With the flu season in full swing the public is advised that City of Cape Town facilities do have vaccines available for vulnerable groups, in line with policies governing the public sector.
City Health took delivery of 18 500 flu vaccines at the beginning of May.
- health-care workers
- people 65 and older
- people with cardiovascular disease (including chronic heart disease, hypertension, stroke and diabetes)
- those with chronic lung disease (including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and tuberculosis)
- individuals living with HIV/Aids
- pregnant women
“Flu has been a hot topic in recent months,” said Mayoral Committee member for Community Services and Health Councillor Patricia van der Ross. “While most people can bounce back fairly quickly from a bout of flu it does hold potentially serious complications for older people or those with pre-existing conditions. So if you are in one of the qualifying groups, please present to your nearest clinic as soon as possible, to get your vaccination before stocks run out. We do have to remind the public that, just like any other vaccine, the flu vaccine will not prevent you from getting flu, but will likely ensure a far milder episode should you contract the virus.”
Flu vaccines are available free of charge at City clinics.
