Government, researchers and health professionals tackle anti-vaccination views
With government rolling out the Johnson & Johnson vaccine as part of its COVID-19 vaccination strategy, the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, will host a virtual seminar on Wednesday, 24 February, to dispel myths about vaccines and variants.
The webinar brings scientists, researchers and health professionals together to discuss the latest developments in the fight against COVID-19, and to help address vaccine hesitancy, which could pose a serious risk to health efforts. The seminar will also discuss variants that have emerged since the outbreak a year ago.
Speakers at the event will include Dr Morena Makhoana, the CEO of local vaccine manufacturer Biovac, and Prof. Jeffrey Mphahlele, Vice President of Research at the South African Medical Research Council and member of the Ministerial Advisory Committee on Vaccines. Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala, University of Johannesburg Vice-Chancellor, will address the conspiracy theory that 5G has enabled the spread of COVID-19.
South Africa, through the Department of Science and Innovation, has over the years invested in infrastructure that has enabled world-class research in genomics, epidemiology and vaccine manufacturing, among other areas. The Department has also invested in human capital development initiatives to ensure a pipeline of knowledge workers to advance the country's scientific endeavours.
The return on investment is now being realised, as the country's researchers and scientists assist in local efforts to fight the pandemic and contribute to the global body of knowledge on COVID-19.
Event details:
Date: 24 February 2021
Time: 12h00 to 14h00
Platform: Zoom
Register/RSVP using the link below:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_6joqWeItStKYmoRnkJhiag
For media enquiries, please contac:
Veronica Mohapeloa
Cell: 083 4005 750
Thabang Setlhare
Cell: 072 659 9690
