The world has finally seen the roll-out of the anticipated Covid-19 vaccine.
The South African Government is working to make sure that 67 percent of the population will be vaccinated by the end of the year. In other words, in a period of nine months the government expects to procure, distribute and arrange for 40 million citizens to be vaccinated.
With a lot of conspiracy theories going surrounding the vaccine, many are either against taking the vaccine or either waiting to see what happens to others who get the vaccine first.
Former Newcastle resident and Netcare 911 frontline worker, Angelique Campher spoke to the Newcastle Express from Johannesburg where she has lived since 2018 about her experience on getting the jab.
“I was extremely nervous while waiting to be vaccinated. At the same time we have seen first-hand what happens to patients and friends and family who have passed away from Covid-19,” said Campher.
“I do know a lot of people who are afraid to get the vaccine. For us it was an easy decision, especially when you see healthy friends and family succumb to the virus,” she said. Fortunately for her, there were no negatives in getting the shot. “I had a completely normal 24-hour period after receiving the vaccine. I was fortunate enough not to experience any side effects. Getting the injection was not as painful as what people think it is,” she said. Being a frontliner has also made her more appreciative of life. “I appreciate the length that Netcare has gone to try and protect us as well as the level of support that they have shown to co-workers who have contracted the virus especially during the peaks. It is emotionally and physically exhausting,” she said.
She said that a person has a right to decide if they want the vaccine or not. “I have chosen to be vaccinated because I have seen first-hand what has happened and the suffering of Covid-19 patients,” she said.
