Recommendations for athletes and COVID-19 vaccinations: A South African Sports Medicine Association (SASMA) position statement – Part 3

Lervasen Pillay,Robin Saggers,Jon Patricios,Dina Christina Janse Van Rensburg ,Craig Thompson ,Pierre L. Viviers ,Sharief Hendricks,Dimakatso Ramagole

doi:10.17159/2078-516x/2021/v33i1a12557

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic initially led to the shutdown of all sport at a high cost to both the economy and athlete health. As risk-mitigating protocols evolved and were implemented, the playing of sport returned slowly to normal. The introduction of COVID-19 vaccinations enhances the means of protection and risk management for all. This South African Sports Medicine Association position statement provides recommendations for the vaccination of athletes.

Highlights

POSITION STATEMENTRecommendations for athletes and COVID-19 vaccinations: A South African Sports Medicine Association (SASMA) position statement – Part 3
The COVID-19 pandemic initially led to the shutdown of all sport at a high cost to both the economy and athlete health
On 31 December 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) validated the first COVID-19 vaccination – an mRNA vaccine that was subsequently approved for emergency use.[5]

Summary

POSITION STATEMENT

Recommendations for athletes and COVID-19 vaccinations: A South African Sports Medicine Association (SASMA) position statement – Part 3. The introduction of COVID-19 vaccinations enhances the means of protection and risk management for all This South African Sports Medicine Association position statement provides recommendations for the vaccination of athletes. As our understanding of COVID19 transmission advanced, and to reduce any further negative effects, professional sport was gradually re-introduced under highly controlled environments. These environments were termed ‘bio-secure environments’ (BSE) or bio-bubbles. If all team members are vaccinated, the risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19 in the team environment and community is significantly reduced. Certain countries may still require proof of a negative COVID19 Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test to avoid quarantining in that country.[9]

Vaccination rollout in South Africa

Recommendations for the vaccination of athletes

Recombinant protein

Considerations for special populations

Conclusion