103-year-old among elderly group registered for vaccine in Delft

Western Cape Government Health Minister Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, nurses and community healthcare workers registered elderly community members in Delft on 10 May 2021 ahead of the phase two vaccine rollout programme.

Among the group was 103-year-old Nosayinete Cetyiwe from the Delft South community, who joined at least 29 other elderly community members to sign up for their jab at the Masimanyane for Aged, Disabled and Child Educare Centre.

Minister Mbombo and community healthcare workers assisted Margaret Tontsi, aged 64, and others with their registration on EVDS. Ms Tontsi says she has decided to take the vaccine as she doesn’t want to become seriously ill.

“I am afraid of the Coronavirus. I have heard from people who have taken the injection (vaccine) and they’ve said it will protect them from becoming very ill. I have seen what COVID-19 has done to our communities. I was sad. But I am happy that myself and nobody in my family has contracted the virus, not even flu. So, I will take the injection to keep safe.”

Secretary of the Delft Seniors’ Forum Jessica Daniels, who is a 63-year-old resident from Delft, joined elderly community members who registered for vaccination. Ms Daniels says she’s heard many negative stories about the vaccine but has faith.

“I am taking this vaccine. It’s something good and I think it’s here to help us. I have heard stories about the vaccine and how it won’t work, but I know it can help us. In my opinion, whatever happens will happen. I am going to pray and have faith that this will protect me and my family.”

Minister Mbombo has encouraged the public to support the elderly as the awareness drive continues.

“As we move closer to the rollout of phase two of the Covid-19 vaccinations, it’s important that we support and register our elderly community members. We’re calling on all our community members to help us as we continue the registration drive. Remember you can register your parents, your elderly family members and neighbours who need support. We are not safe until everyone is vaccinated, so let’s unite to vaccinate the Western Cape. As we continue to fight the virus, I appeal to you to wear your masks, keep a distance from others, wash your hands regularly and stay home when you’re sick. Together, we can overcome this pandemic.”

During the registration drive, elderly community members received care packs, which included blankets, scarves, gloves, beanies and masks. The care packs were donated from the Oceana Group and the Government of Taiwan. The elderly group often gathers at the centre which support the community and was founded by a former security guard, Ms Sibongile Mgoqi.

Ms Mgoqi has a heart for the community and welcomed the support to register the elderly.

“We provide meals here and other support to the elderly. We also assist the elderly who may have grandchildren they are caring for. We are grateful for the help to register the elderly today for the vaccine.”

Remember you can register your loved ones for vaccination at no cost by using the USSD service. Dial *134*832# from your phone. If you have internet access, send the word REGISTER to 060 012 3456 on WhatsApp or visit https://vaccine.enroll.health.gov.za/#/ to register your loved ones for vaccination.