On October 9th, the official South African Covid-19 Vaccine Certificate System portal was launched by Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla. And since then, the Department of Health has started issuing Vaccination Certificates to fully vaccinated adults.
The certificate can allow various activities again
The system allows users to create a QR code that sows their Covid-19 inoculation status. This code will only be available to individuals who are fully vaccinated.
The digital pass system can now be used to show vaccination status to facilitate travel, access to establishments, gatherings and other forms of activities.
Phaahla told journalists last week that the certificate could be used for travel and tourism, sport and recreation events, music festivals, shops that are providing discounts and prizes for people who are vaccinated.
According to President Ramaphosa, the government’s approach was informed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines. He also believes that these certificates could help to ease international travel restrictions both from and into SA.
Minister Phaahla, also confirmed that “there is still going to be more improvements in the next two months with regards to the safety and security of the certificate”.
The departments answers FAQ
The department of Health has taken time to answer some frequently asked questions regarding the Vaccination Certificate.
For instance, one of the questions includes “What are Jansen and Comirnaty?”
According to the department, the name of the vaccine is published on the Covid-19 Vaccination Certificate and not the manufacturer. Johnson and Johnson is the manufacturer of the Janssen vaccine, while Pfizer is the manufacturer of the Comirnaty vaccine.
For more questions and answers: All your questions about the COVID-19 Vaccine Certificate answered