2022-05-18

As we transition into winter and the anticipated third wave of COVID-19 infections, keeping our members safe and healthy is one of our key objectives. We, therefore, strongly encourage our members aged over 60 to register for the COVID-19 vaccine. Members under 60 can do their part by helping older individuals in their families and communities to register.

Register for the vaccine if you are over 60 years of age:

You can register in one of these ways:

1. Visit https://vaccine.enroll.health.gov.za/#/ and follow the prompts
2. Dial *134*832# on your cellphone and follow the prompts
3. WhatsApp the word REGISTER to 0600 123456 and follow the prompts

Make a note of your registration token

Based on your registration details, the Department of Health will issue you with your unique token when it is your turn to be vaccinated. Without this token, you won't be eligible for vaccination, so please keep it safe.

Over 3 300 sites have been identified

These are located at convenient sites countrywide including at selected Bonitas facilities. The Department of Health will allocate a vaccination site to you during the process.

If you have already registered, you will receive more details soon

This includes SMSs outlining your scheduled vaccination day, time, and site near your home or work. Remember, there are still over 700 000 healthcare workers who need to be vaccinated as a priority, so the scale-up will be gradual over the next one to two weeks. Please do not go to a site before you are invited to do so via SMS.

Vaccinating many people as soon as possible is critical to minimising the impact of COVID-19

Those vaccinated have a reduced chance of infection and should be protected against serious complications, which means less hospitalisations and deaths. It has not yet been established whether vaccination can stop a person from infecting other people. It is very important that you ensure you receive the full course, which could be one or two doses depending on which vaccine you receive.

Please stay safe

Continue to wear your mask, wash your hands frequently and practise social distancing to reduce your risk of contracting COVID-19. We've noted an increase in cases particularly in Gauteng, Free State and the Eastern Cape. Be sure to avoid crowds, confined spaces and close contact to prevent infection.