Ministers, deputy ministers in line for ‘vaccination of special groups’
The Department of Health has received requests to arrange vaccination for special groups including ministers, diplomats and their families.
South Africa’s vaccination rollout has initially focused on priority groups starting with healthcare workers, elders over 60, teachers and police.
The latest data shows that the country has administered some 3.5 million vaccines.
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In a circular, signed by the department’s deputy director-general, Dr Nicholas Crisp, it says special consideration will be made for special groups and individuals who are currently ineligible.
“The following individuals and groups will be considered eligible for vaccination outside of the vaccine roll-out eligibility criteria. Ministers, deputy ministers, premiers and MECs, as well their direct staff.
“Individuals where vaccination is requested by the presidency, the Minister of Health or the Director-General of Health. South African diplomats and their families who are posted overseas (during visits to South Africa) and individuals who need to travel outside of South Africa,” the circular said.
Travel for business or work-related travel, study, sports and accessing medical care will be considered.
READ: Time running out for education staff to get jabbed
Crisp says embassy staff based in South Africa, as well as individuals working for United Nations and other international agencies, will be vaccinated in line with the National Vaccination programme eligibility criteria.
“However, these individuals will receive priority, and their vaccination will be expedited.All requests should be approved by a senior manager."
