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The South African Medical Association had applauded the National Department of Health, and Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize, on the acquisition of 1.5 million doses of coronavirus vaccines.
Dr Mkhize said on Thursday that the acquisition of the Astra Zeneca vaccine from the Serum Institute of India (SII) would arrive in two batches: one million doses would arrive in January, and another 500 000 in February.
These would be used to vaccinate the approximately 1.25 million healthcare workers in the public and private sectors.
"We are naturally thrilled at this news and urge all our members - and all healthcare workers across the country - to participate in its roll-out and to protect themselves against COVID-19," said SAMA chairperson, Dr Angelique Coetzee.
She said every single person in South Africa must be vaccinated against coronavirus and it's critical that frontline healthcare workers who are assisting others receive it urgently.
Dr Coetzee also welcomed Mkhize's announcement that the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority will be "applying reliance" on the regulatory work done in other countries which have already approved the Astra Zeneca drug in a bid to expedite the process.
"This is a big step in the right direction and is to be welcomed. While this process is unfolding, it is now necessary that further vaccines are procured to ensure every person in the country is vaccinated and protected," said Dr Coetzee.
She said the SA Medical Association would engage with the National Department of Health and other role players to ensure the effective roll-out of the vaccine, particularly to private sector healthcare workers.
