Gauteng Reports of Rapid Rise in New COVID-19 Infections, Warns Fourth Wave Imminent
The Gauteng Provincial Government says it is experiencing a rapid rise in new COVID-19 infections.
The province says the number of cases this week are four times higher than the previous weeks, pointing to an eminent fourth wave.
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) on Thursday confirmed that a new variant of the Coronavirus called B.1.1.529 has emerged in South African with 22 cases report.
The new variant has also been detected in Botswana and Hong Kong.
The Gauteng Provincial Government has urged residents to get vaccinated.
“As the fourth wave is approaching it is important for those who are unvaccinated to get their jabs to protect themselves from severe illness, hospitalisation or death in the event that they contract the coronavirus. Let us continue practising safety measures such as wearing a mask, maintaining a safe physical distance, washing hands regularly with soap and water, and ensuring good ventilation.”
Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa will convene the National Coronavirus Command Council (NCCC) on Sunday, to assess developments in the COVID-19 pandemic, including scientific updates around the newly detected coronavirus variant.
