SAMA calls for intensive COVID-19 vaccination campaign

The State of Disaster may have been lifted, but the South African Medical Association (SAMA) says government’s vaccination campaign for COVID-19 needs to be intensified.

President Cyril Ramaphosa declared an end of the State of Disaster earlier in the week, but there is a set of proposed regulations meant to replace it. Some of the regulations include people providing proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test not older than 72 hours, when coming to gatherings which will only allow 50% capacity.

SAMA has welcomed the end of the State of Disaster, saying it is a positive step in government’s response to the pandemic.

“SAMA supports the decision in the same way that it supported the decision to institute the NSD as a means to deal with the impact of COVID-19 at the beginning of the pandemic,” SAMA CEO, Dr Vusumuzi Nhlapho, said in a statement.

The COVID-19 pandemic has burdened the health sector, something which Nhlapo noted.

SAMA TO WEIGH IN ON PROPOSED REGULATIONS

Members of the public now have until 16 April to comment on the proposed regulations meant to replace the State of Disaster and the South African Medical Association (SAMA) also intends weighing in.

“SAMA will therefore make a submission on the draft new health regulations before 16 April, with a view to strengthen government’s response to public health challenges and ultimately improve patient care throughout the country.”

SAMA CEO, Dr Vusumuzi Nhlapho

Meanwhile the Ministerial Advisory Committee on COVID-19 will also be assisting the Department of Health in reviewing some of the regulations.