Phaahla : Govt discussing possibility of mandatory vaccinations
Health Minister Joe Phaahla says government is discussing the possibility of introducing mandatory vaccinations in South Africa.
Phaahla briefed the media on Friday morning on the government's efforts in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic and the national rollout of vaccines.
He said the issue has been raised in several quarters.
“A suggestion has been made by various influential people in society that we should consider mandatory vaccination policy. We are discussing this at various forums and considering options. We have noted discussions taking place about a possible J&J booster.
“This matter has been referred to our Vaccines MAC to look at. Our priority is to make sure that all adult South Africans who are willing get vaccinated first only then can we consider other suggestions.”
He said while no official determination has been made, it is possible for some workplaces or service providers to require mandatory inoculations.
“We are discussing under what conditions this might be possible, so it is not something that has been decided yet. But my own view, in terms of what is possible, is that we don’t foresee a kind of national government regulation which says everybody must vaccinate. We wouldn’t really want to go that route.
“But what is possible and what we would consider is where service providers, places of entertainment, workplaces require mandatory vaccine to protect everyone. We believe that is what could be done.”
#Covid19SA | Phaahla says the department is discussing the conditions under which mandatory vaccination will be possible.
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) August 27, 2021
No decision has been made. pic.twitter.com/7t95AVwL3a
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