South Africa maintains strict COVID lockdown for festive season

The South African government has called on people to adhere to the COVID-19 protocols while they maintain level-one COVID-19 lockdowns.

Health Minister Joe Phaahla said the National Coronavirus Command Council agreed to retain the country at level one while it monitors the situation. Last year, the country was also on strict COVID-19 restrictions during the festive season.

"We call upon all travellers, especially those who are unvaccinated or partly vaccinated. coming from areas declared hotspots, to get vaccinated before hitting the roads," Phaahla said. "This will protect their families and friends during this period, which is associated with large social gatherings like parties and weddings. They are 'super spreader' events that carry a huge risk of transmitting the virus."

South Africa recorded a positivity rate of nearly 31 percent, with 24,785 new COVID-19 cases and 36 COVID-19 related deaths on Thursday. The country is in the fourth wave, which is driven by the Omicron variant. Phaahla called on South Africans to be vaccinated at pop-up sites in public places like malls, open community sporting-based venues and roadblocks.

Police Minister Bheki Cele said authorities would be on high alert to ensure that holiday makers and tourists are safe. He urged many visiting the coastal cities and holiday resorts to be responsible and observe safety precautions.

Cele said police would be on high alert and mount roadblocks to ensure compliance with the law.

South Africa has recorded more than 90,000 deaths due to COVID-19 and has more than 3 million confirmed cases. It also has a curfew from 11 pm until 4 pm. A possibility exists that the government would adjust and introduce measures to curb COVID-19 when new cases surge.