Help people register for the COVID-19 vaccine

COVID19 News No Comments

With the first phase roll out of vaccines to our elderly nationwide it has become clear that many of our citizens struggle with the online application that the process requires. This means that they need our help to register so that they can receive the vaccine. Let’s not let anybody get left behind because they don’t have internet access or do not know how to register.

Even though you yourself might not be eligible yet, and are patiently awaiting your turn, now is your chance to be part of the vaccination process by helping people who struggle with the internet to register.

With youth month around the corner I am calling upon our senior Scouts, Rovers, Adult Leaders and Scouting parents to step up and help register someone you care about, or somebody you know, who is 60 years old or older. This person might be your mom or dad, grandmother or grandfather, or aunt or uncle. They could also be a close family friend, your next-door neighbour, or even a person you know at work or in the community.

How can you help?

  • Call or WhatsApp your loved-one, neighbour or family friend and tell them about the vaccine, why it is important, and how it protects against severe COVID-19 related illness and death.
  • If they tell you they want to get their COVID-19 vaccine, offer your help and see what they say.

Image: Department of Health

If they need your help to register:

    • Go to https://vaccine.enroll.health.gov.za/#/ and fill out the form with them. They will need to provide you their ID number, the location where they want to be vaccinated and their medical aid information – if applicable. Input this info as per the prompts on the EVDS online portal.
    • If you don’t have a data, dial *134*832#, and follow the prompts. This is free on all South African networks.
    • You can also WhatsApp the word ‘REGISTER’ to 0600 123456 if you have access to WhatsApp.
    • If you help them to fill out the form, please ensure that the cell phone number you provide for the registration is correct so that the second SMS with the appointment goes to the right person. This SMS will include a code that will be needed at the vaccination station.

NOTE: If you are going to visit the person you are helping, please remember to wear your mask, sanitise your hands and social distance as they are at high risk of serious COVID-19 illness. If possible, meet them outside, where there is good ventilation.

If they would rather fill out the form themselves:

mop logoExplain how it works and what they would need to do. You can also advise them that they can visit their nearest library and ask for help.

Be a Messenger of Peace, a good citizen and a proud Scouting member. Do your good turn, help the people in your lives register for the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible.

Not able to assist with registrations, then you can do one of the following:

  • Become a vaccine ambassador. Help create awareness for this campaign, by encouraging others to help.
  • In partnership with the Department of Health, some of our Scouting Districts will be assisting with the welcoming of senior citizens at some of the vaccination sites, as well as providing the health workers on site with sandwiches and baked goods. If you know of a vaccination center near you, please don’t hesitate to drop off a plate of treats for the health workers and volunteers at the site.
  • You could also speak to your Regional Commissioner about offering your Scout Hall to your local Department of Health as a venue for COVID-19 vaccinations. All Department of Health and SSA Covid Protocols permitting.

Yours in Scouting,
Brendon Hausberger
Chief Scout