Matt James, 37, of Durban said: “I think getting vaccinated is the right thing to do. I agree with mandatory vaccines to a certain extent.
“Vaccinations are a healthy precedent to set. I am, however, nervous when government takes control of medical bodies. What else can government then make mandatory? Getting vaccinated for certain spaces or industries makes sense.”
Lameez Khan, from Morningside, said: “I disagree with mandatory vaccination because in a country which prides itself on freedom of speech and human rights, why should this be a necessity?
“I’ve been a diabetic for 18 years. I had Covid-19 in the past three months. People I know got vaccinated, got Covid and died.
“There is too little evidence (on the vaccine), especially now with the new variants popping up. What is it going to be?
“For those who do not want to get vaccinated, the government is making it difficult for us to enter malls and travel or find new jobs.
“I find this an infringement of human rights. I should be able to decide what I want for myself.”
Haseena Dasoo, 45, from Overport, said: “I am opposed to the concept of a mandatory vaccine based on the fact that there is no proven vaccination formula to stop a person from becoming infected with the virus.
“The companies that are producing these vaccines do not take liability for any injuries that might arise after one is jabbed. The government should not force people to vaccinate.
“I have heard people suffering from side-effects. Some have died. How many mutations of the vaccine have they found? How many booster shots must we take in the years to come and when more variants are found?
“The government is trampling on our rights. Furthermore, businesses cannot force staff to vaccinate and then also threaten to fire them if they refuse. Some companies are making irrational statements.”
Joanne Ryan, 46, Newlands East, said: “I am a Covid-19 survivor. I took two vaccines. I feel one has to deal with Covid-19 with their minds.
“I encourage people to have the correct mindset. If you do get your doses, eat healthily, boost your immune system and keep fit. It’s a psychological issue. If you allow Covid-19 to get hold of you, then you become ill. Be a fighter.
“It (vaccine) should be made mandatory, depending on your occupation. For example, if you are in contact with children at schools, you have to be vaccinated.
“There are certain religious practices that are against vaccines. This is wrong. It is all about self-belief.”
Dhayalan Moodley, 72, Chatsworth, said: “People should take the vaccine irrespective of religion and nonsensical beliefs that there are sinister plots behind it. False propaganda is confusing people. The government should be stricter when enforcing the vaccination drive. It should be compulsory.
“I know many people who have taken the vaccine and are living normal lives. It can save you from hospitalisation if you do contract the virus. All companies should enforce it upon staff. I had no side effects. Vaccination campaigns and information surrounding it are becoming politicised.”
Jeenesh Lalz, 48, from Phoenix, said: “The efficacy of the vaccine has proven itself, it is some hope against an otherwise very formidable adversary.
“I support the idea of mandatory vaccines and I also feel that only people who have been vaccinated should be allowed in public spaces.
“I would also encourage for there to be easier and more convenient testing and vaccination sites.”
DAILY NEWS