the start of the vaccine program. This includes healthcare workers, old age homes and public sites.

Registration for people 50 years and older frequently asked questions:

Has registration opened for people of 50 years and older?

Yes, people 50 years and older who want to receive the vaccine can now register on the available platforms.

Will people aged 50 – 59 years receive their appointments now?

Yes, the EVDS system will start allocating available appointments as from 5 July 2021.

What about people of 60 years and older who have still not received their 2nd SMS, will they be prioritised?

Yes, people aged 60 years and older will be prioritised over those of 50 – 59 years. We ask that those older than 60 who have not received their first dose to please come to a vaccination site as a walk-in, where they will receive their vaccination.

Will people of 60 years and older who must receive their second dose be prioritised over people aged 50 – 59 years?  Yes, our current priority is those above 60 years, for both their first and second dose of the vaccination.

Will sites assist walk-in people aged 50 – 59 years who are registered?  Yes, if the site has enough vaccines, you will be assisted. However, those with appointments will be assisted first.

 

The following sites in the Garden Route District will administer vaccinations on the following days for week 5 – 9 July.

SUB-DISTRICT Town Dates 5 – 9 July
Knysna sub-district Knysna Community Day Centre 5 – 9 July
Knysna sub-district Knysna Town Hall 5 – 9 July
Knysna sub-district Sedgefield Clinic 5, 8, 9
Knysna sub-district Keurhoek Satellite Clinic 9
Bitou sub-district Plettenberg Bay Clinic 5 – 9 July
Bitou sub-district Kranshoek clinic 8
Bitou sub-district Kwanokuthula Community Day Centre 5, 9
Bitou sub-district Crags Clinic 6
George sub-district Harry Comay TB Hospital 5 – 9 July
George sub-district Thembalethu CDC (Sandkraal road) 5 – 9 July
George sub-district George Central Clinic 5 – 9 July
George sub-district Uniondale Hospital 5 – 9 July
George sub-district George & Herald Mobile Routes 5 – 9 July
George sub-district Touwsranten Clinic 9
George sub-district Pacaltsdorp Clinic 5  –  9 July
Hessequa sub-district Riversdale Civic Centre 5 – 9 July
Hessequa sub-district Heidelberg Duivenhoks Hall 6, 7 , 9
Hessequa sub-district Albertinia Theronsville Hall 5, 8, 9
Hessequa sub-district Melkhoutfontein Satellite Clinic 7
Hessequa sub-district Still Bay Civic Centre 5, 6, 8, 9
Hessequa sub-district Slangrivier Satellite Clinic 5 ,9
Hessequa sub-district Witsand de Duine Hall 8
Hessequa sub-district Gouritsmond Hall 6
Kannaland sub-district Ladismith DRC Church Hall 5
Kannaland sub-district Zoar Sports Club 7
Kannaland sub-district Calitzdorp DRC Church Hall 8,9
Kannaland sub-district Van Wyksdorp Kerksaal 6
Mossel Bay sub-district Alma Community Day Centre 5 – 9 July
Mossel Bay sub-district Wolwedans Community Hall 5 – 9 July
Mossel Bay sub-district Hartenbos NG Kerksaal outreach 6
Mossel Bay sub-district Mossel Bay Town Hall 5 – 9 July
Mossel Bay sub-district Rheebok outreach 5
Mossel Bay sub-district D’Almeida Community Hall 5 – 9 July
Oudtshoorn sub-district Toekomsrust Community Hall 5 – 9 July
Oudtshoorn sub-district Dysselsdorp Clinic 6
Oudtshoorn sub-district De Rust (Blommenek) Clinic 8
Oudtshoorn sub-district Oudtshoorn Clinic 5 – 9 July

Disclaimer: Dates and sites are subject to change.

ENDS

Nadia Ferreira

Principal Communications Officer

Garden Route and Central Karoo Districts

Western Cape Government Health

Email: Nadia.Ferreira@westerncape.gov.za

Website: www.westerncape.gov.za

2 July 2021 Media Release: Covid-19 Vaccines for over 50-year age group

Media Release: Covid-19 Vaccines for over 50-year age group

For Immediate Release
2 July 2021

As of 1 July 2021, the registration for COVID vaccination has opened on the EVDS for people over the age of 50 years. This is a positive step in our efforts to provide vaccine coverage to our population in the Western Cape.

The EVDS system is accepting registrations and is allocating appointments for the people over 50 years to be vaccinated. The SMS appointment notifications to people over the age of 50 years who have successfully registered, will commence on Friday, 2nd July to allow for scheduled appointments as from Monday, 5th July. Thus over 50-year-olds with valid appointments will be accepted at our vaccination sites.

As from Monday, 5th July, the EVDS system will allocate available appointment slots in the following order of priority:

Priority 1 – people 60 years and older requiring their 1st dose of Pfizer vaccine;

Priority 2 – people 60 years and older who are eligible for their 2nd dose of Pfizer vaccine (approximately 42 days after their 1st dose);

Priority 3 – people aged 50 -59 years requiring their 1st dose of Pfizer vaccine.

As usual, a limited numbers of walk-ins will be accommodated at the vaccination sites. The number of walk-ins depend on the available capacity and vaccine doses available at each individual site.

Although the over-50 age band is open, the Department remains committed to ensure we prioritise our most vulnerable. Thus people 60 years and older will be prioritised in the walk-in queues over people who are aged 50 -59 years.

Call for 60-years and older:

We urge any citizen 60 years and older who has not registered, or have not received an appointment, to please present to their closest public sector vaccination site for assisted registration and vaccination.  The first dose for 60-year and older remains the highest priority at the moment.

Safety first:

The country is currently in an established 3rd wave of COVID infections, and it is crucial that over-crowding be avoided at vaccination sites and that social distancing and mask wearing be strictly adhered to. Please adhere to local site protocols and staff directions for safety.

We thank the public for the co-operation and patience. Let’s work together to roll out the vaccines safely, efficiently and in a fair and dignified manner for all our citizens. Please watch your local media for more details or visit https://coronavirus.westerncape.gov.za/vaccine/

Issued: Western Cape Department of Health

ENDS

25 June 2021 Media Release: Increased vaccine allocation to Rural areas

Media Release: release: Increased vaccine allocation to Rural areas

For Immediate Release
25 June 2021

Increased vaccine allocation to Rural areas

The Garden Route district will receive a larger vaccine allocation as from next week.  The increased vaccine allocation will address the slow roll-out experienced to date, due to limited vaccine supply from National Government.

With the increased allocation of vaccines we will be able to open more appointment slots at our vaccination sites and therefore vaccinate more people. We understand the frustration and anxiety experienced at large to be vaccinated,  especially with increasing COVID-19 cases in our District.

“We are pleased to confirm that the Garden Route district is earmarked to receive an additional 7948 doses on top of the confirmed 12 157 that we expect to receive for the week 28 June – 2 July. This is significantly more vaccines compared to our allocation for the past 2 weeks”, said District Director, Mr Zee Brickles.

Updated testing criteria

We have revised our testing criteria and the following categories will be eligible for COVID-19 testing.

All those with coronavirus symptoms AND at least 1 of the following:

  • Needing hospital admission.
  • At high risk of severe disease (age > 45 years, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, cancer, tuberculosis, HIV).
  • clusters in group settings such as old age/care homes, hospitals, schools, workplaces, hostels, prisons, etc.
  • health care workers.

Hospital Visitations

Allowing patients to be visited by their loved ones during their stay in hospital is an essential part of their recovery and wellness. Having an escort present during a visit to an emergency unit and an outpatient clinic, is reassuring for many patients and essential for other patients such as young children. Similarly, the pain and anxiety of labour can be eased by having a partner present. Despite the benefits of having visitors and escorts, the increased risk of spreading COVID-19 infection during the high prevalence of a third wave, outweighs the benefits of having loved ones present, and hence visitors and escorts have to be severely restricted.

Western Cape Government Health can confirm that the visitation policy at public hospitals was amended on 21 June to accommodate the changes in alert levels in the Covid-19 pandemic in the province. The restrictions on visitors and escorts, are aimed at ensuring that our patients, families, visitors and staff are protected against transmission during the third wave. Depending on the nature of the service of particular facilities, specific arrangements have been put in place. Should you or a family member need to visit a hospital, please establish which specific arrangements are in place at that facility. We urge the public to please respect these new arrangements. Although we know it is challenging for many visitors and patients we must be responsible and protect one another.

Keep your bubbles small

Now is not the time to socially interact with people outside of your immediate family bubble (those living in the same household). The more interactions you and your immediate family members have outside of your immediate family bubble, the greater the risk of contracting COVID-19 and spreading it to others. If you have to meet someone do so outdoors or indoors where there is good ventilation. Remember to always wear your mask when in public.

Vaccination sites 28 June – 2 July.

SUB-DISTRICT Town Dates 28 – 2 July
Knysna sub-district Knysna CDC 30, 1, 2
Knysna sub-district Knysna Town Hall 30, 1, 2
Knysna sub-district Sedgefield Clinic 1, 2
Knysna sub-district Keurhoek Satellite Clinic 2
Bitou sub-district Plettenberg Bay Clinic 29,30 1, 2
Bitou sub-district Kranshoek clinic 01-Jul
Bitou sub-district Kwanokuthula CDC 30, 2
Bitou sub-district Crags Clinic 29
George sub-district Harry Comay TB Hospital 28 June – 2 July
George sub-district Thembalethu CDC (Sandkraal road) 28 June – 2 July
George sub-district George Central Clinic 28 June – 2 July
George sub-district Uniondale Hospital 28 June – 2 July
George sub-district George & Herald Mobile Routes 28 June – 2 July
George sub-district Touwsranten Clinic 2
George sub-district Pacaltsdorp Clinic 1,2
Hessequa sub-district Riversdale Civic Centre 29 June – 2 July
Hessequa sub-district Heidelberg Duivenhoks Hall 29, 30, 2
Hessequa sub-district Albertinia Theronsville Hall 1 , 2
Hessequa sub-district Melkhoutfontein Satellite Clinic 30
Hessequa sub-district Still Bay Civic Centre 29, 1 , 2
Hessequa sub-district Slangrivier Satellite Clinic 2
Hessequa sub-district Witsand de Duine Hall 30
Hessequa sub-district Gouritsmond Hall 30
Kannaland sub-district Ladismith DRC Church Hall 29
Kannaland sub-district Zoar Sports Club 30
Kannaland sub-district Calitzdorp DRC Church Hall 1, 2
Mossel Bay sub-district Alma CDC 29, 30, 1, 2
Mossel Bay sub-district Wolwedans Community Hall 30, 2
Mossel Bay sub-district Friemersheim outreach 1
Mossel Bay sub-district Mossel Bay Town Hall 29, 30
Mossel Bay sub-district Rheebok outreach 30
Mossel Bay sub-district Bosbou & Brandwag outreach 29
Mossel Bay sub-district D’Almeida Community Hall 29, 30
Oudtshoorn sub-district Toekomsrust Community Hall 29 June – 2 July
Oudtshoorn sub-district Dysselsdorp Clinic 29
Oudtshoorn sub-district De Rust (Blommenek) Clinic 1

 

ENDS

 

Nadia Ferreira

Principal Communications Officer

Garden Route and Central Karoo Districts

Western Cape Government Health

Email: Nadia.Ferreira@westerncape.gov.za

Website: www.westerncape.gov.za

21 June 2021 Media Release: Garden Route COVID Update

Media Release: Garden Route COVID Update

For Immediate Release
21 June 2021

The Garden Route District has seen a 105 % increase in cases the last 7 days compared to 7 – 14 days ago.  All sub-districts had large percentage increases.

None of our district hospitals are currently under pressure, but we are seeing an increase in admissions.

George Hospital is not under pressure, but has had a big increase in admissions. Harry Comay Hospital is commissioning a 20-bed Covid ward to provide support for step-down patients from George Hospital.

COVID-19 stats as of 21 June 2021

Sub-district Total Active Recovered Died
Bitou 2917 74 2 742 101
George 12835 526 11 851 458
Hessequa 2088 80 1 900 108
Kannaland 924 11 867 46
Knysna 5015 105 4 750 160
Mossel Bay 8237 543 7 476 218
Oudtshoorn 4281 81 3 900 300
TOTAL 36297 1420 33 486 1 391

What follows a social gathering

Without being aware of it you may have picked up the virus after spending time with friends and family. As you then return home, back to work, back to school, or visit an elderly and vulnerable person – all these people who you have come into contact are now also at risk of being infected. They in turn continue with their daily routine – return back to their primary environment which could be there homes or workplace.

Here they then can pass on the virus to their household members. And so the transmission chain continues to grow, and spreads faster.

We can avoid a transmission chain from setting in by protecting our air space. We need to break the chain of transmission – here is how:

  • Avoid large gatherings;
  • Also, avoid social gatherings which are outside your immediate household;
  • If you need to go out, always wear your mask;
  • If you need to meet up, keep it outdoors, small and short;
  • When gathering indoors, dress warmly and ensure the windows are open so your space is well ventilated with fresh air;
  • If sick, stay home

 Vaccination roll-out

A total of 26 878 vaccines have been administered since the start of the vaccine program. This includes healthcare workers, old age homes and public sites.

 Over the last few weeks, we have come across several misconceptions about being vaccinated. We would like to remind the public that the vaccine gives great protection against severe illness and death.

However, it does not offer a guarantee that you will not contract (or transmit) Covid-19. So even if you have been vaccinated, and do not practice the necessary safety measures, you can still contract the virus, albeit a mild disease. It is therefore crucially important that we continue to adhere to the golden rules of keeping safe as set out above.

 The following sites in the Garden Route District will administer vaccinations on the following days for week 21 – 25 June.

Knysna sub-district Knysna CDC 23, 24
Knysna sub-district Knysna Town Hall 25
Knysna sub-district Karatara Satellite Clinic 21
Bitou sub-district Plettenberg Bay Clinic 25
Bitou sub-district Kranshoek clinic 22
Bitou sub-district Kwanokuthula CDC 24
Bitou sub-district Crags Clinic 23
George sub-district Harry Comay TB Hospital 21 – 25
George sub-district Thembalethu CDC (Sandkraal road) 21 – 25
George sub-district George Central Clinic 21 – 25
George sub-district Uniondale Hospital 21 – 25
George sub-district George Mobile Routes 21 – 25
George sub-district Touwsranten Clinic 25
George sub-district Pacaltsdorp Clinic 24, 25
Hessequa sub-district Riversdale Civic Centre 23,24
Hessequa sub-district Heidelberg Duivenhoks Hall 23
Hessequa sub-district Albertinia Theronsville Hall 24
Hessequa sub-district Melkhoutfontein Satellite Clinic 23
Hessequa sub-district Still Bay Civic Centre 24, 25
Hessequa sub-district Slangrivier Satellite Clinic 25
Hessequa sub-district Gouritsmond Hall 23
Kannaland sub-district Zoar Sports Club 23
Kannaland sub-district Calitzdorp DRC Church Hall 24
Kannaland sub-district Van Wyksdorp Kerksaal 25
Mossel Bay sub-district Alma CDC 21, 22, 23
Mossel Bay sub-district Wolwedans Community Hall 23, 25
Mossel Bay sub-district Mossel Bay Town Hall 21, 22,23
Mossel Bay sub-district D’Almeida Community Hall 21, 22,23
Oudtshoorn sub-district Toekomsrust Community Hall 23, 24, 25
Oudtshoorn sub-district De Rust (Blommenek) Clinic 24

Please remember that we prioritise those who are registered and have received their appointment.

Disclaimer: Dates and sites are subject to change.

ENDS

Nadia Ferreira
Principal Communications Officer
Garden Route and Central Karoo Districts
Western Cape Government Health
Town Clinic, Plettenberg Bay
Tel: 044 813 1831
Email: Nadia.Ferreira@westerncape.gov.za 
Website: www.westerncape.gov.za