North West applauds nurses for dedication during COVID-19

International Nurses' Day is celebrated annually on 12 May on the anniversary of the founder of modern-day nursing, Florence Nightingale's birthday.

North West Health MEC Madoda Sambatha has expressed appreciation to nurses for their dedication and commitment during the COVID-19 pandemic, as the province celebrates International Nurses' Day.

“It is only when our nurses in all our facilities across the province continue with their commitment to fight this pandemic and care for our people that we will eventually win this battle,” the MEC said on Wednesday.

International Nurses' Day is celebrated annually on 12 May on the anniversary of the founder of modern-day nursing, Florence Nightingale's birthday.

The MEC said the role of nurses in health care is irreplaceable and nurses should be celebrated in recognition of their value in the health care chain and in society generally.

“As the largest health care profession in the world, nursing is often the only health profession that services all the people, both the poor and the rich. Therefore, nurses are particularly well placed and often the most innovative in reaching underserved and disadvantaged populations. The role of nurses has emerged as essential in the entire health system,” the North West Department of Health said.

The MEC has called on all the nurses who have registered for COVID-19 vaccination to come forward and be vaccinated.

“Nurses are our front-liners and more at risk for COVID-19 than any other category. That is why we prioritised them for Phase 1 vaccination. All nurses who registered to vaccinate, should urgently come forward to take their jab and those who are yet to register should do so as we seek to conclude Phase 1 of vaccination,” Sambatha said. 

(With Inputs from South African Government Press Release)