#Budget2021: Government allocates R10bn for vaccines
Finance Minister Tito Mboweni has announced that government is allocating more than R10 billion for the purchase and delivery of vaccines over the next two years.
Two variants of the coronavirus have combined to form ‘Frankenvirus’ – report
An investigation by scientists in the United States revealed two variants of the coronavirus have combined to create a ‘heavily mutated hybrid.’
#Covid-19: AstraZeneca vaccine rollout halted in South Africa
South Africa’s government has decided to stop the planned rollout of the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vacccine after clinical trials found it is not as effective as hoped against the new variant reported in the country.
‘I am and I will’—#WorldCancerDay campaign is a call to action during the pandemic
The theme for World Cancer Day on 4 February is “I am and I will”—encapsulating the spirit and strength of the cancer community in South Africa and around the world.
Breaking News – First Covid-19 vaccines arrive in South Africa
South Africa’s first consignment of the AstraZeneca vaccine has arrived in the country with President Cyril Ramaphosa on hand.
Wits University trial Covid-19 vaccine only 49.4% effective
The Novavax vaccine proves to be only 49.4% effective against Covid-19. The vaccine is undergoing trials in both South Africa and the United Kingdom.
#JusticeforShoni: Health ombudsman finds ‘Substandard, negligent and appalling’ treatment reported at Tembisa Hospital
Following an investigation into alleged mistreatment of Shonisani Lethole at Tembisa Hospital, the health ombudsman finds ‘appalling’ treatment and alleged attempts to cover-up evidence.
‘Degrading, humiliating, distressing’ – report finds medical schemes racially profiled black doctors
‘Degrading, humiliating, and distressing’ – Section 59 investigation finds medical schemes racially profiled black health practitioners. The findings of investigation stemming from allegations from black doctors were released this week, despite attempts to block in in court.
New Covid-19 variant could mean reinfection – even after recovery
A global study of the new coronavirus variant, 501Y.V2, shows that the virus may be resistant to existing vaccines. As scientists warn of increased infections due to the variant, South Africa records hospital admissions doubling in second wave, while the coronavirus also transmits much faster.
Cyberattackers increasingly target healthcare and South Africa is not immune
Ransomware attacks are on the increase globally as criminals exploit gaps in hospital software security as well as IT weaknesses.
Vaccine good news as South Africa grapples with record Covid-19 infections
Government appeals to calm as Covid-19 infections pass 20 000 in 24 hours. The country has logged over 800 daily Coronavirus deaths for the first time since the outbreak, while new cases also hit a record high. Still, a vaccine announcement could bring hope.
Here’s what you need to know about government’s Covid-19 vaccine rollout strategy
Government’s planned roll-out of critical vaccines to combat the Covid-19 pandemic will see high-risk patients and health workers first in the queue.
South African generic drug producer Aspen signs Covid-19 vaccine deal
South African drug producer, Aspen Pharmacare, has signed a deal with global pharma giant Johnson&Johnson to produce a Covid-19 vaccine once it’s available.