In these uncertain times, a little good news goes a long way. So, it’s not surprising that humanity breathed a collective sigh of relief when America announced that production of the first COVID-19 vaccine was underway.

The excitement was short-lived however, when a host of distribution problems surfaced shortly after that. Then, to add insult to injury, our State President warned that the second wave was upon us and imposed restrictions on certain hotspots once again.

Now that the rumours of a second strain of COVID doing the rounds have been proven to be more than just rumours. There’s a good chance you’re starting to wonder if our troubles will ever end.

Let’s take a break from the uncertainties for a while and focus on what we do know about the COVID-19 vaccine so far:

  • Dr Blade Nzimande has announced that we can expect to see a vaccine in South Africa during the first six months of 2021.
  • The government is developing a comprehensive strategy to guide the nation towards complete COVID-19 immunity.
  • Johnson & Johnson are currently developing a vaccine that’s more suited to South African conditions.
  • The local vaccine production plant, Biovac, is being upgraded and expanded to produce vaccines for South Africa.
  • Scientists have stressed that it would take years for the virus to evolve to an extent that would make the vaccine ineffective.

The COVID Vaccine is Only One Defence

Experts across the globe have warned that while history tells us that vaccines do work, we should not see a vaccine as the be-all-and-end-all of the coronavirus pandemic. It’s only one way to fight the virus and the process of vaccinating a nation takes time. There will be a framework for who should be a priority to receive the initial vaccine with those in the healthcare sector and the elderly being prioritised.

Make Mask Wearing a Way of Life

Now is not the time to discard your mask. In fact, if anything it’s more important to mask up now than it was during the first wave in 2020. Social distancing, sanitization, and mask-wearing will be ongoing, and equally important factors in fighting a pandemic of this nature.

Across the globe, South Africans are known for their problem-solving abilities and big match temperament.

So, take a deep breath and keep going.

We will get through this together.