Fully vaccinated 4,3 times less likely to die from Covid

GARDEN ROUTE | KAROO NEWS - Covid-19 third wave health data pertaining to people of 50 years and older show that those who have been vaccinated for less than 21 days after their first dose are already 1,4 times less likely to die than those unvaccinated.

Those who have been vaccinated for more than 21 days after their first dose or who are approaching their second vaccine are 1,9 times less likely to die than those unvaccinated, and those who are fully vaccinated are 4,3 times less likely to die than those unvaccinated.

This is based on data of the Western Cape Health Department that was shared at its weekly digicon on Thursday 7 October.

The statistics also show that 50 plussers were 7,5 times more likely to die of Covid-19.

Premier Alan Winde said the Western Cape continues to analyse its data to better understand the risks that Covid-19 presents, as well as the effectiveness that vaccines provide. "Sharing this information with the public enables residents to better understand the benefits that vaccination brings, especially for those in high-risk categories."

The figures also show that men were 1,4 times more likely to die of Covid than women, and those who have comorbidities have an increased chance of dying, and that comorbidities are more common among those 50 years and older.

"This is why every person who is over 50 years should act quickly so that they get this important protection. While the vaccine does not offer 100% protection, it does provide significantly more protection than not being vaccinated at all," said Winde.

To date, only 52% of those in this high-risk age group has been fully vaccinated and 9% partially vaccinated.

Winde said it means that there is still a significant number of people who can get infected and end up in a hospital and die during a fourth wave. He urged residents, especially those older than 50, to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

The risk factors show that even those partially vaccinated enjoy some protection against death from Covid-19 related complications.